Visa Information

RAMS® (rams.org)

This page provides visa guidance for all RAMS® participants, including authors, co-authors, attendees, panelists, moderators, and Associate Editors.

Important Notice

Participants are requested to familiarize themselves with their own applicable visa requirements well in advance of the RAMS®. Present worldwide security regulations generally result in more stringent visa requirements and associated longer visa processing times.

Attendees are responsible for understanding and meeting their visa requirements. The RAMS® Management Committee cannot influence visa decisions or communicate with embassies on behalf of any applicant. We also do not provide immigration endorsements or evaluation letters.

U.S. Visa Requirements

Most international attendees traveling to the United States for a professional conference like RAMS® will need a B-1 Temporary Business Visitor Visa. This visa supports short-term business activities, including attending RAMS®, meetings, and professional events.

Key Advice

  • Apply as early as possible. We strongly recommend beginning your visa application process as soon as you receive your invitation letter.
  • Processing can take several months or more.
  • Always check the official U.S. Department of State website for the most current information, as requirements and wait times change.

Official Resource

U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs Visa Services (includes Visa Wizard tool to determine the right visa type).

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

Citizens of participating countries may travel to the U.S. for business or tourism for up to 90 days without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program. Travelers must obtain authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to travel.

For the current list of participating countries and eligibility details (which can change), visit:
U.S. Department of State – Visa Waiver Program
or
ESTA Official Site.

Note: Not all citizens from VWP countries are eligible. Review requirements carefully.

Typical Steps for B-1 Visa Application

  • Obtain an Invitation Letter (if required by your embassy). See section below.
  • Complete the online DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form.
  • Pay the non-refundable visa application fee.
  • Schedule an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
  • Gather required documents (valid passport, photos, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, invitation letter, proof of ties to home country, etc.).
  • Attend the visa interview.
  • Await processing and approval.

Processing times vary significantly by location. Check current wait times on the Global Visa Wait Times page.

Requesting a Visa Invitation Letter

The Management Committee can provide a formal invitation letter (also called a visa support letter) to registered participants. This letter confirms your participation in RAMS® but does not guarantee visa approval.

What the Invitation Letter Does and Does NOT Do

  • Confirms your participation in RAMS®
  • Does NOT guarantee visa approval
  • Does NOT provide financial sponsorship or guarantee of funding
  • Does NOT expedite visa processing

Please note that the visa invitation letter is a standard symposium document. To ensure consistency, the content cannot be customized, modified, or tailored for individual applicants.

Eligibility

Visa invitation letters are provided to:

  • Authors and co-authors whose abstracts were accepted and who requested a letter during abstract submission.
  • Attendees who requested a letter during the registration process and have paid registration in full.
  • Panelists confirmed by the Panel Session Chair and who have completed registration.
  • Moderators and Associate Editors who have completed registration.

How to Request

  • During abstract submission: Authors and co-authors can indicate their need for a visa invitation letter in the submission system. Visa letters are typically sent in June to authors and co-authors.
  • During registration: Attendees, panelists, moderators, and associate editors can request a visa invitation letter on the registration form.

Note: If you forgot to request a visa letter, you can return to your registration to add the request.

Please allow several business days for processing. When requesting, provide your full name (exactly as it appears on your passport), registration confirmation number (if available), and any other requested details.

The letter will include RAMS® details (title, dates, location) and your registration or acceptance status. No letters of guarantee or financial sponsorship will be issued.

Additional Tips

  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay.
  • Prepare strong evidence of intent to return to your home country (for example, employment, property, family ties).
  • For the latest health, passport, or entry requirements, consult official U.S. sources such as the Department of State and CDC.

This information is provided as a courtesy. Travel regulations change frequently. The U.S. Department of State website is the authoritative source.

We look forward to welcoming you to RAMS®! If you have questions about registration or the program, please contact advancedregistration@rams.org or programs@rams.org.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements and procedures are subject to change. Attendees are solely responsible for obtaining the necessary travel documents and complying with all U.S. entry regulations. The RAMS® Management Committee and Board of Directors assume no liability for any issues related to visa applications or entry into the United States.