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Travel Resources
Visa Information
Not all countries require visas from U.S. citizens. However, if you are studying in any of the countries listed below, you will need a student visa (and you may be asked by the airline to show proof that you have a student visa before you are allowed to board the plane):| Argentina | Australia | China |
| Chile | Egypt | France |
| Hungary | Israel | Italy |
| Japan | Spain |
This list is not all-inclusive. Other countries may also require you to obtain a student visa. Check with your study abroad program.
Applying for a Visa
The visa application process can be time-consuming. Don’t leave it until the last minute! Your program will assist you in applying for the visa, and Student Academic Services can give you general information, including the information below:
- You must have a passport to apply for a visa. One can take four to six weeks to get, so if you don’t have a valid passport, apply now.
- If you already have a passport, check the expiration date and make sure it is valid for six months after your program ends.
The following
are Passport Acceptance facilities in Seattle:
| Facility Name | Street Address | Phone |
| Central Neighborhood Service Center | 2301 S. Jackson St., #208 |
206-615-0725 |
| King County District Court (Seattle Division) | 516 Third Ave., Rm E-327 |
206-205-9200 |
| Lake City Neighborhood Service Center | 12707 30th Ave. |
206-615-0725 |
| Seattle Neighborhood Serv. Ctr - University Center | 4534 University Way NE |
206-615-0725 |
| Seattle Neighborhood Serv. Ctr. - West Seattle | 4750 California Ave. SW |
206-615-0725 |
| Seattle Neighborhood Service Center - Ballard | 2305 NW Market St. |
206-615-0725 |
| Seattle Neighborhood Service Center - Delridge NSC | 5405 Delridge Way SW |
206-615-0725 |
| Seattle Neighborhood Service Ctr- Southeast Center | 4859 Rainier Ave. S |
206-615-0725 |
Interacting With the Host Country’s Consulate
Generally, you will need to work with your host country’s consulate in the United States to get your visa. You are assigned a consulate based on your state of residence.
Visa requirements vary country by country, and sometimes consulate by consulate. For example:
- If preparing to study in Chile or Argentina, you may need to have a police or FBI background check. (Tip: Using the state police is quicker than the FBI!)
- If preparing to study in Australia, you will need to get chest X-rays and a doctor’s signature on a health form provided by the government of Australia.
- If preparing to study in Italy and you live in the Midwest, you will probably have to go to the consulate in Chicago for your visa.
Obtaining the visa stamp in your passport will take some work on your part. Allow plenty of time for the process!
Remember, with planning and follow-through, your study abroad experience will be one you’ll never forget!