Travel Documents and Other Logistics

Before entering your host country, you will be required to obtain certain travel documents.  Other documents are useful, but not required.

Passport (Required)

All U.S. citizens must have a passport to travel outside the United States. Information on obtaining a passport can be found at the United States Department of State Web site. Passports are usually valid for 10 years, so it is not too early to apply for one now.

Visa (Required)

Almost all countries require you to obtain a visa for stays longer than 90 days, and sometimes even for a shorter stay. A visa, often in the form of a stamp in your passport, grants you permission to enter and study in the host country.

Marquette students are responsible for obtaining their own visas. In almost all cases, you will need to apply for your visa prior to your departure with the nearest consulate of the country of your destination. Visas usually require four to six weeks for processing. You must be able to prove at the time of application that you have been accepted to a study abroad program.

The visa application process can be very sensitive. Therefore, we advise you to find out well in advance which documents you will need to submit, when and how (online, in-person, regular mail.) Each consulate in the United States sets its own regulations for visa applications. Some consulates will allow you to apply via mail, while others will require you to appear in person. We advise you read the information and follow instructions carefully.  Country-specific visa guidlines are available on our site.  For for more information please visit the United States Department of State website or contact your host country's consulate in the United States.

International Student Identity Card (optional)

The ISIC card offers special discounts abroad and on airfare. It can be obtained online or in the Office of International Education, Alumni Memorial Union, 425. You will need one passport-sized photo and a check or exact cash in the amount of $22. For more information on benefits, you may visit the ISIC Web site.

Internet Resources for the Traveler

Preparation for your trip requires more than acquiring the right documents.  Some of your preparation will include (among others): purchasing your airplane ticket, becoming informed of current events in your host country, and finding insurance for your overseas travel if your current insurance does not cover it.  For internet resources that may be helpful to you, visit our Internet Resources page.