All SAI programs include support with travel and entry requirements to the host country. With more than 25 years of experience, we are ready to answer all of your questions and provide assistance with issues that might arise in the process.

Passports & Entry Requirements

All SAI programs require students to have a valid passport. Passport applications can take multiple months, so students are encouraged to apply for a passport (if needed) as early as possible.

If you need to apply for a new passport or renew a passport set to expire within 3 months of your program end date, please plan accordingly.

U.S. passport processing times can vary according to the U.S. Passport Agency. To see current passport processing times, see here (external link). SAI highly encourages expedited passport processing to ensure your new passport is received 3 months prior to your program start date, especially if your program requires a student visa. If your program does not require a visa please ensure you receive your passport at least 1 month prior to your program start.

The following are entry requirements for each country:*

Italy:

• Passports must be valid for at least 3 months after planned departure from the country.
• Student visa is required for U.S. students studying in Italy for 91 days or more. Those with Italian/EU citizenship are exempted. Non-US nationals should consult their local Italian Consulate for details on student visa requirements.
• Permit to Stay (Permesso di Soggiorno) is required for all students studying in Italy for 91 days or more and is completed after the student visa is received.

Spain:

• Passports must be valid for at least 3 months after planned departure from the country.
• Student visa is required for U.S. students studying in Spain for 91 days or more. Those with Spanish/EU citizenship are exempted. Non-US nationals should consult their local Spanish Consulate for details on student visa requirements.

France:

• Passports must be valid for at least 3 months after planned departure from the country.
• Student visa is required for U.S. students studying in France for 91 days or more. Those with French/EU citizenship are exempted. Non-US nationals should consult their local French Consulate for details on student visa requirements.

* Entry requirements can change without notice. Students must consult with the appropriate Consulate for final entry requirements.

Student Visas

SAI provides student visa advising to all SAI students. Detailed information can be found at the following links:

Italian Visas |  Spanish Visas  |  French Visas

For additional assistance contact the SAI office.

Travel Planning

SAI provides students with specific arrival and departure dates for their programs, as well as the window of time that SAI airport pickup is provided. Students should purchase tickets that arrive within their program’s airport pickup window to allow for a smooth transition into their program.

We encourage students to purchase tickets well in advance, but not prior to receiving their enrollment confirmation email.