CONGRATULATIONS! YOU HAVE A MATCH!

WHAT NOW?

After you have been matched there are quite some things you still have to do before you can go abroad. Here a quick overview.

1. CONTACT THE HOST LC. Most likely you already had some contact with your

hosting LC abroad. Make sure you stay in touch with them! Realize: you are not the first one arriving there; they know best what to bring and what not to bring, visa regulations (check 2.), and you will meet them once abroad.

2. VISA. Make sure your visa has been arranged in advance. This is highly dependent on

the country you are going to. The host LC probably knows what to do, and is likely to have the right documents. If you do not need any visa, make sure you double check that.

3. FLIGHTS. Try to book your flights as soon as possible after an official match has been

made. As a general rule: the earlier, the cheaper. Also double check the luggage regulations!

4. VACCINATIONS. For many countries outside of Europe vaccinations are

advised/required. Make sure you go abroad safely, and get the right shots + medication. Go to the ‘GGD’ or the ‘tropenpolie’ at the Havenziekenhuis (@Oostplein) to get the best advice. Please note that often you can declare the costs at your health insurance.

5. INSURANCE. For some countries a proof of insurance is part of the visa process. For

all countries it is a must to make sure you are well insured in case something happens. For the Dutch: try to get a collective one with your parents: much cheaper!

6. KNOW WHAT TO PACK. One of the biggest pitfalls is to pack too much. Make sure

you save one third of your suitcase for presents you can give to the locals. On the way back you can fill it with everything you take home!