Passport & Visa
Passport
A passport (current cost is $130.00, subject to change) is the only form of identification recognized everywhere that verifies your citizenship. A passport is required both when entering and leaving another country. The Office of International Education & Programs encourages students to obtain a passport their freshman year (if you do not already have one) to prevent delays. The processing and delivery can take between 4-6 weeks.
A United States passport is valid for 10 years. Please check the expiration date to make sure your passport will be valid for six months after your return date. If not, renew your passport immediately. Passports must have enough blank pages to accommodate entry and exit immigration stamps for each country of travel. View additional information here.
With completed Passport application, you must include the following:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship
- Proof of identity (i.e. a valid driver's license)
- 2 identical (2’x2’) photographs. Color photo must be clear, taken within the past 6 months, full-face, front view on a white or off-white background, normal street attire; no hats or headgear
- Appropriate fees
- Social security number
When you receive your passport:
- Make sure all the information is correct
- Sign in black or blue ink
- Make multiple copies: one to leave at home, one to have at all times when traveling, and one to upload to the International Education & Programs portal
Please hold onto your passport with caution at all times. If you lose or have your passport stolen, you should report to the nearest U.S. Consulate or Embassy as soon as possible.
NON U.S. PASSPORT HOLDERS
If you are traveling on a passport other than a U.S. passport, email the international department to ensure your F-1 visa will remain valid.
Visa
A Visa grants you permission to enter a country for a specific time period. Visa requirements vary from country to country (based on your citizenship, purpose of visit, and length of stay). You will need a valid passport before applying for a visa. You are responsible for researching and obtaining the visa (or residence permit) and understanding the immigration requirements. To review travel information specific to your study abroad destination, including visa requirements, check the U.S. Department of State website, as well as the website of the country’s embassy or consulate. If you appear with an incomplete or incorrect visa application, the Consulate or Embassy will most likely reject your application for a visa.