International student visa

[Russki]

Hi,
I'm interested in doing my training at SkyMates. However, I'm from Canada and need a student visa. On their site they only mention the M-1 student visa.

Since I would also like to have an opportunity to work as an instructor at SkyMates, I would need to get a J-1 Visa (gives permission to work as a teacher/instructor).

Does SkyMates accept students with a J-1 visa? Would they consider hiring me as an instructor after I do all my training with them? Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Russki

[kellwolf]

Skymates might, but it's doubtful that US Immigration and the TSA would. Student visas and work visas are different, and when it comes to flight training, TSA gets VERY anal. You might wind up having to get the M-1 to train, leave, and come back on a J-1. Sucks, but that's aviation for ya.

[captain]

see ruskii i think if u r Canadian resident u don't need VISA. but if u need u can jet m1 then after words convert it to j1 and work any of the flight school

[Maidar]

Ok guys...sorry...but you are both incorrect. The gentleman does need a visa issued by the school he is attending. Skymates offers an M-1 visa. You cannot transfer from an M-1 to a J-1 visa. Only the other way around. Students can work on an M-1 visa, in the field of study, on a part time basis for a limited time with INS approval. TSA has nothing to do with Visa's, but you will have to have TSA approval for Private, Instrument and Multi. The only problem with coming back on a J-1 is that the student must attend school full time in order to get permission to work part time. This also limits the amount of hours he can work.
If any one needs information regarding immigration and flight training with Skymates, you can feel free to contact me at deann@skymates.com