Visa Applications

International visitors should give special attention to visa requirements and make travel plans well in advance. To streamline the visa letter process follow these steps:

1. Register for SC and pay in full.
2. Return to the SC Registration site and sign in using the email you used to register and your registration confirmation number.
3. Click “Print a Visa Letter of Invitation.”

Apply for a U.S. Visa

To enter the United States, citizens and residents of most countries in the world must have a visa. If your travel to the U.S. will require a visa, you must apply for it long before you fly to the United States. The application is online and there is a fee. In addition, you must meet with a person at the nearest U.S. Consul General office, who will ask to see a letter that invites you to attend SC.

See the website for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization) with links to important official information:

Visa Waiver Program

Travelers from some countries can enter the United States without a visa. But entry is not automatic. Before you depart for the United States, you must complete an online application and pay a fee (credit card payment only):

Electronics & Devices

Bring the right adaptor. In the U.S., the standard power supply voltage is 120V and the standard frequency is 60Hz. Power plugs and sockets accept a multi-way/multi-point outlet plug, known as types A and B. (Plug type A has two flat parallel pins and plug type B has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin.)

Most electronic devices have universal power supplies that will work in any country, but be sure to check the label on your device. We recommend you bring a power plug (travel) adaptor:

Safety

The United States is not a dangerous place. Overall, it is a safe, welcoming country. Chicago is a safe city, but all cities have “good” and “bad” areas. Always be aware of your surroundings and use your common sense when traveling abroad.