B-l/B-2 and WB/WT Visas For International Guests


Departments wishing to invite international guests to conduct a workshop, present a lecture, participate in a conference or a brief collaborative visit, etc. may do so by issuing a letter of invitation to the guest. Depending on country of origin they will either be required to obtain a B-1/B-2 visa from the US Embassy or Consulate or they can be eligible for the WB/WT process available to individuals from countries that are participants in the Visa Waiver Program through the US Department of State. (click here for Visa Waiver Program Information)

Eligible for Treaty Waiver

If the guest’s country of citizenship is a participant in the visa waiver program they are exempt from having to obtain a visa to enter the US. They will present their passport and letter from UGA (click here for sample letter) to verify the purpose for their visit to the US Customs and Border Protection Officer at their port of entry. The officer will stamp their passport and also validate their I-94. Individuals who enter using this process will have a green I-94 card that is valid for a maximum period of 90 days. WB/WT status holders are NOT eligible to extend their stay or change their status while in the US.
Please Note: Regulations now require Citizens of Canada to present a passport when they enter the US.

Required to Obtain B/1-B/2 Visa

Individuals who need to obtain a visa should access the website for the United States Embassy or Consulate for the country where they will be submitting their application. Because procedures vary from country to country this will be the best source for identifying the forms, supporting documents and fees that they must pay. UGA should issue a letter of invitation addressed to the Embassy of the United States where the guest will obtain their visa. (click here for sample letter). When the guest enters the US in the B-l/B-2 visa category they will be issued a white I-94 card. Their period of stay will be determined by the activity for which they are entering the US and this date will be noted on the I-94 in the upper right hand corner. Individuals in this visa category CAN extend their stay or change their status while in the US.

Payment of Travel Expenses or Honoraria

All payments to international guests are the sole responsibility of UGA Payroll/International Tax Compliance Office. The OIE – ISSIS has no role in this process. You can access extensive information at http://www.busfin.uga.edu/payroll/itc/. It is critically important that copies of all required documents be obtained BEFORE the guest leaves the university.