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 New Passport Requirements for Canada and Mexico
Beginning January 23, 2007, all citizens of Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the United States of America must have a passport (or another accepted secure document) to enter or re-enter the United States when traveling by air or sea. For more information, please contact the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Visa Application Process
Some Conference participants who live outside the continental United States must apply for a visa to enter the United States.
Recently, the U.S. has updated its visa policies to increase security for our citizens and visitors. We cannot overemphasize that advance planning by foreign travelers is critical. As soon as travel to the United States is contemplated, foreign travelers should determine if a visa is needed. Please note that visas can take three to four months from the time of application to be processed.
More information regarding visas and traveling to the U.S.
Requirements for travel to the United States change often, so please check the government link provided above to get the latest information. Be sure to apply at the appropriate location as early as possible before intended travel. You can check on-line for the wait times for appointments.
Qualifying for a Visitors (B1 or B2) Visa
The presumption in the law is that every applicant for a visitor visa is an intending immigrant. Therefore, applicants for visitor visas must overcome this presumption by demonstrating that:
- The purpose of their trip is to enter the U.S. for business (like attending the PHA Conference), pleasure, or medical treatment;
- They plan to remain for a specific, limited period;
- They have compelling social and economic ties to their home country;
- They have evidence of funds to cover expenses in the United States; and
- They have a residence in their home country as well as other binding ties which will insure their return to their home country at the end of the visit.
Basically, you will be required to show evidence that you maintain a permanent residence or have strong ties in your home country. Your approval is based on providing sufficient evidence that you will return to your home country.
Letter of Invitation
A “Letter of Invitation” is additional information that explains a visa applicant’s intended purpose of travel. While not required, such letters can sometimes help with the process. Consular officers look at the entirety of an applicant’s personal situation in determining visa eligibility. Supporting documents, such as a “letter of invitation,” are often useful, but are not decisive in determining an applicant’s visa eligibility. If you wish to receive a formal letter of invitation to PHA’s 8th International Conference, please click here. You may also request the letter of invitation in writing from:
Angie Slubowska
International Program Manager
international@PHAssociation.org
(fax) 301-565-3994
Additional tips:
- Be prepared to allow inkless fingerprinting and digital photographs upon entry to the U.S.
- Be accurate and specific in completing your application. If needed, attach an additional explanation letter.
- Attach evidence of your previous visits to the U.S. and of your intended return trip to your home country.
- Acquire a police clearance, if possible.
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