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Six Popular Destinations That US Citizens Need A Visa To Visit

Posted on by Lloyd C

Everyone loves to travel, and there will always be specific requirements before entering another country. In all cases, you need a passport, and in most, you will need a visa. With a few exceptions, some of the most popular tourist destinations around the world require a visa to enter their country. For US citizens countries such as Brazil, France, and Italy don’t need a visa, but there are many more of the most popular tourist destinations that do require one.

Australia

After the 2000 Sydney Olympics, Australia turned into a major tourist destination for US citizens. Despite the influx of tourists from the US, Australia kept the visa requirement for safety and revenue, since visas are a great way to boost the economy. To get a visa for Australia, you will need to apply for a visitor visa by filling out ‘Form 1419 Application for a Visitor Visa’. The application can also be filled out online by applying for an eVisa.

Upon arrival, make sure you have a physical copy of your visa even if it was sent to you by email. Having multiple copies is also useful for identification if authorities stop you on Australian soil. Your passport must have at least 90 days of validity before arrival and should have at least one blank page for stamping. In addition to needing a visa, you may also need proof that you are HIV negative depending on how long you plan to stay in Australia. If you are HIV positive, you may be denied entry or have to be placed in the Australian healthcare system during the duration of your stay.

India

With India’s growing economy that has millions of young people looking to make a name for themselves, it’s no surprise that one of the industries that are growing exponentially in India is tourism. Filled with great food and rich history, India is just the place that would attract a US citizen to visit at least once in their lifetime. With so many people come a few obstacles when traveling to India. India requires that everyone that enters India must have both an entry and an exit visa before landing. You will need to contact your nearest Indian embassy or consulate depending on what visa you want or need. Since India outsources their visa services to Cox and King Global Services, you will need to go through them to get your visa, even as a US citizen. Make sure your passport is valid as well before traveling to India because you may be denied entry. Since Indian visa law changes frequently, it is essential that you check the latest information that we plan on updating as regularly as possible.

In addition to the requirements to travel to India, we also highly recommend that you get the following vaccines before going to India:

  • Hepatitis A and B vaccine
  • Typhoid vaccine
  • Tetanus vaccine
  • Oral polio vaccine

Russia

Possibly as a result of political and historical tension between the US and Russia, traveling to Russia as a tourist is not as simple for US citizens as they might think. To receive a Russian visa, you will need three main things:

  1. Completed visa application form. This must be printed out and signed with a passport size photo of the applicant glued on the application.
  2. Passport with at least six months of validity remaining before arrival and at least two blank pages for passport stamping. Some visa centers ask for a photocopy of the passport’s identification page, so make sure to make at least one photocopy.
  3. Invitation letter. Regardless of your reason for traveling to Russia, you will need an invitation letter signed by the host. This host is typically the travel agency (which must be based in Russia) through which you booked your trip through or the hotel at which you plan to stay in Russia.

Make sure that you also have your entire trip planned out before you begin. Most immigration centers will ask for your itinerary detailing your plans in Russia.

When traveling to Russia, you can only extend your stay if you need to extend your stay. This could either be for medical reasons or death in the family that requires you to stay past your given time. Make sure you notify proper authorities and your host in these situations so that there is no confusion or conflict.

Vietnam

Over the past few years, Vietnam has become a hotspot vacation location for US travelers. Since Vietnam is encouraging tourism heavily, their visa is easy to get and can be obtained in multiple ways. Just like traveling to any other country, you need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. Your visa application can be filled out on paper and sent by mail or online and sent through the online website. You can also get approval from a Vietnamese travel agency that allows you to get a visa on arrival. This is riskier as these travel companies do tend to charge very high rates. Make sure you double check all your necessities right here and cross check with other websites to get the most up to date information.

