IMPORTANT: We are currently NOT able to assist with M1/J1 or similar visas for flight training in the USA.


Non-US citizens and alien residents have to comply with new regulations.
The up-to-date information can be checked at the AOPA website (http://www.aopa.org)
and also http://www.flightschoolcandidates.gov

Here an excerpt of the basic procedure:

The applicant registers on TSA's Web site, www.flightschoolcandidates.gov, at which point they will be given a username and password via e-mail. After receiving the e-mail, the student logs in to the site and submits the following:

Full name, gender, current address and five-year address history, date and country of birth, and citizenship information.

TSA identification number (not provided to candidate — only seen by TSA).

Passport and visa information — Foreign applicants are required to have a passport.

Training details — Basic information including the name of the school, type of aircraft, and pilot certificate or rating sought.

Fingerprints — Fingerprinting forms are available by calling the American Association of Airport Executives at 703/797-2550. The applicant takes the forms to a local law enforcement office or one of the airports listed at www.tsc-csc.com/printoffices/. The prints can be taken either electronically or by the provided forms. After they are completed, the prints are sent back to AAAE, who then forwards a copy to TSA. Additional instructions can be found on TSA's Web site at https://www.flightschoolcandidates.gov/fp_instr.html.

$130 application processing fee — The fee must be paid by credit card on the TSA's Web site.

Photo — TSA recommends taking the photo after the candidate and flight school receive the final e-mail confirming the candidate's eligibility to take flight training, at which point it can either be uploaded to TSA's Web site or faxed to 703/542-1221.

A final approval from TSA is not required prior to the start of flight training in aircraft below 12,500 pounds maximum gross takeoff weight. However, the flight school and candidate must wait for the final e-mail from TSA that confirms that the fingerprints and fee have been received before starting flight training. The photo should be taken and sent to TSA after this final e-mail is received. If TSA determines the student is a security threat, the school or instructor will be notified, and training is to be stopped immediately.