Travel and Visa Information
Be prepared for your arrival at the 2012 BIO International Convention in Boston, Massachusetts
Traveling to the United States
All visa applicants are advised to apply for their visa as soon as travel to the United States is contemplated, and not later than 3-4 months in advance. This means that international delegates should start the visa process during January - February 2012.
Generate Your Letter of Invitation
We highly recommend generating your letter of invitation for the 2012 BIO International Convention, and making your appointment for a visa interview early! Generate Your Visa Invitation Letter Now.
Please Note: Some consulates may have backlogs in scheduling visa interviews so applicants should first contact the consulate to find out how long the wait is for an interview. For additional visa information, contact the U.S. embassy and consulates in your country.
If you experience any difficulties regarding your visa application, please report your case by completing the National Academies’ Visa Questionnaire. Their International Visitors Office has designed a questionnaire to collect information regarding visa-related issues from the scientific community.
Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)
ESTA is a free, automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. The ESTA application collects the same information collected on Form I-94W. ESTA applications may be submitted at anytime prior to travel, though it is recommended travelers apply when they begin preparing travel plans.
You can find frequently asked ESTA questions here.
Other Helpful Links
U.S. Customs & Border Protection Travel Webpage