Japan

With the 2020 Tokyo Olympics right around the corner, it’s no surprise that you might need a visa to Japan. When entering Japan, you will need a six-month valid passport that can last you through your entire trip to Japan. As a result of the upcoming Olympics, Japan has allowed a 90-day visa-free entry to US citizens who enter Japan for tourist or business purposes. If you enter Japan with this status, you have to leave the country and come back to get a different type of visa status. For instance, if you enter with a ‘visa-free’ status but want to start working in Japan, you will need to leave Japan, apply for a work visa then come back in with the work visa. Luckily for those traveling to Japan, you do not need any exit or onward ticket as long as you do not overstay on whatever visa or status you have.

Another feature that has come as a result of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics is the new eVisa. Starting in April 2020, all incoming tourists can apply for a visa online. This way of obtaining a visa has proven to be effective, both for the tourists and for the countries’ economy. People are more inclined to go to a country if it is easier to get there, and the eVisa certainly makes the process much simpler.

Turkey

Few countries in the world have as rich a history as Turkey, making it a must-see destination for frequent travelers and wanderlusts. Despite the ease of access to getting a Turkish visa, there are still certain things you should remember while planning your trip.

Below is a detailed list of how to apply for a Turkish visa and what you will need while in Turkey:

Applying by Mail or in Person

  1. Valid passport
  2. Completed application form
  3. Supporting documents such as proof of residence (recommended)

Applying by eVisa

  1. Valid passport. This passport can be presented on arrival if you are picking up your eVisa in Turkey. It is also possible to scan your identity page for the application and send online.
  2. Email address. If your application is approved, your visa will be sent to you by email, so make sure you have a working email.
  3. Payment. An eVisa can be paid for online through Paypal, credit card, or debit card.

 

 

 

Chinese Business Visa (M Visa) Requirements

Posted on by Lloyd C

When applying for a Chinese visa, it is essential that you choose the one that suits you best. If you go to China to conduct business with Chinese companies, make sure you apply for a Chinese Business Visa (M Visa). This visa will not only allow you to travel all around China and experience their way of life but will allow you to create lifelong partnerships with companies or organizations in China that can be mutually beneficial.

Who Gets a Chinese Business Visa?

The M Visa is a visa explicitly given to foreigners who are coming to China with the plan of partnering or negotiating with businesses in China. A business that falls in this visa category includes signing contracts, negotiating import and export of products, or even getting a tour of how someone else’s company operates. If you only had a tourist visa in China, you would not be able to do any of this since it would not fall under the purpose of your visit. Business visas are designed to keep all foreigners organized in their country and make sure no one is doing what they are not supposed to do. Please do not confuse this visa with the China F Visa, as the F Visa is for science and culture, not business.

How Long Does a Chinese Business Visa Last?

The M Visa typically lasts for three months with a single stay for a maximum of 30 days. These numbers are often more flexible and can be extended with the approval of the Chinese government. Citizens of the US can apply for an M Visa that can last up to 10 years as long as you use it for business purposes. If the Chinese government finds out that you have been using your M Visa for vacationing in China while not doing any business, they can deport you or go as far as detaining and charging you. If you want to go on a vacation to China, you will need a separate Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa). The same way that an M Visa cannot be used to vacation in China applies vice versa; the L Visa cannot be used to conduct business on Chinese territory.

What do I Need to Get a Chinese Business Visa?

To obtain an M Visa, you will have to follow the following steps:

  • US passport with at least:
  • Filled out an application that is printed out with passport size color photo glued on it. The following form can be found here.
  • If applying from a country that is not the US or China, you will need proof of residence to prove you have residency in the US.
  • Invitation letter from one of the following:
    • Business partner
    • Institute or company in China
    • Organizers of trade fairs or Chinese participant in the trade fair
  • When requesting an invitation letter, make sure the writer of the letter includes:
    • Full name
    • Birthdate
    • Passport number
    • Purpose of visit
    • Arrival and departure dates
    • Places visiting
    • Inviter’s name, address, phone number, and signature

How do I Get a Chinese Business Visa?

