Visa and Interview tips:

Visa application tips:

• Visit http://unitedstatesvisas.gov/ to familiarize yourself with the policies and procedures of U.S. Visa application. 
• Verify fees and other requirements for your specific embassy or consulate by visiting their website
• Register for IWF 2010 and then request a Letter of Invitation from IWF 2010.  You do not have to register for IWF 2010 to receive a letter of invitation, but showing your registration is helpful.  
• Schedule an appointment with your embassy as soon as all of your materials are complete and you have received your letter of invitation and registration confirmation.  Make your appointment early as wait times can be long in some countries. 
• Completely fill out all official documents.  Answer all questions completely.  Avoid using “n.a.” or “not applicable” on your forms.  Instead answer “no” or “none”.
• Travel with an official embassy delegation.  Traveling with a delegation organized by your local embassy or trade organization can improve your chances of visa approval.  IWF is a participant in the DOC Foreign Buyer Program. Visit their site for more information on the program and who to contact by clicking here.

Interview tips:

• Bring your letter of invitation and any other materials you have received from IWF (promotional pieces, registration materials, Technical Conference information, etc) to your interview.  This helps to show IWF is a legitimate business event.
• Show proof of “strong ties” that bind you to your country of residence.  The consular officers conducting visa interviews look for proof that you will return to your country.  Evidence of “strong ties” includes proof of business ownership or employment, social and family relationships.
• If you have traveled to the U.S. previously, provide documentation demonstrating that you returned to your country on time (reservation receipts, airline boarding pass, passport stamps, etc.)  Show proof that you returned within the timeframe of a previous visa.  Or materials that show you attended a business conference or meeting.
• Interviews are generally very short in length.  Questions focus on your travel plans and your ties to your home country ensuring your return.  Being as prepared as possible improves your likelihood of being approved.
• Remember, wait times for interviews can be very long.  Begin the process as soon as possible and schedule an interview immediately upon registering and receiving your letter of invitation.

The International Woodworking Machinery & Furniture Supply Fair – U.S.A.(r) (IWF) does not assume any financial, legal or other type of responsibility for any person during their attendance at IWF, and is not responsible for denied visa applications.