ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS

When preparing to travel abroad, it is essential that you obtain all the proper documents prior to your departure.

PASSPORTS

You must have a valid passport to travel outside the U.S. If you do not have a passport, you should apply for one in ample time – the process can take several weeks or even months. If you already have a passport, be sure that it is valid for the entire time you're planning to be abroad.

If you're applying for your first passport, you must apply in person at a U.S. passport agency or at one of the several thousand federal or state courts or U.S. post offices authorized to accept passport applications.

Be prepared to present the following materials:

• A completed Passport Application Form (DS-11)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship (certified birth certificate, expired passport, certificate of naturalization or consular report of birth)
• Personal identification bearing your photograph and signature, e.g., a valid driver's license
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• A check or money order for the appropriate amount.

Comprehensive information on applying for or renewing a passport is available online.

Passport tips

• Under no circumstances should your passport be altered.
• Guard your passport carefully against loss or theft.
• Do not forget to sign your passport.
• Never pack your passport in luggage while traveling; it should be easily accessible at all times.
• Take along a lost passport kit, which should include the following:
  • Two U.S.-produced passport photos
  • A certified copy of your birth certificate (which you can shrink to wallet size)
  • A photocopy of the face page of your passport – OR – use your iNext Global Phonecard to store a photocopy of the face page of your passport in your online Document Store
  • And don't forget to keep your “lost passport kit” separate from your actual passport and, for additional safety, leave a copy of the face page of your passport with someone back home

VISAS

Some countries require a visa for entry. A visa is an endorsement or stamp placed in your passport by a foreign government that allows you to enter and stay in that country for a specified period of time.

If a visa is required, obtain it from the appropriate foreign consular representative before departing the U.S. Allow sufficient time for processing your visa application, especially if you are applying by mail. Most foreign consular representatives are located in principal cities, and in many instances, you may be required to obtain visas from the consular office in the area of your residence. As soon as you receive your visa, check it to make sure no mistakes were made. 

General information on entry requirements is available online at the State Department Website. For specific details, consult the Embassy or Consulate of the country you plan to visit.

IMMUNIZATION RECORDS

If you plan on traveling to countries where immunizations are required, you must present a record of vaccinations. The most widely recognized document for this purpose is the yellow World Health Organization booklet, International Certificates of Vaccination, which is available from most doctors and health centers. Carry this document with your passport.

HOSTELLING INTERNATIONAL CARD

If you're on a budget and plan to travel around while you are abroad, you may want to consider purchasing a Hostelling International card. The card allows you to stay at hostels in many countries around the world at a discount rate. Information is available online at www.hihostels.com.