Global Access to the Cutting Edge Conference
We welcome conference attendees from around the world. If you plan to attend the Cutting Edge Conference from outside the United States, a U.S. visa may be required. For the best conference travel experience, begin your preparations early.
The following important information will help you successfully navigate the visa application process. Please refer to the U.S. State Department website for more details.
Plan Ahead
You can check the estimated wait time for U.S. visa appointments in your country at the local U.S. Embassy and Consulate’s website. Please contact your nearest consulate as soon as possible to request an interview date. Expect extended wait times exceeding 5 months.
Registration and Letter of Invitation
UCA, a Division of SME, will send a Letter of Invitation upon request. Requests for Letters of Invitation must include your name, job title, company name, mailing address (PO boxes are not acceptable), city, state/province, country, zip/postal code, phone, fax number, date of birth and passport number; as well as the beginning and end dates of travel. Please provide the address, phone and fax number of your local U.S. embassy. All items must be submitted to receive a Letter of Invitation.
Note: Invitations are intended to help international delegates raise travel funds or obtain a visa. It is not a commitment from the conference or the organizers to provide any financial support.
REQUEST A LETTER OF INVITATION
Or send to:
UCA Customer Service Dept.
12999 E. Adam Aircraft Circle
Englewood, CO 80112
USA
Obtain a Visa or ESTA
Determine if you need a visa or if you are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
Attendees needing a Visa
If you need a visa to attend the Cutting Edge Conference, be sure to apply for the right kind of visitor visa. This is typically a B1 visa to “Attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference for a business visit.”
You will need:
- a current machine-readable passport
- an in-person interview with the U.S. State Department consulate or embassy in the country where you live
- and a letter of invitation from UCA to the Cutting Edge Conference
REQUEST A LETTER OF INVITATION
Attendees utilizing ESTA
You may travel to the U.S. for 90 days or less without obtaining a U.S. visa, if you’re a citizen of one of the 38 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program. You must have valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval before travel. ESTA requires all international travelers to register in an online database and must complete an application on the ESTA website.
Note: SME cannot intervene on your behalf with the Embassy or U.S. Consulate via fax, phone, surface mail, or email. The U.S. State Department provides information on traveling to the United States regarding passports, international travel, and visas.