Inviting an International Speaker, Faculty or Staff

Whitman’s ISSS office can help with navigating the visa process and suggestions for pre-arrival logistics of invited guests, visiting faculty or foreign born staff. ISSS has no budget for financial support.

Short visits. Up to 9 days of business activities (eg lectures, workshops, performances, guests speakers, artists etc):

• Residents from Visa Waiver Program countries only need the digital ESTA. This is very easy.
• Residents from non-Visa Waiver countries must apply for the B Visitor Visa.

The experience of requesting the B visa varies by country and in the most extreme cases may take a year. Expedited appointments for the B visa applicants are available only in cases of health emergency or death.

Should you find that your guest is not able to get their B Visitor Visa on time, do not despair! Contact ISSS and we will review whether the J-1 Exchange Visitor visa is an appropriate solution. J-1 visas are typically processed in a week or two and can be further expedited if needed. J-1 visas are also easier to have approved.

Long visits. Over 9 days, such as Language Assistants, visiting professors, international practitioners brought to Whitman as, for example, part of the O'Donnell Visiting Educator Fund. These are typically best served by a J-1 visa. Note: Prior budget approval from the Provost’s Office is required for these visitors.