Travel and Visa Information

International Travel 

To help mitigate travel-related challenges, AOM continues to monitor immigration and travel policy updates through external legal counsel. Individuals traveling internationally should review the entry requirements that apply based on their citizenship, country of residence, and the host country of the Annual Meeting. 

General Information 

• Entry to the United States requires a valid passport and appropriate travel authorization. This may include authorization under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) or a visitor (B) visa. 
• Many attendees successfully travel each year using these pathways, and participation in an academic conference is a well‑recognized, legitimate purpose of travel. 

Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) 

• Some travelers may be eligible to enter the United States without a visa through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Eligibility requirements and application details are available on the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website. 
• Those unsure about eligibility or prior travel history may wish to consult an immigration attorney for guidance. 

Visitor (B) Visa 

• Attendees who do not qualify for ESTA typically apply for a B (visitor) visa through a US embassy or consulate in their country of residence or citizenship. 
• The process generally includes completing an online application and attending an in‑person interview. 
• As in many countries, immigration officers often seek to confirm that the visit is temporary, that the traveler maintains ties to their home country, and that the traveler will not work while in the United States. Supporting documentation—such as academic affiliation abroad, institutional ties, funding for the trip, and plans to return—may assist with this. 
• An open invitation to attend the Annual Meeting is provided below. 

Important Reminders 

• Passport validity must meet US requirements; most travelers must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. 
• Travelers should apply early for any required visas or travel authorizations and monitor varying processing times by region. 
• Guidance and specific instructions from the nearest US embassy or consulate should be reviewed carefully before applying. 
• Prior visa denials must be disclosed; individuals with previous denials or complex circumstances are strongly encouraged to consult a US immigration attorney. 
• Some travelers from certain countries may be subject to additional restrictions under current US travel bans. Policies can change, and travelers who may be affected should consult official US government resources or legal counsel. 
• Travelers may be asked to clarify the purpose of the trip, planned accommodations, length of stay, and available financial resources. 
• Proof of sufficient financial means and evidence of onward or return travel may be required. 

Arrival in the United States 

• Border officials may inquire about travel purpose, accommodations, and departure plans.
• ESTA travelers are typically admitted for up to 90 days; B‑visa travelers may be admitted for up to six months, at the discretion of the officer. 
• All travelers should check their official entry record (I‑94) after arrival and ensure timely departure or appropriate action before its expiration. 

For accurate and current information, travelers should consult the Official Resources listed below. 

Domestic Travel 

Attendees traveling domestically should review current identification requirements and transportation guidance applicable to travel within the host country. 

Transportation options to the host city may include air, rail, and local transit. Attendees are encouraged to confirm schedules, routes, and identification requirements directly with transportation providers. 

Division and Interest Group (DIG) Travel Awards 

DIGs have received additional funding to offer travel support for eligible members. To learn more, visit your Connect@AOM Profile and contact your DIG’s officers through the DIG’s website or by sending a message via Connect’s Member Directory. 

Safety & Health 

Your safety is important to AOM. While the host city is typically a major, walkable city, attendees are encouraged to: 

• Follow general urban travel awareness
• Know the location of nearby pharmacies or urgent care centers 
• Carry any necessary medical documentation or prescriptions 

Any meeting-specific safety or health updates will be shared as they become available. 

Annual Meeting Letters & Availability 

AOM provides standardized letters designed to confirm an attendee’s association with the Annual Meeting. Letters are available only if applicable, based on eligibility. 

Most letters are accessed through the AOM Submission Center using AOM Member Profile credentials. 

For more information on available letters, please visit our Before Arriving page.