Embedded Files
To-Do:
Make physical and/or digital copies of each relevant document prior to departure.
In case of loss or theft, it will be much easier to report and have these items replaced if you have copies.
Leave one copy at home with a family member.
Take one with you and keep it in a safe place separate from your original documents.
Passport
Passport
A passport is required to exit and enter the United States and foreign countries.
Visit the U.S. State Department’s passport site to apply for or renew your passport
The average processing time is 6-10 weeks, so you'll want to apply ASAP
Some countries require that your U.S. passport be valid for at least 6 months or longer beyond the end date of your program. If your passport expires before the required validity, you will have to apply for a new one. Please check with the embassy or nearest consulate of the country that you plan to visit for their requirements.
Passports issued at age 15 or under are good for five years.
Passports issued at age 16 or above are valid for 10 years.
Please save yourself some unintended hassle by making sure you have at least a few empty pages in your passport.
Not sure if your passport is up-to-date and ready to go? Play this fun mini-game: Passport Quest-ionnaire!
To keep your passport safe:
Carry it with you. Do not pack it in your luggage.
Make two photocopies of the page with your photo and signature. Give one to your parents/guardians, and keep one with you in a safe place, separate from your passport. Taking a photo of your passport on your phone is also a good idea.
If your passport is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the nearest U.S. Consulate. The officials will instruct you on how to obtain a new passport.
Visa
Visa
A visa is an endorsement stamped directly in your passport by an official from a foreign country, which grants you permission to enter a country for a specific amount of time.
Visa requirements vary from country to country.
From the U.S. Department of State website: "You may need to get a visa before you travel to a foreign destination. Contact the embassy of the countries you will be visiting for more information."
International Student Identity Card
International Student Identity Card
Bethel recommends students purchase the International Student ID Card (ISIC). It costs about $22 and provides supplemental travel insurance. The ISIC does not take the place of basic medical coverage. The ISIC is affordable and good for one calendar year.
This card also entitles the holder to discounts (primarily in Europe) on transportation, accommodations, museum entrance fees, special student charter flights between cities in Europe, and long-distance calling plans. When you are traveling anywhere, show your card first and ask if there are discounts available.
All students studying abroad in international locations will be enrolled in CISI Insurance by the Study Abroad Office.
You should save digital copies of your CISI insurance card in an easily accessible location. You may also print a copy of your insurance card and the AXA Assistance phone number.
We also recommend downloading the CISI Traveler app for ease in making claims.
Important Phone Numbers
Important Phone Numbers
Emergency phone numbers
Emergency contacts
In-country emergency services
On-site program contact numbers
Lost/stolen credit card phone number (reachable from outside the US)
Numbers for credit card/debit card replacement
Airline Tickets
Airline Tickets
Your airline ticket is your only proof that you have purchased a seat on a particular flight. Therefore, it is imperative that you keep your tickets in a safe place, whether that is on your phone or a physical copy.
If you decide to print your tickets, do not pack them in your luggage. Keep them in a purse or wallet for easy access at the airport.
Airfare Resources:
Additional Form of Photo Identification
Additional Form of Photo Identification
Be sure to bring along an additional form of photo identification in addition to your passport! Some options would be:
Driver's license
State ID cards for non-drivers, issued by a state's Department of Motor Vehicles
Company-issued ID cards
Native tribal cards
Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
U.S. military or military dependent ID
Student ID
etc.
Medication Prescriptions
Medication Prescriptions
You'll want to bring along a hard or electronic copy of your medication prescriptions to have with you in-country just in case a need arises.
Feel free to consult CISI ahead of time for questions regarding traveling with prescription medications.
Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and Cash
Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and Cash
Visit the Money and Budgeting Abroad page for more info on spending abroad!
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