There are several ways to get an M Visa; the most popular method is by applying and submitting your application form to a Chinese embassy or consulate. The application form can be found anywhere online or with a quick search here. You can also hand in the application form in person if you think it is safer or faster. Another way to hand in the application form is by giving it to someone else to hand into the Chinese embassy or consulate. Commonly, when you give your application form to someone else, that person is from the travel agency who you have put your trust into to take you through the process of getting your visa.

When the application is submitted to the embassy or consulate, it is reviewed for any possible red flags. These include prior convictions for crimes committed or a history of overstaying on a visa. These are a couple of a number of ways your visa application may be denied. If you do get rejected, request the Chinese embassy or consulate what it was that get you denied and tried correcting those mistakes.

How Long Does It Take For me to Get my Visa?

Usually getting your M Visa takes about one whole business week. For a service fee, you can obtain a visa that can arrive in as little as one business day with the help of expediting services. Regardless of how long you get to stay in China on a business visa, there is a flat rate for all options. This is because you are paying for the visa itself, and how long you get to stay is determined by the Chinese government, not by yourself. This fee does not include the possible extensions that you may request in the future while in China as those are separate additional fees.

Is it Possible to Extend my Chinese Business Visa?

To have a chance of extending your visa, you must go to a local Chinese consul that deals with the exits and entrances of foreign citizens. As long as you have at least seven days left on your Chinese Business Visa, you can apply for an extension. This is no guarantee of an extension, merely a request that can be approved or denied. Approval for an extension comes with a fee that will be paid for on site. The standard cost for a visa extension in China is anywhere from $25 to $40, depending on the place you go to.

The exception to the ‘Business-Only’ Rule for the M Visa

Just because you have gone to China business visa does not mean you cannot enjoy the country and all it has to offer. Since most of your business dealings are scheduled, the Chinese government knows when you are not conducting business. This allows you to enjoy the excursions, walk around your city or stay, or take a tour. Unless there was a mistake, there should be no reason for you to be punished by Chinese authorities for having a little vacation in between.

In conclusion, applying for Chinese business visa is not that difficult as long as you have all the necessary documents and information needed. It is important to remember that a single wrong move in the application process can lead to refusal. To make sure everything runs smoothly, it is recommended for businessmen and entrepreneurs to consult a legal advisor or an immigration specialist from China who can guide them through the entire procedure.

REAL ID Act: The Ultimate State by State Guide

Posted on by Lloyd C

Following the terrorist attacks of 9/11, the United States Government immediately began passing laws that increase security. Security for safety before boarding planes and on planes themselves. Part of these security measures included making identification nearly impossible to forge. The REAL ID Act of 2005 was designed to make each state comply with the security measures the federal government has taken. Since driver’s licenses and ID cards are issued by the state and the security of those is regulated by the federal government, the act forces each state to comply with the federal law or the people in those non-complying states cannot travel by plane.

REAL ID Act Deadline

After many years of small changes and enforcement to the act, the federal government has finally set a deadline. Every state will issue a new driver’s license in compliance with the REAL ID Act by October 1, 2020. The deadline will force the states that haven’t already issued the unique identification to begin the process unless granted an extension.

For example, New Jersey has an extension through October 10, 2019, which can give them more time to make the new ID’s. It does not exempt New Jersey from having to issue the unique ids by October 1, 2020. Forty-five US states are ready to roll out the new driver’s licenses to people who need them with Oregon, Oklahoma, Maine, Kentucky and New Jersey needing an extension.

REAL ID and RFID Chip

The ID works with the implementation of an RFID chip into the ID. The chip contains all the same information that appears on the top of your ID. For instance, by scanning the RFID chip, all your necessary information is seen on a monitor. So, the TSA official or whoever is in charge of maintaining security can view it on the screen. This extra layer of protection combined with a design that is near-impossible to replicate makes for safer travel than we had 20 years ago.

Steps to Get Your REAL ID

Obtaining a REAL ID is very similar to renew your driver’s license at the DMV. In these few steps, you have your new identification, one that is much better with more features and accessibility.

