International Assistance & Letters of Invitation

Recommendations for International Travelers: 

  • Stay Informed: Regularly check official U.S. government websites, such as the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security, for the most current travel advisories and entry requirements. 
  • Allow Extra Time: Anticipate longer processing times for visa applications and security screenings at U.S. ports of entry. It is recommended to submit your Visa application when you submit to present at the Annual Meeting, a Branch Meeting, or when you register for the conference. Attendees should submit for a B-1 Visa
  • Review the Visa Waiver Program: The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries* to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. View the Visa Waiver Program
  • Prepare Documentation: Ensure all travel documents, including passports and visas, are valid and comply with U.S. entry requirements.
  • Printed Documents: If approved for travel, come prepared with a copy of your roundtrip ticket, hotel confirmation, registration confirmation, and letter of invitation.
  • Consult with Authorities: If uncertain about your eligibility to enter the U.S., contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance.
  • If you find you have to deal with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other law enforcement officers while traveling this factsheet also provides suggestions for what you should do to assert your rights.

Obtaining US Visas to attend an ESA Meeting (a scientific conference):

In general, international attendees to ESA meetings will need a Business (B-1) Visa to enter the US. Learn more about B-1 Visas.

Learn about the Visa requirements to enter the US and begin your application 

Request a Letter of Invitation for Entomology 2025
If you need a letter of invitation for a Branch Meeting, please contact the ESA Meetings Team at meet@entsoc.org.

Start your B-1 Visa application

Not sure what type of Visa you need? Complete the Visa Wizard to the find the correct one.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

A program run independently by the US State Department, the Visa Waiver Program enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries to travel to the US without first obtaining a Visa. This includes travel to attend a scientific conference. View more information as well as a full list of requirements (including passport and ESTA) and an updated list of participating countries.

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