"Madrid is very accepting and I was quickly made aware of the inclusive nature that encouraged people to be their true selves throughout the city. For the first time ever I was confronted with tons of people around me who had relationships I always not used to seeing around me at home — relationships I identified more with. It made me feel more comfortable to express myself and my identity — an aspect I was not expecting to explore much abroad."
“In one of my classes I had a profoundly accepting experience. I genuinely felt I had a place in this class and people were really listening to what I had to say. I grew confident in my queer identity and knew I was not alone. I loved our queer-friendly space, and being surrounded by those who see the world the way I do. It makes such a difference.”
"I felt largely comfortable with my sexual orientation while abroad (in Switzerland) and even attended my first pride event in Geneva! It was such an amazing event and a memory I’ll hold dear forever."
“I highly recommend the Gender, Equity, and Sexuality class for anyone who wants to learn more about LGBTQIA+ history, as Scandinavia is rich with our people's history. It helped me to find others who identify like I do and also allowed me to expand my knowledge about the issues affecting my community, both past and present.”
Use the informations on this page to explore considerations, opportunities, and challenges related to traveling abroad as an LGBTQ+ individual.
As you consider and prepare for an international experience, use the following questions as a guide. Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list and you may relate to multiple identities. You are encouraged to discuss these topics in person with an education abroad advisor in your school or college. The Spectrum Center can also provide guidance and resources as you prepare for your experience.
RESOURCE
Download the LGBTQ+ Abroad flyer for additional questions and considerations for traveling abroad. Bring this resource with you when meeting with an academic advisor, education abroad advisor, or other U-M office.
Explore LGBTQ+ considerations in international travel by exploring the following resources:
LGBTQIA+ communities and experiences exist everywhere, but rights, cultural norms, and levels of acceptance can vary widely by country and may differ by city or region. Reviewing current laws and local attitudes early can help you choose a program where you can participate fully and make an informed plan about disclosure, privacy, housing, and daily life.
It can also help to look beyond country-level headlines and think about the specific setting you’ll be in (campus vs. host family, large city vs. smaller town, program housing vs. independent housing, classroom vs. work setting). When possible, ask your program or host institution what support is available, what reporting options exist if you experience bias or harassment, and whether there are inclusive resources (student groups, affirming services, community organizations) you can access.
Travel days and border crossings can require extra planning if your documents do not align with your gender identity or how you are perceived. When booking flights, use the name and date of birth exactly as they appear on the government-issued ID you plan to show, and keep key documents accessible (not in checked luggage). At airports, screening may involve a body scanner or pat-down, and items like binders, prosthetics, or medically necessary supplies can lead to extra screening; you may request private screening.
Entry practices and protections can vary by country. Before you travel, review entry guidance for your destination and think through a plan for privacy and safety at immigration (e.g. how you will present documents and answer questions). If you are considering updating your name and/or gender marker on travel documents, plan ahead for timelines and contact the Spectrum Center ([email protected]) for guidance.
