Visa Information

Check out this page to ensure your journey to the WSSFN 2024 Congress is smooth, stress-free, and well-organized.

Find out how to prepare your visa in time for your trip to Chicago

IMPORTANT – We encourage foreign participants to apply for their visas as early as possible. Some consulates may have backlogs in scheduling visa interviews. Therefore, applicants should first consult the U.S. Department of State’s visa appointment and processing wait times website.

Further information on business visas can be found at the U.S. Department of State Business Visa Center website and the IVO website – the National Academies International Visitors Office (IVO). The International Visitors Office assists international students, scholars, and other travelers who are coming to the United States for scientific purposes. The IVO additionally provides resources to the broader scientific community on visa interview preparation, travel to the United States, and international conference organizing.

If you are experiencing significant visa delays, please fill out the visa survey here. This will bring your case to the attention of the U.S. Department of State.

Visa processes and customs

Visa regulations depend on your nationality and country of origin. We suggest you contact your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate for full and official instructions on the specific visa regulations and application procedures that apply to you.

It is the responsibility of the participant to obtain a visa if required.

Click on the links below for more useful information:

Immigration and Checkpoints Authority
Websites of U.S. Embassies, Consulates, Diplomatic Missions, and Offices Providing Consular Services – Check the mission closest to you
Immigration Visas Info – Visa Resources

How to Enter the United States

Learn about the most common types of visas for business, student, or travel you may need when coming to or traveling through the United States, plus review what other documents you need to enter the U.S. Also, find information on how to apply for an immigrant visa.

Procedures for Entering the United States

A visa is a document that allows a foreign citizen to travel to the United States and ask for permission to enter. However, having a visa doesn’t guarantee entry. The Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection officers at the airport have the power to decide if you can enter or not. If you’re allowed in, they’ll give you a stamp or a paper form as proof. You can find more information about entry requirements, restrictions on bringing certain items, and other details on the CBP website.

For International Visitors

Get the information you need to smoothly navigate the process and procedures if you are a visitor to the United States, coming to work, study, conduct business, or to immigrate.

Visa Invitation Letter

An invitation letter is available to registered participants. Your Registration ID and email are required to receive an invitation letter. You can find the link to the visa letter portal in your registration confirmation. Please email reg_wssfn24@kenes.com to receive your letter or for more information.

For details, click the button below to visit the official website of the United States government

Click Here