The Smith Center recognizes and honors that many students may face unique familial, financial, and/or personal barriers in the study abroad/away process. The Smith Center strives to remove as many barriers as possible. We are also committed to being realistic about the options for students who do not hold a US passport, including those who are undocumented, refugee students, and students who are US permanent residents or Green Card holders. We realize a student’s citizenship status is protected. We strongly encourage all students interested in studying abroad/away to meet with the Smith Center for a private conversation about their immigration status. Where possible, the Smith Center can support students to obtain proper travel documentation and immigration resources for their abroad/away program.
DACA students are eligible to study abroad/away through the U.S Department of Homeland Security Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals order. Students traveling for educational purposes can be granted advance-parole to enable them to study abroad/away. Although students can be granted permission to leave the country, there are many things to consider when choosing to study abroad/away. Students traveling on a non-US passport will have unique opportunities and challenges during their study abroad/away experience(s). We recognize there may be policy changes. Please consult the U.S Department of Homeland Security for the most up-to-date information.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Florida 1718 went into effect on July 1, 2023, restricting the ability of undocumented individuals to live and work in Florida. Undocumented students should be aware of the Florida law and its implications if they intended study away there for January Term or semester/year.
Helpful Links
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
NAFSA – DACA Student Resource Page
Immigrant Legal Resource Center – DACA
Undocumented Student Program at UC Berkeley – Travel Abroad for Undocumented Students
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services – Humanitarian or Significant Public Benefit Parole for Individuals Outside the United States
My Undocumented Life – Traveling Abroad with DACA
United We Dream – The largest immigrant youth-led network
*Disclaimer
This does not constitute legal advice. While the Smith Center is not able to provide any legal advice or advice for U.S. travel WE CAN connect you with the appropriate services to assist you.