|
Passports and Visas
Passports
US citizens need a passport to travel outside of the US. Passports are now required for entry to Canada and Mexico.
If you do not have a passport, apply for one now!
According to the State Department, passport processing times have increased due to high volume and are estimated at 10-12 weeks for regular service and 2-3 weeks for expedited service.
To apply for a passport, download the application from www.travel.state.gov/passport. Passport applications can also be picked up in the Office of International Programs or at either of the processing locations.
In addition to the application, you will need:
- Application fee of $97 or $157 for an expedited passport
- 2 official passport photos (these may be obtained at FedEx Kinkos, Costco, AAA, and Walmart)
- Valid proof of citizenship (e.b. a certified copy of your birth certificate or an expired passport)
- Proof of identity (e.g. a valid driver's license)
Submit the application to:
Clerk of the Court Office
Law and Justice Center
615 South 16th Avenue
or
Bozeman Post Office
5711 East Baxter Lane
Additional passport information
You should apply as early as possible to avoid the tourist rush, unexpected delays or just general bureaucratic slowness. Passports cost $67 for the passport itself and $30.00 for the execution of the application. Expediting the process is an additional $60. While the cost may seem hefty (especially on a student's budget!) your passport will be valid for ten years.
Please do not attempt to take your own passport photos or bring in your senior pictures. They will be rejected.
If you are applying to a country from which you will need a VISA, you need to apply 5-6 months before you plan to go abroad.
If you lose your passport while you are abroad, call the following number and they may be able to track your passport for you: 1-888-362-8668. This number does cost money and you will need a credit card number for this phone call.
Student Visas
You will need a student visa to enter almost any country.
Go to your country's embassy website to find up-to-date visa requirements and application procedures.
Each country will have its own specific requirements and regulations, so it is important to check what the requirements are for your country.
A directory of embassies located in Washington D.C. may be found at http://www.embassy.org/embassies/.
You may also find information on the following website: http://www.travel.state.gov/
YOU NEED TO BEGIN THE VISA PROCESS 3 MONTHS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE.
- There is almost always a fee attached to the visa application, and the process can take several weeks. It is important not to wait until the last minute to obtain a visa.
- This is a critical component of your time spent abroad and delays can cause you to miss your plane.
Some standard items usually required in the application are:
- Visa application form
- A current, valid passport
- One or more passport-type photographs
- A visa application fee
- Letter of acceptance from host institution
- Personal interview
Sometimes you may also be required to provide evidence of financial support during the period of time you will be studying abroad, a negative HIV test, or proof of medical insurance.
For more information about visa requirements, contact Nick Myers, Study Abroad Coordinator.
|
