Do you need a visum??

[Matthois]

Hello,

Just a short question about a visum. I want to get my PPL in the US. And I want to do a short course (Just a few weeks) do you need a visum for it? Or can you do it like a holiday?
Advice please!

Thanks,

Matt

[KitKatPacificuk]

Should be able to do it like a holiday if you're only doing a PPL. Visitor Visas are normally ok for 90 days. If you were doing more such as a Commercial you would need to be there longer and would need a J1 or M1 visa. Which can be sorted through the US Embassy and the training establishment.

[Matthois]

Thanks for your reply.

I'm first going to get my PPL, and after that I want to do a full course to become a professional pilot. But the PPL is for previous experience. I'm now looking for a good school where I can get my PPL in a few weeks? any suggestions??

Matt

[GoneWest]

Minor technical point, KitKat - but there are no visitor visas valid for 90 days...That I'm aware of.

<<edit: to add the line "That I'm aware of">>

[regional guy]

GoneWest:

I would have to disagree with you there. You are partially correct, though. As far as I can know, you can enter the US without a visa (depending on where you are from) and stay for 3 months. You just need to complete an I-94. Some nationalities actually do need to apply for a tourist visa, still valid for 3 months, at the local embassy.

[KitKatPacificuk]

I was in Florida for 2 months with just a visitors Visa like regional guy described.

Only hired from one place and that was Orlando Flight Training in Kissimmee. I know people have had problems there with aircraft availability, but the guys there are good fun. Important to get good training and enjoy it at the same time.

[GoneWest]

Ok, regional - I agree...half each, eh??

From certain countries, you do need a visitor visa - and it probably is 90 days. From KitKat's UK address, the answer is No!.

The green coloured form completed on the aircraft (for INS) is an I94W - not an I94. The 94 is given to those with visas (and is white) - the 94W is given to those without visas...hence the name "Visa Waiver Scheme".

[regional guy]

GoneWest:

:D You are right. I meant I-94W, I guess we finally got it right. :D
The INS laws are enough to make your head spin at times though, huh??