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.

• Examine the laws and attitudes of your host country
  • How does my preferred host country view LGBTQ+ individuals?
  • How will being “out” affect my legal rights?
  • How might laws and cultural norms in my host country affect my ability to express my identity?

• Consider the cultural attitudes of your host country
  • What is my host culture’s perspective on gender identity (binary, non-binary, etc.) and gender roles?
  • How might being “out” affect the relationships I form in my host country?

• Research health and safety considerations
  • Is it safe for me to be openly “out” or expressive of my identity in my preferred host country?
  • Will I have the same access to medications as I do in the United States?

• Seek out your community
  • Is there a local LGBTQ+ community I can connect with abroad?

According to the U.S. Government, “some transgender travelers have reported difficulties entering a country on a passport bearing a name and photo that no longer correspond to their gender identity.” To avoid this, several offices on campus offer guidance and financial assistance in updating your name and/or gender marker on your passport. If you would like to update your gender marker, please reach out to the Spectrum Center (spectrumcenter@umich.edu) for guidance.

If you take medication, keep in mind that there are various prescriptions as well as over-the-counter drugs that, although legal in the United States, are prohibited in other countries. Check the legality of your medication with the embassy of the specific country you are traveling to. Even if your medications are legal, for safety reasons, it is recommended to have documentation on the type of drug you are bringing, including your doctor’s prescription if applicable. Keep in mind that your medication may not be available in your host country. You are highly encouraged to work with your doctor and insurance to secure medication for the entire duration of your international experience. If you cannot do so, speak to your doctor for best steps.

Many of the resources available to you on campus are also available during your time abroad. These include, but are not limited to, the following: Your education abroad advisor and academic advisor, U-M Counseling and Psychological Services (www.caps.umich.edu), as well as resources offered by your international host institution and your health care provider.

In addition, we also encourage you to find an LGBTQ+ community in your host country. Getting involved in local LGBTQ+ communities is a way to feel a sense of belonging and support, as well as a great way to meet locals, learn more about your host culture, and immerse yourself fully into your host country. In most international cities and universities, you can find resources, meeting places, and social groups for LGBTQ+ students. We encourage you to do research prior to departing and speak to your education abroad advisor to find resources in your host community.

Every culture has its own set of norms, laws, and attitudes about LGBTQ+ individuals. Many countries are very accepting of LGBTQ+ persons, while others are less tolerant. These varying attitudes make it essential to consider how identifying as LGBTQ+ can impact your experience abroad, including how it could positively or negatively affect your health, safety, and well-being as you travel. Before choosing an overseas destination, consider the local context and how you will manage your LGBTQ+ identity in that setting.

Several U-M students who traveled abroad have found it helpful to disclose their identity to their education abroad advisor and/or host school. This will assist in finding a roommate that can act as an ally to LGBTQ+ identities. Know that it is ultimately your choice whether or not you disclose your identity to the host school.