Alien Flight Student Program: Requirements and Procedures for Non-U.S. Citizens
The Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP), operated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), was established to ensure that individuals seeking flight training at FAA-approved flight schools do not pose a security risk. If you are not a U.S. citizen, the TSA’s alien flight training/citizenship validation rules, enacted in 2004, directly affect you. This article outlines the requirements and procedures for foreign pilots, resident aliens, and tourists seeking flight training in the United States.
Who is Considered an Alien?
Any person not a citizen or national of the United States is considered an alien. This includes resident aliens (green-card holders) and visa holders in the United States. All aliens are required to seek and obtain permission to receive flight training through a process of citizenship and background verification by the TSA.
TSA Approval: A Prerequisite for Flight Training
Before commencing any flight training, all foreign pilots, resident aliens, and tourists must receive approval from the Department of Homeland Security. This is a multi-step process that may take a month or more to complete.
Key Steps in the Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP)
While the TSA/FTSP site is currently unavailable until July 30, 2024, the general process outlined below is assumed to remain accurate.
Complete the Foreign Student Application:
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- Course Name: Choose your course (e.g., specific flight training program).
- Estimated Start Date: Enter a start and end date that approximates when you want to begin the training and are likely to complete it. This can be an estimate; however, you will not be able to begin before the commencement date.
Submit the Application: Once you have completed and submitted this application, the TSA will request that the flight school (e.g., International Aero Academy) validates you as a potential student.
Fingerprinting Process: The TSA will then send you instructions for the fingerprinting process. In some cases, the fingerprinting process can be completed at the academy.
Pay the TSA/AFSP Fee: A $130 fee is required.
Fingerprinting: After payment, the TSA/AFSP will send you instructions for having fingerprints taken.
Important Considerations
- The entire process, from application to completion, must finish within 365 days of approval.
- Ensure all standards are met and the evaluation has been completed before progressing.
- Students enrolling in flight training programs with International Aero Academy will be applying for Category 3 (rating or certification) or Category 4 (recurrent) flight training and can expect a minimum of 3 days to complete the TSA approval process.
Additional Requirements for Training in Aircraft Exceeding 12,500 Pounds
If you intend to undergo training in an aircraft exceeding 12,500 pounds, the flight school must take additional steps:
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- The flight school must notify the TSA that you have requested the training.
- You will need to submit additional information, such as birth and citizenship history and identification in the form of passport and visa information.
The Purpose of the AFSP
The Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP) is designed to prevent individuals seeking flight training at FAA-approved flight schools from posing a security risk. It ensures that all foreign students undergo a thorough background check and security assessment before being allowed to operate an aircraft or obtain an airman certificate under 14 CFR.
Assistance and Support
While this may appear to be a highly involved, multi-step process, it is easily performed. Flight schools like the International Aero Academy are available to assist you in any way possible.
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