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Flight School: Getting a Student Foreign Visa

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Non-U.S. citizens require either an M-1 student visa for flight certificates and ratings or an F-1 student visa for professional pilot programs, which uniquely allows working as a flight instructor.
  • Flight training must occur at an FAA Part 141-approved school authorized by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to issue the necessary I-20 form.
  • Key application steps include applying to an approved school, providing proof of sufficient funds for training and living expenses, and attending a visa interview at a U.S. Consulate at least 60-90 days in advance.
  • It is recommended to choose a flight academy that offers assistance and support with the visa process and acclimation to life in the U.S.
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Q: If a non-U.S. citizen wants to take flight training here in the United States, what kind of visa or visas is required? What are the rules, and what’s the best way to go about getting the appropriate visa?

**A:__ **The best answer to this came from Andre Maye, a pilot and vice president of administration for Phoenix East Aviation in Daytona Beach, Florida, who spends “many, many hours each day” working with students, Department of Homeland Security personnel and U.S. Embassies and Consulates on visas for flight training:

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