Guide to Visas

Traveling Abroad? Expecting international visitors? Have questions about visas? Read below for information and links to help you navigate the visa process.

Sister Cities International staff can advise member organizations on the visa process, but staff cannot apply for visas for your delegation.

  1. U.S. Citizens Traveling Abroad
  2. Foreign Citizens Traveling to the U.S.
  3. Resources from Sister Cities International
  4. Other Resources
  5. Visa FAQ's

  1. U.S. Citizens Traveling Abroad
    Visa Application Tips
    • Obtain visa applications, information and documentation requirements from the embassy or consulate of the country you are traveling to.
    • Procedures and deadlines can vary widely from country to country, so always apply for visas as early as possible (six months in advance may be necessary in some circumstances).
    • Carefully read instructions on visa application forms and fill them out fully and neatly. Make sure you enclose any requested documentation with the forms and mail them well in advance of your trip.

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  2. Foreign Citizens Traveling to the U.S.
    Visa Application Tips
    • Obtain visa applications, information and documentation requirements from the U.S. embassy in the particular country.
    • Make an appointment to visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Visa application procedures vary somewhat among Embassies and Consulates, depending on local needs. In most countries, you will need to make an appointment. This can be done by telephone, mail, over the Internet, or in person, depending on circumstances in your country. Wait times for appointments may be longer than in the past. Schedule your appointment as soon as you know you need to travel to the U.S.
    • Be sure to ask what fees are required and how they can be paid. Application fees are non-refundable and must be paid before your appointment.
    • Apply early as visa waiting times can vary. For approximate waiting times visit: http://travel.state.gov/visa/tempvisitors_wait.php
    • If foreign visitors are traveling as part of a federally funded grant, please check with your grant manager for more information about visa procedures.

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  3. Resources from Sister Cities International
    J-1 Visa Application Information - Used for international secondary students visiting the U.S. for one year of academic study www.sister-cities.org/icrc/sciprograms/J-1

    Public Policy Discussion About Visas www.sister-cities.org/icrc/legislative/Congress

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  4. Other Resources
    U.S. State Department Travel Advice
    http://travel.state.gov

    U.S. State Department - List of Embassies & Consulates
    http://usembassy.state.gov/

    U.S. State Department - U.S. Visas
    http://www.unitedstatesvisas.gov/index.html

    Embassy Listings
    http://www.embassy.org

    New Department of State On-Line Video that explains new visa policies and procedures for visitors to the U.S.

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  5. Visa FAQ's

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