Graduating next May? Planning to invite family or friends to the U.S.?

ISSS is pleased to announce a dedicated information page for international students and scholars who are planning to invite family or friends to the U.S. for short-term visits. Please review Inviting Family and Friends to Visit You for information about visitor (tourist) visa options and links to important government resources.

If you are inviting visitors for graduation next May, it is strongly recommended that any guests start the visa application process early. Visa Wait Times at many U.S. consulates are taking several months, even up to a half a year. 

An invitation letter is not needed for the visitor's visa, and is not reviewed and considered by U.S. consulates when deciding whether to issue a visitors visa. However, you may still issue a personal invitation to family and friends. Consult our resource page above for a sample invitation letter.