F.A.Q. Traveling
Limited Power of Attorney
The Study Abroad Agreement-Transfer Credit Programs and International Distance Education. By signing the Limited Power of Attorney section, students give the Office of Study Abroad authority to (1) access transcripts and records held, (2) continue or withdraw enrollment, (3) contact financial aid about disbursements, (4) discuss finances and academics with designated persons, and (5) bill student accounts for study abroad fees.
General Power of Attorney (Sample)
A document a student should prepare and have notarized so that a trusted person in the U.S. can handle financial and legal affairs at the student's request while the student is abroad.
Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care Decisions (Sample)
A document a student should prepare and have notarized so that a trusted person in the U.S. can handle medical decisions on behalf of the student abroad if the student is incapable of making these decisions.
Are study abroad students subject to the laws of the host country?
Yes. Students must comply with the laws of the country in which they are studying or traveling. Since these laws differ from place to place, students can find up-to-date information about legal affairs in all countries by reading the U.S. State Department's Consular Information Sheets.
Does U.S. law supersede the laws of the country?
No. Students are subject to the laws of the country in which they study or travel which may be stricter or more lenient than those of the U.S., especially with regards to the use of alcohol and drugs. U.S. law does not supercede other countries' law, and students who have legal problems while abroad need to consult with the U.S. Consulate or Embassy for assistance.
Do students need a passport to study abroad?
Yes. U.S. citizens need a U.S. passport, and Permanent Residents and international students going abroad need the passport of their country of citizenship. Having a passport makes it easier to transact financial matters abroad, plus it is the best proof of identity. Any one needing to obtain a student visa must have a passport. Passports need to be valid for at least 6 months following the end of your proposed program.
Should I wait until I am accepted into the program to apply for a passport?
No. Due to the higher demand for passports because air travel to Mexico and Canada now requires a passport, the time to process passports may be as much as 12 weeks. Students with strong motivation to study abroad should obtain a passport as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Where do U.S. citizens apply for a passport?
The main U.S. Post Office of all major cities (including Las Cruces) will accept applications (and take required photos). The total cost is about $110 (including photos) and the passport is valid for 10 years for persons 18 or above. Students may also apply on line with the U.S. State Department.
What is a visa?
A visa is a document provided by another country that gives citizens of other countries permission to enter their country and establishes under what conditions they may stay in that country.
What type of visa will students need to study at language institutes?
Depends. Students attending language institutes for short duration (usually 90 days or less) can usually travel on a tourist visa. But those going long duration (more than 90 days) may need to obtain a student visa.
Some countries, such as Spain, require student visas for students going more than 90 days and applicants must take their documents in person to the Consulate serving New Mexico (Houston for Spain).
Students should visit www.embassy.org for a list of foreign consulates and instructions for visas. The U.S. State Department's Consular Information Sheets also provide information on visa requirements of all countries. Visa requirements change frequently, so students must do there homework early so they are not prevented from studying abroad because they failed to obtain a proper visa in a timely manner.
Will students have to pay a fee for the tourist or student visa?
Yes, in many cases. Fees vary so check with the appropriate Consulate.
Will students have to pay an exit tax upon leaving the country of their program?
Sometimes. Many countries, especially in Latin America, charge a departure tax before you may board your flight home. The amount varies from $25 to $50, and can be paid in cash and sometimes by credit card. Plan to have the money to pay this tax, unless it was included in the cost of your air ticket.
May I take a car into Mexico or Central America so I can travel to my language site?
This is not recommended, but it is possible. Students must comply with the vehicle registration and insurance requirements of the country or countries in which they will drive.
Where do students find discounts for travel abroad?
Students can purchase the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) from the Office of Study Abroad to obtain travel discounts. International Student Exchange Identity Cards (ISE) also has discount programs. The International Student Exchange Program has several sponsors that provide travel discounts, phone cards, and other benefits. The Office of Study Abroad also has lists of other organizations providing student discounts. Somne other useful sites are: Student Universe • STA Travel • Kayak • Travelzoo • Expedia • Orbitz