After you officially sign-up for your volunteer abroad program, you need to start preparing for the trip. Here is a list of the next steps you need to take:

5 things to do after signing-up for your volunteer abroad program:

1. Passport. Apply for your passport right away. You will obviously need it when you travel, but you will also need it to do things like book your flights and obtain visas. The processing time is usually 4-6  weeks once you submit your passport application.

2. Flights. Historically, the earlier you book your flights, the cheaper your fare will be. The window for buying the best international fares is 6 – 24 weeks. Start searching with Hipmunk and Yapta.

3. Fundraising. Start planning your fundraising efforts, which could include applying for scholarships, giving presentations to civic groups, and writing letters to family and friends.

4. Vaccinations. Consult with a travel medicine doctor at least two months before you departure. Some vaccines need to be given in a series, over a period of time.

5. Visa. The visa is the document issued by the host country giving you entry permission. Some countries do allow you to obtain the visa upon arrival. But If you’re going to a country that doesn’t, you’ll need to apply for the visa before you leave home.