International Visitor Information

Your Safety & Experience at ALD/ALE 2026 in Tampa, Florida

We know that travel decisions come with many considerations, and we want to reassure you about what to expect at the upcoming ALD/ALE 2026 Meeting in Tampa.

Venue safety: Our meeting venue works closely with local authorities and their own in-house, professional security teams to ensure the highest standards of safety.
Communications: AVS ALD/ALE is in regular communication with our partners to monitor conditions and support attendees throughout their stay.
Information and resources: We’ll share practical tips so you can feel confident navigating the meeting.

Most importantly, the ALD/ALE Meeting remains your place to connect with colleagues, discover cutting-edge research, and advance science together. We look forward to welcoming you to Tampa where our collaboration helps create a safe and inspiring meeting experience.

Information & Resources

While AVS cannot provide legal or immigration guidance, we want to make sure you have quick access to trusted, official resources for your travel planning.

Travel & Documentation

S. State Department: Travel information
S. Customs and Border Protection: US entry requirements
Transportation Security Administration (TSA): What you can bring

Tampa City Resources

Office of Emergency Management: This is the City’s main emergency management authority, coordinating alerts, severe weather updates, and public safety communications.
Alert Tampa: Ideal for quick, trusted notices on incidents or changing conditions in San Diego.

Immigration & Rights Information

Emergency & Safety

Dial 911 for any emergency (police, fire, or medical).
Create your own list of emergency contact information and have it with you at all times.
- Name, address, and phone number of your hotel/place of residence
- Location and phone number of your nearest national embassies
Keep your passport, visa, and other important travel documents secure and accessible.
Be aware of your digital privacy rights at the US border.

Visa Updates

While AVS cannot offer immigration advice, here are official resources outlining recent and upcoming changes in U.S. Visa Policies that may affect your travel planning.

Visa Integrity Fee – Effective October 1, 2025

A new $250 visa integrity fee will be added to most non-immigrant visa applications (tourists, students, exchange visitors, temporary workers), raising total visa costs to approximately $442 for applicants outside Visa Waiver Program countries (including, but not limited to Mexico, Argentina, India, Brazil, and China).

In-Person Interview Requirement Expanded – Effective September 2, 2025

Most non-immigrant visa applicants—including F‑1/F‑2 (students), J‑1/J‑2 (exchange), H‑1B (work), and others—are now required to attend an in-person consular interview, ending widespread eligibility for interview waivers.

What This Means for You

Plan ahead: Apply for your visa early, as processing times may increase.
Budget accordingly: Be prepared for additional fees and travel to a consulate or embassy for interviews.
Stay informed: Keep an eye on the S. State Department’s Visa News page for updates.

FAQs –Visa Information for International & Non-Citizen Attendees

Last updated: August 2025

Documents

What documents do I need to enter the U.S. for the Annual Meeting?

You must carry:

A valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity).
A valid visa (e.g., B-1/B-2, F-1, J-1, H-1B), or ESTA authorization if you’re from a Visa Waiver Program country.
Your meeting invitation letter (if needed)* and registration confirmation.
Proof of accommodations, return travel, and (if applicable) employer/university sponsorship.

*Email events@avs.org to request a letter of invitation once you’ve registered or received your abstract acceptance notification, or if you need an invitation earlier.

Fees

Are there new visa-related fees I should be aware of?

Yes. As of July 2025, the U.S. has implemented or increased some visa-related fees. For specific information, please visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/fees/fees-visa-services.html.

Processing Time

How long should I allow for visa processing?

Apply as early as possible. Interview wait times and processing delays are common. We recommend applying 3–6 months before the meeting.

What to Carry

Should I carry my immigration documents with me during the Annual Meeting?

Yes. We recommend carrying:

A photocopy of your passport and visa.
Your I-94 or proof of legal entry (printed or digital).
A copy of your meeting registration or badge.
A card listing your emergency contacts, local consulate, and legal aid.

Still have questions? Email us at events@avs.org or visit the Registration Desk onsite at the meeting.