America L-1 Intra-Company Transfer Visa
America H-1B, H-2A, H-2B and H3 Temporary Work Visa
America O Visa (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability)
America I Visa (Journalists and Media Workers)
America P Visa (Athletes, Artists and Entertainers)
America Q-1 Cultural Exchange Program Visa
America R Visa (Religious Workers)
🇺🇸 U.S. F-1/M-1 Student and Vocational Training Visa
There are two main types of visas for Turkish citizens who wish to study in the United States: F-1 and M-1. The F-1 visa is for academic programs, while the M-1 visa is for vocational and technical training programs. Both visa types have specific requirements and documentation.
📝 Required Documents
The following documents are required for the F-1 or M-1 visa application:
- Valid Passport: A passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel completion.
- DS-160 Form: The U.S. visa application form must be completed online and in English.
- I-20 Form: The form issued by a SEVP-approved school after acceptance and approved by SEVIS.
- SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment Receipt: Proof of payment for SEVIS registration.
- Biometric Photo: A recent color photo, 5x5 cm, with a white background.
- Copy of National ID: A copy of the Turkish identity card.
- Full Family Registration Certificate: A document showing the address and family details.
- Visa Request Letter: A letter written in English, explaining the travel purpose and financial situation.
💼 Sponsor Documents
If you have a sponsor supporting your travel, the following documents must also be submitted:
- Sponsor’s Financial Documents: Bank account statements, salary slips, pension card copy, etc.
- Sponsor’s ID and Residence Documents: A copy of the national ID, proof of residence, etc.
- Sponsor’s Employment Documents: Social Security Service records, employment contract, tax certificate, etc.
📅 Application Process
The application process for the U.S. F-1/M-1 visa includes the following steps:
- Apply to an Educational Institution and Get Accepted: After being accepted by a SEVP-approved school, the school will issue an I-20 form.
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee: Once you receive the I-20 form, pay the SEVIS fee to activate the system.
- Complete the DS-160 Form: Fill out the DS-160 form online in English.
- Schedule an Appointment: Schedule a visa interview with the U.S. Consulate.
- Attend the Interview: On the scheduled date, attend the interview with the required documents including the DS-160 confirmation page.
📌 Important Notes
- Visa Duration and Work Permit: F-1 and M-1 visas are valid for the duration of the educational program. F-1 visa holders may be eligible for limited off-campus work under certain conditions, while M-1 visa holders are not allowed to work during their studies.
- Visa Denial: Even if your documents are complete and correct, your visa application may still be denied. It is recommended not to make any travel arrangements until your visa has been approved.
- Visa Fee: The visa application fee is non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
- Visa Approval: Visa approval does not guarantee entry to the U.S. Entry will be granted upon arrival by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers.
🕒 Processing Time
The processing time for U.S. F-1/M-1 visa applications may vary depending on the consulate's workload. Generally, results can be expected within 3 business days after the interview date. However, official holidays and other factors may affect this time. Therefore, it is recommended to apply at least 4 months before the start of your program.