Attending the AFS Youth Assembly is an exciting opportunity to connect with young leaders from around the world. If you require a visa to enter the United States, it is important that you connect directly with the nearest US Embassy in your region. Below are the steps and resources to help you secure your visa in time for the event.
Do You Need a Visa?
Start by checking the visa requirements for your nationality on the website of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Most attendees who need a visa for the Youth Assembly will apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa, which is appropriate for participating in events and conferences. In case you decide that another visa type suits you better, please have in mind that we can only provide you with a simple invitation letter for the event, and you might need additional documentation to support your visa request.
Check Visa Appointment Waiting Times
Visa processing times can vary significantly depending on your location. Visit the U.S. State Department’s Visa Appointment Wait Times page to check current waiting times at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Request an Invitation Letter
To support your visa application, you may need a letter from our team. Official Acceptance Letters are only provided upon your full registration, however, you may request a Pre-Acceptance Letter to move, forward with your visa application. Here’s how to request one:
- Complete Your Application: Fill out your Youth Assembly application form, including the questionnaire and travel information in the registration portal.
- Email Us: Email [email protected] with the subject “Request for Invitation to Apply Letter”.
- Review and Approval: Our team will review your request, and if eligible, issue the letter.
Note: This letter demonstrates your intent to attend the AFS Youth Assembly but does not guarantee visa approval, or admission into the United States. Visa issuance is entirely contingent on U.S. Embassies’ and Consulates’ discretion. Admission into the United States is contingent on U.S. Customs and Immigration Authorities’ discretion at the point-of-entry.
Please also note that the organizers’ (AFS Intercultural Programs) responsibility is limited only to supplying an invitation letter. AFS cannot make personal phone calls or requests on your behalf to specific Embassies or Consulates. Intervention with diplomatic and consular affairs by a host organization is not possible, and reliance on such phone calls may slow your application process or decrease your chances of obtaining a visa.
Prepare for Your Visa Application
To ensure a smooth application process, gather the necessary documents, including:
- A valid passport.
- A completed visa application form (DS-160).
- Proof of payment for the visa application fee.
- An Invitation Letter from the Youth Assembly team.
- Evidence of financial support for your trip.
- Information of a contact person in the US + an address for your stay while visiting the country. Once you fully register for the AFS Youth Assembly, you will receive our contact information to use in your application.
- Proof of ties to your home country (e.g., employment, studies, family commitments).
Schedule Your Visa Interview
Once you have all required documents, schedule your visa interview with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Be prepared to discuss your plans to attend the AFS Youth Assembly and demonstrate your intent to return to your home country after the event.
Final Tips for a Successful Visa Application
- Start the process as early as possible to avoid delays.
- Be clear and confident in your communication during the visa interview.
- Use the resources and guidance provided by the Youth Assembly team.
Attending the Youth Assembly is a significant step toward becoming a global changemaker. By securing your visa in advance, you’ll be ready to make the most of this transformative experience.
If you have further questions, please contact us here.