VISA INFORMATION FOR SCIENTISTS TRAVELING TO THE UNITED STATES

As part of new security procedures, applications for visas are being sent to the State Department in Washington, D.C., where they are reviewed. We advise scientists traveling to the United States to apply for a visa as early as possible (at least three months before visa is needed). Please check with your local U.S. consulate or embassy to find out the earliest that you may apply. Because of the number of visas being processed and the need to be thorough with the reviews, this can take as long 8 weeks.

To assist you with this process:

• Ask for a letter of invitation to attend at least four (4) months prior to the meeting. Contact ncopen@faseb.org. Pre-registration is required.
• Apply for visa at least three (3) months in advance.
• Provide your entire trip itinerary, including travel to any countries other than the United States, at the time of visa application.
• If completion of travel plans is contingent upon early approval of the visa application, specify this at the time of the application.
• Provide proof of scientific status.
• Provide meeting brochure and letter of invitation.
• Provide evidence that you are intending to return to your country of residence. This includes such things as:
  • family ties in current country of residence
  • property ownership
  • bank account
  • an employment contract or statement from employer showing that position will continue after the dates of the meeting
• Requirements vary by passport-issuing country and citizenship (not merely residency).

For the most current requirements and those specific to your situation, please check with your local U.S. consulate or embassy or the U.S. Department of State Visa Services Information Web site at http://travel.state.gov/visa_services.html.