First and foremost, we recommend applying for a visa (if needed) as soon as possible. Use the link below to check current visa wait times. *Please note that visa wait times are currently extended.*
Applying for a Visa
Business (B-1) visas are typically the visa type used for attending educational conferences. However, as this is not always the case, we recommend checking with your local embassy or consulate to confirm your visa type prior to beginning your application. Similarly, we strongly recommend starting the visa application process as soon as possible to ensure everything is in order. Other tools and information helpful to the visa application process can be found linked below.
- Business Visa Center
- Check Visa Wait Times
- Visa Wizard
- Locate Your U.S. Embassy or Consulate
- Visa FAQs
How to Apply:
There are several steps one must take to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate Website to ensure all steps are completed.
Questions about visas or the application process can be sent to businessvisa@state.gov or by phone at +1(202) 485-7675 on Monday-Friday, from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Eastern.
Visa Waiver Programs
If you are attending the Annual Meeting from a Visa Waiver Country, you must meet all the requirements listed on the State Department’s page, ensure your Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is up to date, and have an e-passport ready to use.
- Visa Waiver Program Information
- Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)
- Information on e-Passports
- FAQs on the Visa Waiver Program and ESTA
COVID-19
For the latest on COVID-19 and international travel, please visit the CDC website.
Other Resources
Annual Meeting Invitation Letter:
Invitation letters can be provided to all participants listed on the official program (members and non-members). If you are not presenter or participant on the Annual Meeting program, please use your meeting registration receipt as supporting documentation for your visa application where needed.
*Please note that invitation letters are intended for visa application purposes only. If you require a letter for any other circumstances, please review the information on justification letters below.
Annual Meeting Justification Letter:
APSA understands that with tight travel budgets, obtaining permission to attend conferences from your university or organization can be difficult. The justification letters linked below can be used to help describe the benefits of attending the APSA Annual Meeting. Please select the one that best applies to your situation and edit as needed to fit you personally.
- Letters for APSA Members
- Letters for Non-Members
Access Your Registration Receipt:
When registration opens, receipts are emailed at time of purchase, but can be accessed again under your MyAPSA account. Receipts can be found under “Recent Orders” by clicking the “View” icon next to the appropriate receipt.