A visa is a government-issued immigration document granted by a consulate general or embassy, which allows you to legally study in a specific country for a specific date range. Typically, a visa is an endorsed sticker or stamp placed on the inside pages of your passport. Your student visa is as important as your passport; without it you will not be able to study abroad, if required by your host country.

Every country has their own process, requirements, and fees for applying for a visa. Some countries may require you to travel to an in-person appointment at a consulate or embassy or some have online portals to apply for visas. You can find the most up-to-date visa information by contacting the consulate or embassy of your host country.

Many visa applications require you to certify a minimum level of finances while abroad. If you are a financial aid recipient and will attend a direct-enrollment program, you may need to provide a letter certifying financial support.

Being granted a visa is a privilege, not a right. A consular office may deny your visa application, so it is best to adhere to their requirements and apply as early as possible.

Here are 10 points necessary for anyone considering traveling and in need of an international travel visa. 

 1. International Visas: You need a passport

2. It all depends on the country

3. There are different types of visas 

4. Your health matters

5. Your history also matters—both travel and criminal

6. You often need proof of finances 

7. Processing times vary

8. It'll cost you

9. You have to show up

10. Have a home base address handy

11. There are resources to make your life a LOT easier