Before You Leave for Mexico

Gather Important Documents and Make Copies

Make sure to have a copy of your passport page and visa, health insurance information (if applicable) and copies of your credit cards in case they are lost or stolen. We recommend providing a family member or friend with a copy of the documents, and removing all non-essential items from your wallet. Do not carry your actual passport with you after you arrive unless required by law in certain countries. 

 

Complete Your Forms and Registrations

1. Complete the MISTI Health and Safety Canvas course, your program manager will alert you when to do so.
2. Pick up your MISTI Emergency Card at MISTI
3. Once you have your flights and housing all set, register your trip with the MIT Travel Registry
4. Complete the Pre-Travel Health Assessment Form in the MISTI student portal: 
5. Register for security updates with ISOS and download the app.
6. If you are a US citizen, register with the U.S. Department of State STEP program.
7. If you are an international student, make sure to check in with the International Students Office (ISO) to make sure you can return to MIT after your trip

Health Precautions

1. Visit the MIT Travel Health Clinic 6-8 weeks before travel to 
   1. Make sure you are current with all of your routine vaccinations
   2. Get any additional vaccinations or information you may need
   3. Get advice if you have allergies
   4. Get specific advice depending on the country you are traveling to
2. Locate hospitals or clinics near where you will be. Call ISOS to find out!
3. ISOS has a list of worldwide Assistance Centers.
4. The CDC also provides valuable health recommendations specific to your destination:
   1. General travel health info
5. Be aware that laws pertaining to prescription medications may be different in different countries.
   1. Some medications that are legal in the U.S. may not be legal in other countries. Carrying them may lead to detention or arrest.
   2. If you have a need to carry a particular medication, consult with ISOS for advice and then check with your medical care provider to see if a suitable replacement is available at your destination.
   3. The U.S. Customs and Border Patrol provides info on traveling into the U.S. with prescription medications.
6. Carry a doctor’s letter describing allergic conditions and any instructions for emergency care

Protect your data

• Before you travel
  • Back up your laptop
  • Back up your mobile device
  • Secure your computer
  • Test your software
  • Plan for connectivity
  • Check all necessary chargers and cables
• While traveling
  • Never leave your device unattended
  • Whenever possible use the MIT VPN client
  • Check your mobile device settings
• After you travel
  • Perform a full virus-scan of your computer
  • Reset any e-mail automatic replies or voicemail greetings