Visitor Visas
Most visitors to the U.S. require a visa to enter the country, unless they are coming from a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program and possess a Machine-Ready Passport (MRP). In order for most international participants to attend the Annual Meeting, participants will need to secure a visitor visa through the U.S. Department of State. This process may need to begin months ahead of your trip. Consult Visa Services for detailed information about the procedure and view the list of U.S. Embassies and Consulates Web Sites. It is also helpful to review the visa wait times for visa appointments.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP) New Requirement Effective January 19, 2009
Travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries are required to complete a web-based application at least 72 hours prior to departure. Click here to submit application. Effective January 19, 2009 all travelers from VWP countries will be required to obtain an ESTA approval prior to boarding a carrier for travel by air or sea to the United States under the VWP.
Letter of Invitation
Request the Letter of Invitation to our Annual Meeting in order to assist you in your visitor visa process.
Machine-Readable Passports MRPs are now required for travelers from all 27 VWP countries at the U.S. port of entry in order to enter the U.S. without a visa. Other foreign citizens will need a nonimmigrant visa.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Review arrival and departure information on the U.S. Customs Web Site to prepare yourself for these procedures.
Visa Issues
If you have any specific problems, please contact the Bureau of Counselor Affairs at businessvisa@state.gov.
