International Members:
Important Visa Information

• For countries that are on the State Sponsors of Terrorism List, the State Department suggests applying for a visa six (6) to eight (8) months in advance.
• International members attending EB 2005 that require a letter of invitation should request it at least four (4) months in advance.
• International members who plan to attend EB 2005 who are not from countries on the State Sponsors of Terrorism List should apply for their visas at least three (3) months in advance.

To assist you with the Visa Application process:

• Ask for a letter of invitation at least four (4) months prior to the meeting. An Invitation Letter is automatically generated to international members that submit an abstract to EB 2005. If you require an additional letter of invitation from AAA or are an AAA member and will be attending the EB 2005 meeting but do not plan on submitting an abstract, click here to request an invitation letter from AAA.
• 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 visa 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 employement 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).

Related Links - Below are helpful links to various websites with general visa information. For information on application deadlines, AAA recommends that you contact your local embassy.

International Visitor's Office on the National Academies website offers useful information on obtaining a visa, including what to do in the event of a delay or denial. Also provides useful links to government agencies and organizations.

UnitedStatesVisas.gov is a new website from the U.S. Department of State and serves as an official source of U.S. visa policy and procedures.

Bureau of Consular Affairs provides links to U.S. Embassies and Consulates worldwide, travel warnings, and many other resources.

Visa Reciprocity and Country Documents Finder offers current information on fees the U.S. charges for nonimmigrant visas.

U.S. Department of State - Nonimmigrant Visas

Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Some foreign participants may not need visas if they are citizens of the countries on the VWP. Beginning October 26, 2004, ALL citizens of the Visa Waiver Program are required to have Machine-Readable Passports (MRP) in order to travel to the United States without a visa. Without a MRP, you will be required to apply for a visa. Beginning September 30, 2004, all foreign visitors (including Visa Waiver Program travelers) will be fingerprinted and photographed upon arrival in the United States.

Visa Problems For applications waiting more than thirty (30) days after their interview to receive notification, you can complete an online questionnaire for assistance.

AAA's Annual Meeting at EB 2005 will be held April 2-6 in San Diego, California. Click here for program, registration and housing information.