  1. Make an appointment at the DMV. Make sure you make this appointment before the state deadline
  2. Provide proof of identities such as a passport or birth certificate
  3. Social Security Number on an SSN card or work form
  4. Proof of US residency
  5. Pay for a new license

Less Hassle with a REAL ID

With your new license, you have the ability to travel to places without the hold-ups and hassle of carrying the regular license. In addition to being more secure as its intended purpose, it also allows you to travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean by land or sea. This access to other countries could possibly discontinue the need for passport cards, which practically serve the same purpose.

Having this new identification will be crucial for any domestic traveling you plan to do in the near future. Since the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is a federal organization, they will require that all travelers have a REAL ID. Even if they intend on flying domestically between states. If you do not have a passport and for instance want to fly from New York to Los Angeles, the ID will be enough to get on the plane. In addition to traveling by plane, this form of identification is use as adentification to enter any federal facilities.

Who Needs a REAL ID?

On the other hand, not every US citizen will need a REAL ID. If you are under 18 years of age, you cannot get one. Unless you have your full driver’s license already. Also, if you only need an ID for providing identification, there is no need for updating, since an old form of identification will do. Finally, if you have already been out of the country and do not mind using your US passport to fly domestically, there is no problem with bringing the passport as ID instead.

You do not need a REAL ID to travel by plane or to substitute your driver’s license immediately. If you want to keep your current documentation the same and still want to travel by plane without a passport, there are a few options. You can get DHS trusted traveler cards, a permanent resident card, DOD ID, or a tribal-issued photo ID. These are definitely not preferred to the REAL ID because of their lack of security in comparison, but they are all viable options for domestic travel.

The Cost of a REAL ID

REAL ID’s are not free, and the prices vary state to state. Prices range anywhere from $10 to $85 depending on the state and their regulations. Just like a driver’s license, the ID needs to be renewed before the expiration date if you intend on continuing to travel by air or car. The prices also depend on how much a state wants to make in revenue from the ids.

Passport vs. REAL ID

US passports and the upcoming REAL ID’s are similar in many ways. They are in their purpose and functionality but also very distinct from one another. Both identifications allow you to fly anywhere across the US legally and without any further identification. They both also can be used in situations outside of their original purpose. For example, if you are trying to open a bank account or trying to buy alcohol at a bar, both ID’s can be used to prove identity or age, respectively.

While they do have their similarities, the two are most certainly not the same. You can use a REAL ID to board flights throughout the US, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Passports are acceptable for domestic and internation flights as well. A REAL ID’s purpose is to improve security measures domestically against terrorism, so it would not make sense to allow worldwide travel with one.

Real ID vs. Passport Card

A REAL ID and passport card both share the same accessibilities, but the REAL ID has more also. You can use both as identification to travel in the US, to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. But unlike the passport card, a REAL ID is still a driver’s license. You cannot use your passport card to operate a vehicle. The same way you can’t use a REAL ID to travel to Europe. The limitations in function for every type of ID is to ensure the safety of every person moving in the US.

How to Repay a Promissory Loan

Posted on by Lloyd C

If you are a U.S. citizen and found yourself stranded in another country because of a crisis, you can be evacuated by the U.S. government. However, you must complete an Evacuees Manifest and Promissory Note or Form DS-5528 before departure.

What is a Promissory Note?

A promissory note is a legal contract between a borrower and a lender in which an agreement is made between both parties to repay a loan in full. The deal will stipulate the requirements for the loan to be repaid in full. So, in the circumstances of an evacuation, you agree to pay the cost of transportation. Check out allsmallbusiness.com for more information on promissory notes.

