Travel Information

As a CHEST 2012 attendee, exhibitor, or guest, you are eligible for discounts from the ACCP travel partners. Contact Association Travel Concepts, your own travel agent, or the travel partner directly, and refer to the contract number.

Association Travel Concepts
atcmeetings.com/accp

United Airlines
(800) 521-4041
Contract 510CK

American Airlines
(800) 433-1790
Contract 73H1AZ

Avis Rent a Car
Domestic (800) 331-1600
International (918) 664-9600
Contract J100002

Visas

If you are planning to travel to the United States and live in a country that requires a Visa, we urge you to apply for one as early as possible. Below are suggestions to help you secure a Visa. The ACCP is not an authority on international travel or the Visa acquisition process. We have provided links and suggestions to assist you in your own situation.

• Apply at the appropriate governmental office at least 5 months before intended travel.  You can check online for the wait times for appointments.
• Be prepared to allow inkless fingerprinting and digital photographs upon entry to the United States.
• Be accurate and specific in completing your application. Avoid mistakes. If needed, attach an additional explanation letter.
• Attach evidence of your previous visits to the United States and of your intended return trip to your home country.
• Acquire a police clearance, if possible.
• Bring all documentation proving your home country connections. Suggestions include: past Visas, bank accounts, family, professional position, home ownership, and marriage license.
• If you are presenting a paper or speaking at the meeting or are receiving an award or grant, bring copies of correspondence confirming that.
• Bring your letter of invitation from ACCP.
• Learn more about Temporary Visas to participate in an ACCP meeting or other temporary travel to the United States.
• Learn more about the United States Visa application procedures.

Note:  A Visa only allows you to travel to the United States. You will still have to be admitted at your point of entry.  Click here for information from Homeland Security on the Entry Process.

Additional Information: US Visa policy permits citizens of certain countries to travel to the US without a Visa, when they meet certain requirements, under US laws. Please click here for more information about which counties participate in the Visa Waiver Program.

If you are a citizen of the following countries, you may not need a Visa to travel to the United States for CHEST 2012. As of January 12, 2009, however, all travelers from these countries are required to register online through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization. And in January 2010, the Department of Homeland Security transitioned to enforced compliance of the ESTA requirement for VWP travelers. This means that travelers who have not obtained approval through the ESTA should expect to be denied boarding on any air carrier bound for the United States.

As the countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program are subject to change in the coming months, the ACCP encourages attendees to regularly check the ESTA website for updates.

The following countries are currently part of the Visa Waiver Program:

Invitation Letters

Important: All letters of invitation for general attendees and their spouses will be generated automatically using the online form. Separate spouse letters may be generated with the same form. CHEST 2012 abstract and case report presenters needing additional presentation information included in the invitation letter should contact abstracts@chestnet.org. Other inquires may be directed to registration@chestnet.org.

Generate a letter of invitation now.

View more resources from US Customs and Border Protection about the process for entering the United States.