Depending on where you live, certain entry requirements must be met to visit the United States. While some travelers need only a valid passport, most require a visa.
The type of visa required by U.S. immigration law depends on the purpose of your visit. Unless they qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program, most meeting attendees require a U.S. Visitor Visa (B-1).
Visitor visa
For travel to the United States to conduct temporary business.
If you require a U.S. visa to attend the ECS Meeting in Chicago, Il, we recommend starting the application process three to four months in advance of the meeting. As some U.S. consulates have backlogs in scheduling visa interviews, applicants should first consult the U.S. Department of State’s visa appointment and processing wait times website.
Visit U.S. Visa Information for Foreign Travelers for further information.
- Apply early—at least three to four months before your planned travel date!
- Complete the application fully and accurately.
- Provide evidence of your intention to return to your country of residence, and/or binding or sufficient ties to your home country or permanent residence abroad.
- Provide proof of professional scientific and/or educational status, ECS membership, and meeting registration.
- Request an ECS Letter of Invitation to receive an invitation letter on ECS letterhead via email.
- If the application center requires an in-person interview, dress professionally, and prepare for your interview by being able to describe your intentions clearly and concisely.
Request an ECS Letter of Invitation
Citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program do not require visas for short visits to the U.S. for temporary business. Travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program requires ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) approval.
For assistance with international travel questions, email meetings@electrochem.org.
