Passports
Requirements
A passport is required for all study abroad programs. As soon as you are interested in studying abroad, you should start the process of applying for a passport or check to see when your current passport expires. Depending on the season, it can take anywhere from 6-18 weeks to receive your passport after you apply, so it’s important to plan ahead.
Some countries have specific laws for U.S. passport holders about how many remaining months of validity or blank stamp pages your passport needs when you enter the country. The general recommendation is to make sure your passport does not expire until at least 6 months after your arrival date abroad (or longer if you will be abroad past 6 months). If your passport will not be valid for this length of time, you should begin the passport renewal process.
If you have a passport from another country, you may use it to study abroad. You will just need to keep in mind that countries may have different visa and validity requirements for your passport than for U.S. passports. Be sure to follow all requirements and let your study abroad coordinator know about your non-U.S. passport.
Getting a Passport
To get a U.S. Passport, you’ll go through the U.S. Department of State passport application process.
If you are renewing your passport and your last passport was granted to you at age 16 or older, you may be able to complete the process through the mail or online.
If you are applying for your first U.S. passport or need to renew a passport granted to you before the age of 16, you will need to make an appointment with a Passport Acceptance Facility. You may select the University of Arizona Passport Office on Main Campus or another facility from the approved list. Be sure to follow all preparation instructions before your appointment and have all necessary paperwork and payment ready.
When you apply, remember to order a U.S. Passport Book. You will need the Passport Book, not the Card, to fly to your international destination.
Visas
Depending on the location and duration of your study abroad program, you may need a visa. A visa is an official document from another country that allows you to enter the country for a certain length of time and purpose.
You should talk to your study abroad coordinator to see if you need to apply for a visa for your program. If you do need one, your study abroad coordinator will have guidance for you on how to get started.