What a Promissory Note Contains

The promissory note will contain information about the individuals involved in the agreement. There is much more information, such as:

  • Name of the people in the contract (you and the U.S. government)
  • The amount to repay
  • When and how often payment must be made
  • What happens if payment is late
  • What happens for non-payment
  • The amount of interest on the loan

When to pay back your Promissory Note

Once you complete Form DS-5528 and submit it, you will have 30 days after receiving the bill. If the complete payment is not made within 60 days, you will be charged interest, and any other rate inquired by law. You may arrange for a payment plan if you need time to pay.

What Happens if you don’t pay back?

The promissory note is between you and the U.S. government. The form states the actions that will be enforced if payment is not made on time or not at all. If for any reason you are unable to make the payment in full or by the designated date, you can arrange for a payment plan. However, if your debt is delinquent or in default, you will:

  • You will be eligible for a limited validity passport (if payment is not made in full but in good standing)
  • You will not qualify for a limited validity passport
  • You must pay interest and any cost for collections

How to Legally Stay in Europe for more than 90 Days

Posted on by Lloyd C

Staying in Europe as an American citizen is much easier in comparison to other continents. Travel between the US and European countries is generally lenient, but every country has its laws regardless. For much of Europe, you cannot stay in a country for more than 90 days without the exceptions we will show you. These rules apply to most countries in the European Union and a few non-EU countries within what is known as the Schengen Area. While the EU countries of Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Cyprus are obliged to join but have not done so yet, Ireland and the United Kingdom have opted out of being in the Schengen Area. The intricacies of these visa laws are part of the reason why few people know how to stay in Europe past 90 days.

Do Some Research

Before you research how you can stay in Europe for more than 90 days, first see if you can. There are European countries that do not fall in the Schengen area, and going to or through those countries may affect your ability to stay past 90 days. This obviously doesn’t mean that only European countries in the Schengen Area let you stay 90 days. Countries such as Ukraine, Croatia, and Ireland let you stay 90 days; they’re just not in the Schengen Area.

Reasons to Stay in Europe for more than 90 Days

Stay on the Move

The first way to stay in Europe for longer than 90 days is by always moving. Although many countries share visa laws, moving between countries can ‘renew’ your stay in Europe. For example, you can only stay in the United Kingdom for up to 90 days at a time, but if you go to France for a day and come back, you can stay in the UK for another 90 days. This can work for many countries around Europe, but make sure you don’t do this regularly.

While countries allow re-entry in this manner, they might also have rules that can only allow you to be in the country for a limited number of days per year. Another way that you can travel through Europe is if you obtain short term transit visas and drive throughout the country. People who backpack through Europe always get a transit visa, which depending on the length of their trip saves money as well.

How long can you stay?

The length of stay on your visa is not only determined by your location, but also the type of visa you have. Certain visas merely allow you to stay for under 90 days without exception, so make sure you get the right visa before you decide to travel. Having a visa that does not allow multiple entries will most likely hurt your chances of being able to stay in Europe for more than 90 days. In situations such as having a student visa, make sure you consult with your university or institution before intending to stay past 90 days. This also applies to have a work visa, as employers will revoke your work permit if your visa is not valid.

Ask for an Extension

Another way of staying for longer than 90 days can be as simple as asking. If you are already in the country whose visa you obtained for, you can request an extension or a renewal on your visa. This can either be done through the country’s immigration department, online application, or back to the embassy which you applied to in the first place. If you are reapplying through the country’s immigration department, you will probably have to go through an interview with an official explaining your reason for staying past the 90 days given. Reapplying for an extension is much easy in some European countries than others. Countries like Sweden, Italy, and France, for instance, require the same documents and information as you would need the first time applying. Make sure you find out the specific documents necessary because two EU countries won’t necessarily have the same materials to fill out or the same requirements.

