Expert: D. Norkus - 3/10/2008

Question
dear dottie,
i am charith currenly a student in new york doing my masters in biomedical engineering, i dont see my self working in a lab since i have never enjoyed it and the future for me doesnt look so exciting in this field ao i want to take up being a pilot as a profession in the states itself, i am not a citizen or a legal resident here ,will taking this option be suited for me....'
i am really confused and need help
thank you
charith

Answer
Carith

First off, if you desire to pursue any career in the USA you must be sure you can obtain an Employment Authorization Document. With out this work permit, you will be unemployable in the United States, so training for a new career here will be pointless.

Get information about getting an EAD here- http://www.uscis.gov/vgn-ext-templating/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=1847c9ee2f82b010Vg...

(cut & paste the entire ink)

Once you are sure you can get a work permit, you can then investigate flight training options. However, you will be restricted in your school options as you are not an American citizen. Any foreign national who wishes to flight train in the Unites States MUST apply and be approved via the Dept of Homeland Security "Alien Flight Student Program" (AFSP). The Alien Flight Student Program conducts background checks for non-U.S. citizens seeking flight training. Prior to obtaining flight training non-U.S. citizens must apply online through the AFSP website and provide their fingerprints, biographical information, security documents including passport copies, and specific information about their desired training events.  Additionally, you can only attend a Homeland Security approved flight school as well.

Get information about the program and how to apply  at these links-

http://www.flightschoolcandidates.gov

http://www.aopa.org/tsa_rule/

http://www.tsa.gov/what_we_do/layers/afsp/editorial_multi_image_with_table_0215....


Only once you have done these things, can you can seriously embark on your new career. For info about airline pilot careers in the USA, see my website on that topic that addresses frequently asked questions- http://www.pilotcareer.info

Hope this help,
Dottie