Microbiology Lab in the Kingdom of Smiles
U.S. Department of State
The U.S. Department of State advances the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity, by leading America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance. Visit the U.S. Department of State website for country-specific travel information.
- Program Orientation
- Travel Arrangements
- On Site Transportation
- Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens
- Entry Requirements for Non-U.S. Citizens
- Insurance
- LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Program Orientation
Pre-Departure Orientation
There will be a program-specific orientation with the instructor and/or program provider at UC Davis. This orientation addresses travel, packing, academics, health and safety, and more. It also provides you the opportunity to meet with others on your program. Prior to orientation, you will receive a Program Specific Guide that will further support program preparation.
On-Site Orientation
Soon after arrival to the program destination, you will have an on-site orientation. The on-site orientation serves to introduce you to the new environment as well as provide on-site resources and support.
Travel Arrangements
You are responsible for making your own travel arrangements to the program site. Detailed instructions for making flight arrangements are sent to enrolled students via email once the program is confirmed. Wait to purchase plane tickets until you receive this email. Instructions on how to get to the program accommodations will be included in your Program Specific Guide.
Bangkok is the #1 most visited city in the world! This is partially due to its incredible opportunities, as well as the fact that Suvarnabhumi Airport has become a major transit hub for all of Southeast Asia. As such, there is a wealth of information on traveling to and within Thailand.
On Site Transportation
Transportation for program activities and excursions is included in the program fees. Travel and transportation outside program activities is not provided. Transportation during program excursions may include air travel, boat travel and public transportation. Student accommodations are approximately a 15 minute walk from the host university.
Students are strongly discouraged from using motor bikes while on the program. For more information please see the Program Specific Risk Advisories (PDF).
Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens
A passport with at least 6 months validity past the end date of the program is required for this program.
You will need a tourist visa to enter Thailand. You can receive a 30 day visa upon arrival in Bangkok. As UC Davis Summer Abroad programs are not affiliated with a host university, you will enter as a tourist - and can travel in Thailand for 30 days if you are a U.S. citizen. The State Department website shows the requirements for travel for U.S. citizens.
If you will stay in Thailand longer than 30 days, you will need to apply for a 60 or 90 day tourist visa. Visas typically cost around $80 and grant you 60 or 90 days in the country. Instructions on applying for a visa: Thai Consulate of Los Angeles.
Ultimately, securing a visa is your responsibility. Do not wait until the last minute—the visa should be applied for around two months before departure
Entry Requirements for Non-U.S. Citizens
A passport is required for this program.
Non-U.S. citizens should check for visa and other entry requirements by contacting the consulate of their travel destination(s) (see links below). Participants are responsible for obtaining their own visa. Summer Abroad will supply a verification of enrollment or other necessary documents for non-U.S. citizens upon request.
International students in the United States on an F-1 or J-1 visa interested in studying abroad, should ensure the US visa in their passport has at least 90 days validity remaining whenever they travel abroad. If the US visa expires or is about to expire (even if the I-20 is current), students may be required to apply for the visa to their study abroad country in their home country.
Non-US citizens unable to gain access to the study abroad country will be subject to cancellation fees as shown in the cancellation schedule. For this reason, international students are highly encouraged to research entry to their destination country well in advance, and before enrolling in the program if possible.
Insurance
Participants are enrolled in GeoBlue Global Health Insurance and UC Traveler Insurance for the duration of the program and will be provided with specific coverage information. More details about coverage is available in the Health & Accident Insurance section of our Health and Safety Resources.
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
You are encouraged to learn more about the country and host culture prior to departure. Resources: Equaldex—LGBT Rights in Thailand, ILGA World Maps, and ILGA World Database. Please contact the program coordinator for further support and resources.