U.S. Citizens: When applying for a passport for the first time, you must submit your application in person. Everything you need to know about U.S. passports (how to apply, how to expedite a passport application, and how to renew your passport) is on the following website: U.S. Passports and International Travel.

Non-U.S. Citizens: Check with your country of nationality's embassy or consulate for further information.

Information on visa requirements can often be found on your destination's embassy or consulate website.

If you are unable to locate this information, you can reach out to travelsafety@rice.edu for assistance.

Many consulates will require you to appear in person in order to process your visa application. Check with the relevant consulate to confirm if you are required to either submit your application or retrieve your visa in person. If you are required to attend an appointment in person, it is imperative that you book a date and time as soon as possible.

You should book the earliest available appointment. Consular appointments are at the discretion of the consular authority and subject to change. If you are unable to obtain an appointment that is suitable for your timeframe, you may need to check the consular booking system site multiple times to obtain an alternate appointment.

You should apply through the consulate or embassy of the country you are traveling to, located in the region where you legally reside (usually your home state or city).

Check the official website of that consulate for specific application instructions, required documents, and appointment availability, as procedures can vary.

If you need help locating the applicable embassy or consulate, contact travelsafety@rice.edu for assistance.

The cost of applying for a visa varies based on country, citizenship, and visa type. You can find more information on pricing from the relevant embassy or consulate.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must check the visa requirements for your destination country based on your nationality. Here’s what you should do:

• Check visa requirements for your citizenship on the official website of the destination country’s consulate or embassy.
• Confirm your current U.S. immigration status is valid and will remain valid while you are abroad and upon return.
• Gather required documents, which may include your passport, program acceptance letter, invitation letter, proof of financial support, and U.S. visa or residency documentation. If you need proof of travel insurance, email travelsafety@rice.edu.
• Apply through the appropriate consulate, usually the one serving your place of residence in the U.S.
• Apply early, ideally 8-12 weeks before departure, as processing times can vary.

Always consult the consulate directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

For questions about U.S. visa status or reentry requirements, contact the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) at oiss@rice.edu.

For all other questions, email travelsafety@rice.edu.