Although you’re already studying abroad in the United States, we still encourage students
who are non U.S. citizens to participate in a plethora of study abroad programs offered
at SBU. It is a great opportunity to expand and develop the cross-cultural competencies
you’ve begun growing while studying in the U.S. International students have already
adapted to a new environment in the U.S. and are able to apply their already refined
skills of independence and resourcefulness overseas. The opportunity of studying abroad
as part of your academic career provides opportunity for further academic and cultural
expansion and perhaps even the acquisition of a third language.
You will need to know your complete travel plans to make sure you have visas for every
country you travel through, before, during, or after your education abroad program.
You must apply for visas for all of these countries. For example, some students forget
to get a "transit visa" to pass through a country on their way to their final destination
and they are not allowed to enter the country.
Since visa requirements and procedures vary by host country and student citizenship,
it is important planning is started as early as possible.Many students wait too long to apply for their visa and do not receive their visa
in time to go on the program. You may need to travel a long distance to hand in your
documents and pick up your visa, which requires extra time. If you are unable to participate
in your education abroad program because you did not obtain your visa in time, you
may still be responsible for the program fee.
It may be faster and more convenient to apply for your visa from the United States,
if permissible. Applying from your home country could be difficult and processing
might take a long time.
For students holding a U.S. visa, it is important this visa is current so that you
will be able to re-enter the U.S. when you return from your program abroad.
F-1 students must complete the Study Abroad Request in accessVIS for each semester you plan to study abroad. Contact SBU’s Visa and Immigration Services with any questions on how to maintain your F-1 status while abroad.
F-1 students must have a valid travel signature when entering back into the United
States. More information regarding travel outside of the United States can be found here.
Should-non F-1 students require a letter of support for immigration-related purposes,
please contact your IAP Coordinator and ask if it can be provided.
Non-F-1 students should consider hiring an immigration attorney, as SBU’s Visa and
Immigration Services is legally unable to advise students who are not in F-1 status.
The resources linked within this page are for your reference only and are not affiliated
or approved by Stony Brook University. In addition, it is the sole responsibility
of the student to secure all necessary immigration related documents prior to the
departure of the program.