Visa Types

One of the more difficult ways to get a visa to last past 90 days is by applying for a particular type of visa. The types include a student, business, diplomatic, work, or an official visa. To get these visas, you will have to fulfill the requirements not just for getting the visa, but using it for its purpose. For instance, if you use your diplomatic visa to travel to the beach or resort on vacation, your visa can be revoked, and your chances of re-entering the country will drop drastically. This rule would probably be more lenient for those with a work visa. Since people with a work visa are typically staying in a foreign country for multiple years at a time, it won’t hurt a work visa holder to go on a vacation within the country once in a while. As for student visa travelers, make sure you have a letter from your institution abroad and back home approving of your need to stay past 90 days. These reasons will more than likely need to be for academic purposes, so if you want to remain in the country for new reasons, make sure to get a new visa.

Get Married

The ultimate way to extend your visa is by marriage. Getting married to a European allows you to get a visa that will last you for life and will enable you to apply for the citizenship of the country you will travel. This option is not recommended unless you have sincere intentions to marry your partner. There have been situations where people get married for the sole purpose of being able to stay for as long as they want in their country of choice, which often doesn’t end well.

Agreement Between Countries

Certain countries have an agreement with the US that allow people to stay in their country past 90 days without a visa. One of these countries is France, which has a two-way agreement that disregards the Schengen visa laws for American citizens. The agreement allows US citizens to stay up to 180 days without a visa. This law was written before the Schengen Area rules, which helps the US and France to disregard it between each other. Given this, make sure not to overstay or search for loopholes to stay longer since it is already a privilege to stay longer than most countries without a visa.

How to Replace Your Damaged Passport After a Storm

Posted on by Lloyd C

Are you a victim of a storm and lost all your important documents, including a passport? If you, we are going to provide you with a guide on how to replace your passport after a storm. Since you are not new to the process, you will submit some of the same documents you did when you applied for the first time.

Replacing a Damaged Passport

To replace a damaged passport, which means you still have it in your possession, you must complete the form and include the supporting documents. The supporting documents are papers showing proof of citizenship and identity.

So, to apply, include all these documents to replace your damaged passport:

Minors Applying for a Passport

  • All the documents mentioned above
  • Both parents must be present to submit the application
  • Form DS-3053 (completed by absent parent/guardian)
  • Form DS-5525 (completed by the parent/guardian applying if the absent parent is not available, proof of missing must be given)

The application must be given in person at an acceptance facility.

Replacing a Lost Passport

Applicants, including adults and minors, who were not able to recover their passport must apply in person to replace the lost passport. To apply, include:

Apply in Person

You can submit your application in person at any facility authorized by the State Department. Most of these facilities offer standard and expedited processing, which can take 2-6 weeks before you get a new passport. However, if you will travel sooner, make an appointment at one of the regional passport agencies.

Passport Fee

The cost will vary on service and applicant. Here is the list of the price you will pay:

PassportApplicationExecutionServiceTotal Cost
Adult$110$35Standard: $0$145
Minor$80$35Standard: $0$115
Adult$110$35Expedited: $60$205
Minor$80$35Expedited: $60$175

 

Study Abroad Australia – Why Study Abroad in Australia?

Posted on by Lloyd C

Australia is the third most popular destination for study abroad for international students (behind the U.S. and U.K.). Apart from the outback bush, kangaroos, and the great barrier reef, this country has plenty more to offer.

Australia has one of the best educational systems in the world. For it, many international students are requesting study abroad in the down under. The country is also known for its scientific research. With new technology and innovations, students will have great experiences in the field.

Recognizing Australia

Due to its education system, Australia has gained global recognition. Most graduates from universities are getting hired by major companies. Constant government regulations have kept the school system in high standards. This is one reason students are flocking to Australia.

Education Diversity

Australia universities offer a variety of majors. As a study abroad student, you can select from any of the courses that fit your program. Also, apart from the universities, you can choose vocational education or English language studies. If you decide to change a school, you have the advantage of going to another that best suits you.

Work While in School

If you would like to work while in school, Australia allows study abroad students to work up to 20 hours per week while in school. Earning some income while in school can always help when you go on trips or just having fun. Also, it is another way of getting experience in your field of study.

