Passport
For most international travelers to Chicon 8, a passport will be required. Please make sure to check your country’s requirements for obtaining a passport, and make sure to apply as early as possible. Many countries have experienced delays and backlogs due to the COVID-19 pandemic and advise erring on the side of caution.
If you already have a passport, we recommend that you double check the expiration date. Unless a specific agreement has been made with your country, the U.S. does require passports be valid for at least six months longer than the intended stay. A list of countries exempt from the six-month rule can be found on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
Visa
Depending on your country, a visa may be required for entry. The United States has a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for some countries, which allows travel for tourism and business for 90 days or less without a visa. However all travelers must still have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). You can find out the most updated information about which countries are part of the Visa Waiver Program, the ESTA program, and other current requirements at the State Department’s website.
More information about the general requirements and information about the Visitor Visa can be found on their Visitor Visa page.
General information about the U.S. Visa can also be located on the U.S. Visa page.
Visa Letters
According to the U.S. government, a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa and bringing one to your visa interview will not be a factor used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa. In the case that the U.S. does require a visa letter for you or if you have any other questions, please email visa@chicon.org to request one.
Other Resources
U.S. Customs and Border Control provides explanations about U.S. entry procedures. Please feel free to look at the videos they have posted to help make the process easier:
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