Student Safety Abroad: Practical Tips for Everyday Life

Short answer: Safety abroad comes down to simple habits: keep copies of your documents separately, never transfer rent money in advance without seeing the property, know the emergency numbers and keep your family informed about where you are.

Before you arrive

• Store electronic copies of your passport, visa, offer letter and insurance in cloud storage.
• Note the contact details of your country's embassy or consulate.
• Learn the local emergency number (112 in the European Union).
• Save your university's security service number in your phone.

Protect yourself from housing scams

Rental scams are among the most common problems students face. Warning signs:

• the price is far below the market rate;
• the landlord is "abroad" and cannot show you the property;
• a deposit is requested before you have seen the property or signed a contract;
• payment is requested through money transfer services or cryptocurrency.

University halls and official housing platforms are safer options.

In everyday life

• Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas; use licensed taxis or public transport where possible.
• Keep an eye on your phone and wallet in crowded places.
• Meet new acquaintances in public places.
• Share your address and daily plans with someone you trust.

Online safety

• Do not trust calls or emails saying "you have a visa problem, pay now". Official bodies do not ask for payment this way.
• Turn on two-factor authentication for your bank and university accounts.
• Share your passport details only on official websites.

In an emergency

1. If you are in danger, call the local emergency number immediately.
2. If you lose your documents, report it to the police and contact your embassy.
3. Inform your university's international student office; they will guide you.

For health matters, see: healthcare for students abroad.

EDDE Global

EDDE Global briefs students on arrival and their first weeks before they leave. Free consultation: konsultasiya.eddeglobal.az.