Passports and Visas

A passport is a travel document, usually issued by a country’s government, that certifies the identity and nationality of its holder primarily for the purpose of international travel. NC State is now an official U.S. passport acceptance facility open to students, employees and the public.

Please review the U.S. Department of State website thoroughly before visiting the NC State Passport Services office.

A visa is a certificate issued or a stamp marked (on the applicant’s passport) by the immigration authorities of a country to indicate that the applicant’s credentials have been verified and he or she has been granted permission to enter the country for a temporary stay within a specified period. This permission, however, is provisional and subject to the approval of the immigration officer at the entry point.

Visas can be issued for single entry: valid only for one visit OR multiple entry: valid for any number of visits within it’s validity period.

U.S. Citizens traveling abroad may or may not need a visa to a particular country depending on the length and purpose of the visit.