What is a visa?

Updated Mar. 25, 2026Refreshed annually

The M-3 visa is designated for Canadian and Mexican commuter students pursuing technical or vocational studies in the US. This visa allows individuals to enroll in programs at community colleges or technical schools, but maintain permanent residence in their home country. M-3 visa holders must be enrolled in a full course of study and are not permitted to work during their stay in the United States.

The length of stay for an M-3 visa is typically determined by the duration of the vocational program, with a maximum limit of three years, including any extensions.

The State Department does not maintain a cap on M-3 visas.

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USAFacts endeavors to share the most up-to-date information available. We sourced the data on this page directly from government agencies; however, the intervals at which agencies publish updated data vary.