Do I Need a Passport to Teach English Abroad & How Can I Get One?

Yes. To be granted entry into a foreign country, you must have a passport valid typically for at least 6 months after your entry into that country, and in some cases you may not be allowed entry into your destination country, or issued an entry visa, without holding a passport that will be valid for a full year. For extended travel and teaching English abroad, we recommend that you travel on a passport with at least 2 years of validity remaining. If you have any questions, you should contact the local consulate for the country you intend to travel to.

Where and how can I get a new passport or an extension to my old one?

U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens can apply  by mail or in-person, typically at major U.S. Post Office locations (check http://www.usps.com for locations.) If you are overseas (not in your home country), new passports can be obtained at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Detailed information about applying for a U.S. passport can be found at the U.S. State Department's Passport web page.

In the United States, processing a passport can take six weeks to three months. It is possible to have your passport rushed; however this can entail additional costs of up to $100 or more.

Canadians

Citizens of Canada can check the Passport Canada Website for step-by-step instructions for how to obtaining a passport in their home country or abroad. 

Australians

Australian can visit the Foreign Ministry's Passport Page to learn how to apply for or renew a passport. 

New Zealanders

Citizens of New Zealand can visit the Department of Internal Affairs Passport Website to learn how to apply for or renew a passport.

U.K. Citizens 

Visit the Home Office's Passport Identity and Passport Service Website to learn how to apply for a new passport.

Other Nationalities

Check the website for your ministry of foreign affairs or just use Google to ask where and how you can get a new or renewed passport for your nation.