The TRB 89th Annual Meeting, scheduled for January 10-14, 2010, in Washington, DC, will offer some 600 sessions and meetings showcasing transportation research from around the world. More than 10,000 delegates from more than 75 countries are expected to attend and participate.

International Participant's Reception
Sunday, January 10, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Hilton

Applying for Your Visa to Enter the United States

If you plan to attend the upcoming TRB Annual Meeting, we urge you to begin the visa application process now. U.S. regulations require security checks for most visitor visa applications, resulting in a review process that may take three months or more.

Even if you didn't need a visa for a previous TRB Annual Meeting, we strongly advise you to check the current U.S. requirements.
Official information on U.S. visa policies and procedures is available from the U.S. Department of State.

General information on the U.S. visa application process is available through the National Academies’ International Visitors Office . Please note that citizens of  Visa Waiver Program countries generally do not need a U.S. visa for business or tourism visits of less than 90 days, unless they are receiving compensation for services or activities (such as lectures, presentations, etc.). However, electronic manifests must be completed before departing the country of origin. Please check the Department of State's Visa Waiver Program (VWP) website for the list of the countries and the most current information and requirements.

Since U.S. Embassies require visa applicants to provide an original letter of invitation (faxes and photocopies not accepted), please contact TRB with your request as soon as possible to ensure that your letter arrives in your home country well in advance. Moreover, some countries require their citizens to first present an official invitation from TRB before they can obtain a passport from their government, and then apply for a U.S. entry visa.

To expedite your receipt of a letter of invitation, you may specify one of three air courier services you wish TRB to use on the request form, along with your account number to be charged for this special service.

Please use the TRB link provided below to request your letter of invitation, as individual requests received by e-mail will not be accepted. Due to U.S. regulations, please note that TRB is not authorized to send letters of invitation by e-mail or fax. All letters will be sent via first class airmail paid for by TRB or by air courier service, paid by the recipient. Note: Recipients must provide a valid account number for their air courier provider.

Request a letter of invitation

Thank you for your interest in attending the TRB Annual Meeting, and we look forward to the prospect of your participation.

 

For questions please contact: TRBMeetings@NAS.edu