PASSPORT & VISAS
It is important that you know what visa requirements will apply to you so that you can prepare well in advance. Many consulates, for instance, now require that students appear in person to apply for their visa. Some students even take these visa requirements into consideration when choosing the country where they want to go for a summer, semester or year abroad.
If you need a student visa, applying for it can be a complex process that requires your careful attention. You should begin to do research about the student visa requirements for the country or countries you will be visiting and living in even before you know you have been accepted on your program. Gathering the required documentation for your student visa can take as much or more time than your study abroad application itself.
Passports are the first step in international travel and applying for entry!
In order to apply for entry to another country, you must have a passport which is valid for up to 12 months past your return date. If you do not currently have a passport with this validity, you should apply for a new passport immediately. Regular passport processing times are typically 4-6 weeks.
Applying for an entry visa is an independent process
Albert Einstein University is not in any way responsible for obtaining student visas or for visa complications, delays or denials. Unfortunately the university cannot change visa requirements, nor does it help if we call consulates or embassies on your behalf. Although we're happy to help you in whatever way we can, the decision to issue you with a visa rests solely with the consulate or embassy.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS CAN CHANGE AT ANY TIME. We advise that you pay close attention to consular updates, as you are responsible for knowing and satisfying the requirements for your host country and study abroad program. ALL STUDENTS MUST OBTAIN A VISA (if required) of their host country to participate in their program. Failure to obtain a visa will result in you not attending the program.
Independent travel prior to the start of Study Abroad Programs
Please be aware that the visa application process for some countries may require students to surrender their passport for several weeks or months prior to the start of the study abroad program. These consular requirements may affect students' independent travel plans. Visa requirements should be investigated and considered by all applicants prior to planning independent travel (including travel over breaks or arriving early at your program site). All students are required to have the necessary visa documentation in order to participate in our program.
If you have any questions about whether a particular program requires an entry visa, for planning purposes (such as for multiple study abroad programs), please contact us.