Passport and Visa Information
Passport
You will need a valid passport to study abroad and most countries require it to expire no less than 6-12 months from the end of your study abroad program. If you need to apply for or renew your passport, start before you submit your study abroad application!
Visas
Many countries require that foreign students have a visa, an official document giving permission to enter a country. It may be in the form of a stamp imprinted on a page in your passport or it might be an official document which includes a photograph. As they vary from country to country, you need to check with the country’s embassy for up-to-date visa and entry requirements.
To apply for a student visa you may need to visit the consulate nearest your permanent address or in New York City depending upon the country. When applying, make sure to check what documents you will need to submit along with your visa application and fee. These might include: your passport, a letter for immigration authorities, and the acceptance letter from your study abroad program/institution. You may also be required to submit one or more photographs, evidence of financial support during your period of study abroad (i.e. bank statement), and proof of medical insurance.
- We will provide a letter confirming enrollment in your Study Abroad Program
- Visa applications typically can be submitted 3-6 months before travel
- While the visa is being processed, you will not have access to your passport so you will not be able to travel internationally during this time. If your passport is your only official government-issued ID, you should obtain another form of ID before applying for a visa
- For students studying abroad in a Fordham-sponsored or Exchange program, visa information can be found in your Study Abroad Portal Account. For students studying on a partner program, your host school will send you visa information.
- If you are planning to study abroad in more than one country in a year, you must check the visa requirements for both countries. It is usually not possible to apply for a visa from outside of your home country.
Notary
- Some visa application documents may require you to sign them in the presence of a Notary. You can book an appointment with a member of the study abroad office team who is a notary here. Please bring your unsigned documents and proof of identification with you to your appointment.
Fordham London
Most students will not need to apply for a visa. Visit the United Kingdom and Visa Immigration's website to check if you will require a visa.
The UK is introducing a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) process for foreign nationals. An ETA costs £10 and it is not a visa. From 08 January 2025, non-visa visitors with a US passport will require an ETA. To check whether you need an ETA and to apply please visit the United Kingdom and Visa Immigration's website. ETA applications will be online beginning 27 November 2024. Additional guidance about what documents are recommended for travel can be found in your study abroad portal after acceptance.
Fordham Granada
Most students will need to apply for a Spanish visa in advance of their semester abroad. The Office of Study Abroad will schedule a group appointment with the New York Spanish Consulate for students studying in Spain. A list of materials required for a Spanish Visa application can be found in your study abroad portal after acceptance.
Other Programs Worldwide
Students studying abroad in other programs will have to follow the visa procedures for that programs' country. In most cases, Fordham students are permitted use the resources of the NYC consulates of their program's country, as well as the regional consulate nearest to home if not NYC. Cost for visa applications can vary per country, and Fordham students can reach out to our office for assistance in preparing for their visa applications.
Europe is introducing a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETIAS) process for foreign nationals wishing to travel to any of these 30 European Nations. An ETIAS costs €7 and it is not a visa. Beginning early 2025 non-visa visitors with a US passport will require an ETIAS. To check whether you will need an ETIAS and learn more please visit the European Union's website.
Have questions about applying for a passport, visa, or ETA/ETIAS? Contact us