visa Requirements

Visa Requirements for International Clients
To ensure compliance with U.S. federal regulations, all non-U.S. citizens attending training at Recurrent Training Center (RTC) must hold the appropriate visa. Please review the following requirements based on your specific training program.
 
1. Initial ATP Certificate or Type Rating Training
If your training will result in the issuance of an Initial Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate/License or a New Type Rating, you are legally required to enter the U.S. on a vocational student visa.
• Visa Category: M-1 (Vocational Student Visa).
• Requirement: You must be issued a Form I-20 from RTC. This form is a prerequisite for your visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
 
Note: Conducting initial certification or rating training on a B-1/B-2 visa or ESTA is a violation of U.S. immigration law and may jeopardize your FAA certification and future entry into the United States.
 
2. Recurrent Training (Currency/Refresher)
If you already hold the specific type rating on your pilot certificate/license and are attending RTC solely for recurrent proficiency, flight reviews, or instrument proficiency checks, a student visa is not required.
• Visa Category: B-1 (Business Visitor) or ESTA (Visa Waiver Program).
• Purpose: This training is classified as a business-related activity for professionals maintaining existing qualifications rather than a course of study toward a new credential.
 
Exemption: Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)
If you are a Lawful Permanent Resident of the United States, you are not required to obtain a student visa (M-1) to attend flight training. Your valid Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) serves as your authorization to reside and train in the U.S.


For the most up-to-date official information regarding travel to the U.S. for training, please refer to the following resources:
• U.S. Department of State – Student Visas: travel.state.gov – Student Visa Information
• DHS Study in the States (M-1 Guide): studyinthestates.dhs.gov – M-1 Postsecondary