Please note that APEC can provide letters of invitation only to authors who have paid their registration fee. We are not able to provide letters of invitation to anyone else. Please don't ask for an exception - it cannot be granted.

As the leading global power electronics event, you cannot afford to miss APEC 2005. This page includes the best information we have to help make the registration and visa application process easier for you.

The U.S. government requires residents of some countries to obtain a visa before entering the USA. Changes made to the visa application process after September 11, 2001 have increased the length of time required to receive your visa. The information below provides important links and details that help to make the process easier for you.

Helpful Hints

Note for authors: Other important information you need is located under "Authors & Presenters Info" item in the navigation bar on the left side of the page.

• Review the U.S. State Department's Destination USA web site for changes to the visa process that may affect you.
  
  
• APPLY EARLY for your visa-this can take several months (but the wait has improved). If you need a letter of invitation to complete this process, first you must register online & pay the registration fee, then request a letter of invitation. Please note that refunds (less a US$50 service fee) can be issued only if a written (or e-mail) request is received in the APEC offices by February 17, 2006.
  
  
• Check your passport for expiration date. Make sure the expiration date is at least six months after you plan to leave the United States.
  
  
• When entering and exiting the USA, a quick photo and fingerprint scans are now taken to enhance security as described under the US-Visit program.

Visas for International Media

Foreign members of the media should have an I-Visa. Using the visa waiver program to work as a journalist in the U.S. does not guarantee entry. Visit the U.S. State Department's Foreign Media Visas web site and the U.S. Embassy's Web site in your country (link below) for more information about the I-Visa program.

Visa Interviews

A personal appearance interview is required as a standard part of this process. This can increase the processing time. It is expected fewer waivers will be granted for the interview portion of the process.

APEC cannot assist you with the interview process, nor can anyone representing APEC call the embassy or consulate on your behalf to provide support for granting a visa. If you are denied a visitor visa, you may re-apply if there is new evidence to overcome the basis for the refusal. In the absence of new evidence, consular officers are not required to re-examine such cases.

How To Find The US Embassy Or Consulate In Your Country

Please visit the U.S. State Department's Links to U.S. Embassies & Consulates to find the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country.

Visa Waiver Program

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for a limited period of time without obtaining a visa. Not all countries participate in the VWP. Visit the U.S. State Department's Visa Waiver Program web site to find the complete list of participating countries. Please take note there of the latest requirements for a machine-readable passport.

We look forward to seeing you in Dallas, Texas for APEC 2006!