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If you are preparing for a trip overseas in the future there are a few things that you need to consider:
If you do not already have a passport you will need to apply for one. Give yourself 6-8 weeks from the time you apply. You will need to have a notarized birth certificate to apply and the cost will be around $110.
Visa:
You will need to look into the need of a Visa at least 2 months before your departure. Not all countries require a Visa, so go to the U.S. Department of State web site and see if the country you are traveling to does.
Shots:
Certain countries will require you to have vaccinations before entering. Ask your doctor to check if you will need any.
Insurance:
Call your health insurance company and check if you are covered outside of the United States. If not you may wish to add a short- term policy in case of emergencies.
Before you leave the country it would be wise to contact your credit card company to inform them you will be traveling. This ensures that they do not put a hold on your card because of charges made outside of the U.S. Most major credit cards are accepted outside of the United States.
Emergencies:
Be sure that someone has a copy of your itinerary and passport. If anything should happen while you are overseas there is someone at home keeping track of you.
Once you have done all the ground-work, sit back and enjoy your trip.
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