International Students
Non-U.S. citizens must receive TSA clearance before beginning flight training in the United States. We've helped international students navigate this process and we'll walk you through every step.
The TSA's Flight Training Security Program (FTSP) applies to any non-U.S. citizen or non-U.S. national seeking flight training in the United States. This includes training for any of the following:
U.S. citizens and U.S. nationals are not required to complete FTSP — but flight schools are required to verify citizenship status before training begins. If you hold a valid U.S. passport or were born in the United States, this process does not apply to you.
The FTSP process typically takes 30 days or more from the time fingerprints are submitted. We strongly recommend beginning your TSA application at least 6–10 weeks before your intended training start date. No flight training may begin until TSA approval is confirmed.
The FTSP process involves both you and Fly Eagle Sport. Clear communication between us at each stage is essential. Here is the full sequence from start to first flight.
Go to the official TSA FTSP portal at fts.tsa.dhs.gov and create a candidate account. You will submit your biographic information, upload required identity documents, and pay the initial application fee. After submitting, the TSA will notify Fly Eagle Sport that you have listed us as your intended training provider.
While your TSA application is processing, reach out to us through our contact form or by emailing customerservice@flyeaglesport.com. Let us know you are an international student working through the FTSP process. We will conduct our own internal screening and gather information about your training goals so we can match you with the right CFI and program.
TSA will send you an email with instructions to pay the $130 processing fee. Once paid, you will receive a separate "Fingerprint Instructions" email. Do not submit fingerprints before receiving this email — early submission will invalidate your fingerprints and cancel your training request.
Fingerprinting is done at TSA Enrollment by IDEMIA locations. The fingerprinting fee is $99, paid directly to IDEMIA. Visit tsaenrollmentbyidemia.tsa.dhs.gov to find a location near you or schedule an appointment in advance of your arrival in the U.S.
TSA will conduct a background check with the FBI using your fingerprints. Processing typically takes up to 30 days after fingerprints are submitted. If approved, you will receive a Determination of Eligibility — valid for up to five years. Note that while your overall eligibility lasts five years, each individual rating or certificate you train for has its own specific authorization window. Once issued, you must log back into your FTSP account and formally select Fly Eagle Sport as your training provider to continue.
Once your Determination of Eligibility is issued and you have selected Fly Eagle Sport in the FTSP portal, we will complete our approval of you as an active trainee. We will upload your photo to the TSA portal within five days of your arrival (as required by federal regulation), confirm your program and CFI assignment, and get you scheduled for your first lesson.
Training cannot begin until all prior steps are fully complete. There are no exceptions to this requirement — it is federal law under 49 CFR Part 1552.
Every application is different, but here is a realistic estimate for a well-prepared candidate who contacts us early and responds promptly at each step.
The following fees are paid directly to government agencies and are separate from any flight training costs at Fly Eagle Sport.
Ground school that is not conducted in an aircraft is generally permitted while your application is processing. However, you cannot fly or log any flight training hours until your Determination of Eligibility is issued and FES has formally approved you as a trainee. Check with us before beginning any training activity.
FTSP clearance and U.S. visa requirements are separate processes. TSA clearance does not grant the right to enter or remain in the United States. You are responsible for obtaining the appropriate visa for your stay. Most international flight students train on an M-1 (vocational student) or F-1 (academic student) visa. Consult the U.S. Embassy or a licensed immigration attorney in your country for guidance.
Yes. Once you have a Determination of Eligibility, you can add multiple flight training providers through your FTSP portal account. Each provider must individually approve you as a trainee before training begins at their location.
If TSA determines that you pose a security threat, your application will be denied and you will not be permitted to begin flight training. TSA will notify you of the reason and any applicable appeal process. Fly Eagle Sport is not involved in this determination and cannot intervene or appeal on your behalf.
Determinations of Eligibility are valid for five years. If you intend to continue training beyond that window, you must submit a renewal application through the FTSP portal before your current approval expires. Notify us as soon as possible so we can plan your training schedule accordingly.
International Students Welcome
Arizona offers over 300 days of VFR flying weather per year. Start your FTSP application early, reach out to us, and let's get you in the air.