Travel information
Apply for a passport
If you haven’t already applied for a passport, you should do so immediately. Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the end date of your program. You can apply for a passport at the International Center — call 573-882-6007 to make an appointment.
Visa information
A visa is your official permission to enter a specific country and is granted by that country’s government. If you plan to travel outside your host country while abroad, be sure to check the entry requirements for any country you plan to visit. Some countries will require you to obtain a visa just to enter the country, regardless of the purpose or length of your visit.
U.S. citizens are not required to obtain a visa for this program. If you are not traveling abroad on a U.S. passport, you must:
- Notify your study abroad adviser.
- Determine if a visa is required for your study abroad program.
For specific information, go to the consular or embassy website for Germany. Applying for a visa can take several weeks, so start the process early. Please remember that the presentation of a visa application does not guarantee the issuance of a visa. It is your responsibility to determine if you need a visa for this program and then take appropriate action.
Arrival information
It is a good idea to try to be in your host city at the arrival time suggested by your host university. Carefully read the arrival information and instructions provided by your host university if you would like to check in to your accommodations right away. If you arrive earlier, you may have to arrange to stay in a youth hostel (Jugendherberge) until the office is open. You should research the locations and contact information for several youth hostels or hotels before you leave the United States.
Departure information
Your program may have a specified day of checkout and departure for all participants. You cannot stay in your room beyond that date and time, and you should take this into account in your travel plans. If you must leave at a later date, you will need to find an alternative accommodation, like a youth hostel or hotel.