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U.S. passport holders who are planning on being in most countries over 90 days will need to obtain a visa from the consulate of the country in which they are studying. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain the proper visa. Your Study Abroad Coordinator can offer assistance or advice.

You cannot apply for a visa until you have your passport!  The State Department provides information on entry requirements for every country here.  Locate the country you are going to to determine if you will need a visa for your perios of study.  Links to foreign consulates are also provided.

The following is an example of what the consulate may require in addition to your completed application:

• A valid passport plus one photocopy
• 2 passport sized photos
• A letter of acceptance to a study program guaranteeing accommodations
• A letter of acceptance from your overseas school or home institution
• A written statement by your health care provider verifying your overseas medical coverage and a copy of your health insurance card
• A statement from your bank verifying enough funds to cover the costs of living overseas
• Visa application fee (sometimes $60 or more)
• Some countries require additional certification from the local police department

Have your application completed and all of the necessary documents ready prior to mailing a package to a consulate. The full process of applying for a visa can be time-consuming and frustrating. An incomplete application will only delay the process. It is also advised that you remain polite with the consulate during this time—Remember that a visa is a privilege, not a right. The consulate is not obligated to grant you one! Be polite! Cultural differences begin at the Consulate door.

It is also a good idea to register with the authorities upon arrival overseas. Assistance may be easier to get should you loose your passport or other travel documents if you notify the police of your presence overseas.

Visas for non-U.S. Passport Holders and Permanent Residents

If your passport is from any country other than the U.S., you must check with the consulate in the country in which you intend to study.  **Non-US Citizens or Permanent Residents are responsible for their own immigration documentation for entering the study abroad country or countries (including transit countries) and for re-entry into the United States. Each country may have different requirements to enter and stay in that country based on your citizenship. The time it will take to process your application may be much longer, so please begin looking into this as soon as possible. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain the proper documentation.

If you plan to travel to other countries while abroad, it is recommended that you check with the consulates of EVERY country that you plan to visit as they may have different restrictions.