International Information

Visa

U.S. Government Entry Requirement for Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Countries Effective 20 January 2011, citizens of Visa Waiver countries will be unable to enter the United States without Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval from the U.S. Government. VWP travelers who have not obtained approval through ESTA will be denied boarding on any air carrier destined for the United States. For more information, visit the VWP program website.

It is strongly recommended that international participants apply for visas at least 3 months prior to the Meeting. Note: Some consulates may have delays in scheduling visa interviews; therefore, applicants should first contact the consulate to determine the wait time for an interview. Additional information on business visas can be found at the DOS Business Visa Center website and at the IVO website. The U.S. Department of State maintains a comprehensive website containing information about traveling to the United States. The National Academies website has additional information about traveling to the United States and obtaining a visa.

Letters of Invitation

Any person traveling to the United States who requires a passport or invitation letter should check with the appropriate Embassy to determine exactly what is necessary to permit travel to the U.S. We will be pleased to provide you with an invitation letter upon request.

Please note that we cannot provide letters of invitation to spouses, children, or others who will be accompanying you on the trip but not attending the Meeting as registered attendees.

Please click here to request an invitation letter.

Health and Insurance

The registration fees do not include insurance. It is recommended that all registrants consult their travel agent and take out their own travel and medical insurance prior to coming to the meeting. The Organizing Committee cannot accept responsibility for uninsured participants.

Currency and Taxes

All transactions are based on US currency (dollars and cents). Denominations are $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100. Coins are 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents. There are several branches of US Banks within walking distance of the UIUC campus; however, it is recommended that foreign currency be exchanged at Chicago O’Hare or Dallas International Airport before arriving in Champaign. The State of Illinois assesses taxes on most services and goods and these taxes are typically included in the price of the goods purchased. There will be no taxes added to your conference fee.