International Visitors to the United States
Passport Information
Applicants for US Visas Do Not Need to Leave Passport with Consular Officer
Consular Officers do not need to retain applicants’ passports. Print this letter and bring it to your visa interview.
Visa Problems
Learn what causes visa application delays and how to report them.
US Government Sites
International Collaborations
APS looks forward to welcoming international attendees to our meetings and events, such as the March and April Meetings and Division events. To travel to the United States to attend these events, you will likely need to obtain a visa. APS has compiled resources to assist you in the process of obtaining a visa, and while we make every attempt to keep this page up-to-date, please note that regulations may change. The best resources for accurate information about the visa application process are US government websites.
APS cannot intervene with US Embassies or consulates abroad or with the US State Department on behalf of any member or APS meeting attendee.
Visa Application Process for Non-US Citizens/Residents
Visa Types
Generally, non-US citizens/residents must obtain a nonimmigrant B-1/B-2 visa to enter the United States for a temporary visit.
Visa Waiver Program
Under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), citizens of certain countries may travel to the United States for stays of ninety days or less without a visa. Anyone traveling under VWP must apply for authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
Set Up Your Visa Interview
If you are not eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program, you may be required to appear at a US embassy or consulate for an in-person interview prior to visa approval. There may be long waits to schedule an interview, so start the application process as early as possible.
What to Bring to Your Visa Interview
- A valid passport.
Note: Consular Officers do not need to retain your passport. Print this letter and bring it to your interview.
- The online nonimmigrant visa application (Form DS-160) confirmation page.
- Specific and detailed explanations related to your purpose for travel.
Example: Copy of your APS Meeting Letter of Invitation.
- Complete travel itineraries and schedules if appropriate.
Note: Airline ticket proof of purchase is not a required item for documenting your trip itinerary.
- Proof of an existing relationship with your inviter, APS, or other US entities.
Example: Copy of your APS meeting registration.
- An explanation of how your visit will be funded.
- Your curriculum vitae (CV).
Visa Interview Appointment Wait Times
The US Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs provides wait times for visa interview appointments for every US Consulate worldwide.
Administrative Processing
Some applications require additional "administrative processing" and this adds several weeks to the application process. Applicants involved in scientific fields are often subjected to administrative processing and should apply for visas as early as possible, preferably three to four months in advance. Bring your CV and letter of invitation to the visa interview to help facilitate any additional processing.
Visa Delays
Information on what to do if your application is delayed excessively, and tips to avoid problems and delays.
Entering the United States
Information on the Visa Waiver Program, the Office of Biometric Identity Management (OBIM), US Customs and Border Protection, and the Department of Homeland Security's Travel Redress Inquiry Program.
Temporary Visits
Making a Temporary Visit Outside of the US
Visitors currently in the United States who plan to temporarily visit their home country and reapply for a US visa should make some of their return preparations before leaving the United States.
Information for
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