[FOM] visas to attend US-based international conferences

[Kreinovich, Vladik]

Dear Friends,

In many situations, when a conference is organized in the US, some presenters do not get their visas by the time of the conference and are, therefore, unable to participate. In some such cases, the visa is eventually granted, but it is too late for this particular conference.

The National Academies of Sciences and professional organizations have been petitioning for changes in regulations which would make the process easier for scientists. However, while the current processes are in place, it is important to help scientists from outside the US properly estimate how long the visa approval process can last and what support material needs to be provided with the original applications to enhance this process.

Here is such an information as provided by the American Mathematical Society (we cite from
http://jointmathematicsmeetings.org/meetings/national/jmm2014/2160_faq):

"Visa regulations are continually changing for travel to the United States. Visa applications may take from three to four months to process and require a personal interview, as well as specific personal information. International participants should view the important information about traveling to the U.S. found at sites.nationalacademies.org/pga/biso/visas/ and travel.state.gov/visa/visa_1750.html.

...

If you discover you do need a visa, the National Academies website (see above) provides these tips for successful visa applications:

* Visa applicants are expected to provide evidence that they are intending to return to their country of residence. Therefore, applicants should provide proof of "binding" or sufficient ties to their home country or permanent residence abroad. This may include documentation of the following:

- family ties in home country or country of legal permanent residence

- property ownership

- bank accounts

- employment contract or statement from employer stating that the position will continue when the employee returns;

* Visa applications are more likely to be successful if done in a visitor's home country than in a third country;

* Applicants should present their entire trip itinerary, including travel to any countries other than the United States, at the time of their visa application;

* Include a letter of invitation from the meeting organizer or the U.S. host, specifying the subject, location and dates of the activity, and how travel and local expenses will be covered;

* If travel plans will depend on early approval of the visa application, specify this at the time of the application;

* Provide proof of professional scientific and/or educational status (students should provide a university transcript).

This list is not to be considered complete. Please visit the websites above for the most up-to-date information."