Under certain circumstances, a visitor may come to the University in B-1/B-2 status or under the Visa Waiver Program.
- B-1 visa for business
- B-2 visa for tourism (or for a combination of both, B-1/B-2 can be issued together)
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The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows a traveler to come to the U.S. without a visa and stay for up to 90 days.
- Individuals coming under the VWP will need to have a valid registration in the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
Similar conditions apply to B status and to the VWP; visitors should carefully check the website of the U.S. consulate or embassy for information on both. Please see a more detailed overview of various immigration statuses.
Visitor visa status allows a traveler to:
- conduct business on behalf of a foreign company and business of a general nature
- conduct independent research (university related research in B status is not allowed)
- U.S. based employment is not allowed in B-status
Who can visit the University on a B-1/B-2 or VWP visa?
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A visitor attending a University conference or symposium or giving public lectures or presentations provided that:
- activities fall within 9 calendar days
- visitor has not undertaken such activities for more than 5 different institutions in the last 6 months
This is the so-called "9/5/6 rule" and an individual whose visit satisfies these conditions can be reimbursed for expenses and receive an honorarium. Please note tax withholdings of 30% will apply unless the individual has a Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Please see instructions on what information should be included in the Invitation Letter.
- A visitor conducting independent research. Independent research means the use of University facilities without any affiliation or appointment. NOTE: a visitor with affiliation or appointment should come on a J-1 visa, even if no payment is made to the visitor by the University.