Cost of Living in Australia

Australia’s cost of living is among the lowest when compared to the other two most sought out study abroad countries. Since students can work while studying in Australia, cutting their expenses is easier. Study abroad students also have scholarships that are available to them to help reduce their costs.

So, selecting Australia is one of the best decisions you will ever make to study abroad. Selecting Australia is just one of the many choices you must make. Now, you can decide how to choose a study abroad housing.

 

How to Choose Study Abroad Housing?

Posted on by Lloyd C

Now that you have made it official to study abroad deciding where you are going to stay is not an easy decision. You will come across three options: a dorm, homestay, or an apartment. Each will provide its own experience. Get some advice before you decide.

Dorms

Going to a new country alone can become overwhelming. Especially if you are not familiar with the culture and language. This one reason some students who will study abroad prefer to stay on campus. The adventure of traveling to a new place can be scary. So, why do if you don’t need to.

However, living in dorms will also have some challenges. Most often, you will be paired with at least one person when you live in a dorm. Your roomie can be from any country in the world. So, you must learn to live with a stranger and share the space and everything that comes with it.

Homestay

If you are ready to learn about the culture and language, homestay is what you want. You get to live with a family and gain experience of how each person day by day.

You get to build a relationship you never expect to have in another living environment. Apart from the culture and language, you also get firsthand experience of places you may not seek to adventure if living in a dorm or apartment. Even speak the language.

For most students who have the host language as a major, it is the best way to learn the language in such a short time. This experience will go a long way.

Apartment

Are you ready to be independent? If you are, getting an apartment and living on your own will give you all the alone time you want. Your university will surely provide you with the information you need to get an apartment. Try and stay within reasonable distance to the college you will attend.

Apartments also offer many experiences. Most often, you will have students living in the same building or area. So, you will find yourself hanging out in the same restaurants, clubs, or at the beach.

In any case, the option your choice to stay for your study abroad will provide enough experiences for a lifetime. Keep in mind that you want to have the best outcome during your study abroad by selecting the option that will give peace of mind while you get all the joy of studying abroad.

Adaptability – Get used to Change and Adapt to your New Environment

Posted on by Lloyd C

Moving to a new city in the states can be scary, let alone a new country. So, if you plan to study abroad, do as much research about the place you plan to call home for the next few months.

Get Prepare Before the Big Move

Part of gathering information is to speak to people that have done what you are about to embark on. Get their perspective of what to expect. Asked as many questions. Use their experiences, good and bad, and learn from them.

In addition to getting it straight from the horse’s mouth, research the place. Get to understand the culture, lifestyle, and language. Communicating is a big part of the key to adaptability. The language may be the same but how you interact may open more doors than you can handle.

Understand the Culture to Adapt

If your choice of studying abroad is an English-speaking country, then you might be familiar with the culture. Still, do your homework. Communicating may not be the problem but understanding how things are done is essential.

Like the U.S., many countries have plenty of people who migrated from another country. So, if you are moving to a predominantly culturally environment, like for example an Indian community, know some of their culture and as well as the country you plan to stay.

Commuting

Knowing how to get around is very important. As a student, you are surely living on a budget and must make your money stretch. Look for the cheapest and safer way to get around. Some cities are best for getting around on bikes or mopeds. Use public transportation when possible. It is another inexpensive way of moving from one place to another.

Working

If you can find a job, that would be perfect. Earning some money will help you to adopt more easily. You would be interacting more and getting to meet more people. Understand the culture and language. Also, you will have a chance to tour the country and see more than just the campus. Make sure you have the documentation that allows you to work. You don’t want to do anything that may jeopardize your study abroad or worse, get you into trouble with the law.

So, study abroad can be a little scary if you have never been outside the U.S. Like anything else, you must prepare yourself before you embark on this life-changing experience. Know where you are going. Seek advice from students who went before you. Understand that everyone may have a different experience. The more prepared ones will have a different story from those that did not. Keep in mind you are going to a new country, educate yourself before going. Make your experience a memory you will never forget.