TRAVEL PLAN

Passports

Your passport proves your citizenship. It is the most important document when outside of your country. Check your current passport to make sure it does not expire within six months of your planned return to Hong Kong.

If you do not have a passport or need to renew the one you have, apply as soon as possible. Allow at least six weeks for regular processing.

Visa

Visas are issued by the consulate or embassy of the destination country. Students are advised to contact the appropriate consular offices of their host country once they have been nominated to a partner institution to establish whether a visa is required and what are the application procedures. In all cases where a visa is required, you will need the acceptance documents from the host institution before you can apply.

Please note that visas are not the responsibility of HKUST; it is the responsibility of students. Visa requirements vary from country to country. The name on your passport is the legal name under which you may travel. It is advisable to use the name on your passport for your visa applications and flight bookings.

Special notes for non-local student:

If you are a non-local student studying at HKUST on a student visa, you must ensure that the validity period of your Hong Kong visa covers the exchange period. In general, Hong Kong student visas issued to degree-seeking UG students cover the entire four years of the study period. However, if your Hong Kong student visa expires while you are completing your exchange studies overseas, please remember to have it renewed before you depart for the host institution.

Itinerary

Flights should be booked ahead of time, especially if you plan to travel during the peak seasons. For students participating in overseas learning programs, we advise you consider the following:

• Do not purchase your flight ticket until you have received official acceptance from your host institution
• Try to buy a ticket that allows you the flexibility to change dates free of charge
• How much baggage you will take and whether the ticket has an excess baggage allowance for students, or what are the rates charged for excess baggage
• Shop around and make reservations early

International Student Identity Card

Your HKUST student ID may not be honored in some countries. The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) gives students a single document recognized worldwide as proof of student status. ISIC cards can be applied from the International Student Identity Card Association.

The benefits of ISIC vary widely from country to country, but may include student discounts on airfares, transport and accommodation, and discounts on admission to museums, theaters, cultural events and other attractions.