These steps are among the ones you and your Indiana University department will take for your visit. Your department will guide you through this process, and you can always contact us.
Prepare for a short-term visit
Information for visitors
Invitation letter
We recommend that you obtain an invitation letter from your IU host department. You can use this letter when you apply for a visa and at the port of entry. The letter should include:
- Information about the conference or visit
- Specifics about travel payments and expense payments, including honoraria, if applicable
We are available to review the invitation letter to ensure it meets these goals.
Visa processing times
If you need a B-1 or B-2 visa, you should apply for one as soon as possible—and at least 60 days before you travel. If you will attend a scientific conference or you have a scientific background, we recommend that you apply for a visa at least 90 days before you travel.
Your visa approval may take longer than 60 or 90 days, however. Wait times for visa interview appointments vary by embassy and by time of year, and additional processing time may be required for security clearances or other reasons. We suggest that you apply as soon as you can.
Enrollment in IU coursework
If you are in B-1 or B-2 status and want to take IU courses, you must first change to a status that allows you to study by filing an application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Visitors in WB and WT status may not change to a different visa status in the United States.
Compensation information for departments
Learn about honoraria and reimbursements for visitors in B-1, B-2, WB, and WT status. Departments that are paying short-term visitors should also read the information below.
Consult IU resources
- Travel Management for non-employee travel policies
- IU Tax Office Quick Guide if an honorarium is being offered
Ask for a social security number
The visitor may need to apply for a U.S. Social Security Number (SSN). Visitors who do not have an SSN or who are not eligible for an SSN may need to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
Copy the I-94
When the visitor arrives, the department should make a copy of his or her I-94 documentation.
Short-term visitors from Canada will receive an entry stamp in their passport upon entry to the United States.