Richard:
Thanks for the links, and I have looked at the info as far as it goes.
The problem is that "recurrent training" definitely is NOT what a BFR, rental check out or just a brief brush up on procedures is, nor doing the 6/6 approaches with an instructor as a safety pilot.
None of these things fall under the defintions of a proper course of training, for which an M1 Visa is required. In fact, you could not meet the accepted requirements of the M1 Visa for these things. There is no course, syllabus, exam or anything - as one is not seeking a qualification! Granted that the category 4 does not require fingerprinting, nor is there any cost involved - but the TSA seem to have missed out the casual/recreational flyer who simply needs to keep current and keep his licence valid.
Any thoughts on that?