Attending an APEC meeting in the US

What type of visa do I need?

If you are attending an APEC meeting as Business traveler, you must apply for a B1/B2 visa.

If you are attending an APEC meeting on official government orders with a Diplomat or Official passport and a diplomatic note from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, you must apply for A or G visa.

I need to leave very soon, what should I do?

In case of urgent departure, you can request an Expedited Interview Appointment. Please be specific and detailed with the reason of your travel (APEC meeting) and the urgency of your request or it might be rejected.

Note that we cannot approve all expedited interview requests; therefore we encourage you to prepare your visa request and make an appointment on-line as early as possible – preferably at least 3 weeks prior your departure.

Do I need a visa if I have an APEC Business Travelers Card (ABTC)?

Yes, you will still need a visa to travel to the U.S. unless you qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).  Travelers are advised that possession of the ABTC will not change visa requirements, your visa status, or the visa process for travel to the U.S.

Do I need to interview if I have an ABTC?

Having the Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC) does not exempt travelers from the interview.

Where can I find more information?

Please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions for Participants in APEC Meetings in the United States.

You can also check travel.state.gov website.