Note: Passport requirements are subject to change, for the most current information, please visit the U.S. Department of State .
How do I apply for a passport?
To find the nearest location to apply for a passport, visit the Passport Acceptance Facility Search Page on the U.S. Department of State web site.
To submit a U.S. Passport Application in person, you will need the following:
- Application printed but not signed. Complete Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport. DO NOT sign the application form until you meet with the official at the post office, they must witness your signature.
- Certified copy of your birth certificate (can be purchased at the county courthouse if you were born in Texas).
- Identification: Driver’s license, state-issued identification with picture or Military ID.
- Two passport photos. Passport photos can be purchased at a number of places, including some post offices.
- Payment for your passport. Visit the U.S. Department of State for current fees.
How do I renew my passport?
You may renew your passport by mail if:
- Your passport was issued within the last 15 years;
- You were more than 16 years of age when it was issued;
- Your name is the same as it reads on the passport;
- If you do not meet these requirements, you must apply in person using the steps outlined above.
To renew your passport:
- Print and complete Form DS-82.
- Sign and date Form DS-82 on page 1 of the application.
- Mail completed form in a padded envelope to the address listed on the form, along with:
- Your most recent U.S. Passport
- Two Passport Photos
- Current Passport Fees
- A marriage certificate or court order (only if your current name is different from what was recorded in your most recent U.S. passport)
For more details, visit the U.S. Department of State web site.
Do I need a visa?
Some countries require a student visa for any length of stay if your primary purpose is education. Others require a student visa only if your stay is longer than six months.
Each country has its own rules and regulations concerning the visa application and how to go about it. Some visas are free for students, while others entail a fee. In some cases, you must go to the consulate of the host country, taking all supporting documents with you. (In most cases the consulate is located in Houston.) You can usually find all the information (and forms) you need at the government web site of the country concerned.
Note: Visa policies are subject to change; for the most current information please visit the government web site of the country you will be studying in.
Argentina - Consulate General of Argentina
Brazil - Consulate General of Brazil in Houston
Chile - Consulate General of Chile in Houston
China - Consulate of the People's Republic of China in Houston
Cyprus - Consulate General of Cyrpus in Washington, D.C.
Czech Republic - Embassy of the Czech Republic in Washington, D.C.
France - Consulate General of France in Houston
Germany - Consulate General of Germany in Houston
Italy - Consulate General of Italy in Houston
Japan - Consulate General of Japan in Houston
Korea - Consulate General of Korea in Houston
Mexico - Consulate General of Mexico in Houston
Philippines - Consulate General of the Philippines in Los Angeles
Spain - Consulate General of Spain
Turkey - Consulate General of Turkey
UK - UK Border Agency
Note: Visa policies are subject to change; for the most current information please visit the government web site of the country you will be studying in.
