Visitors

Individuals from around the world visit UIC each year. Knowing which type of visa is appropriate for a visitor, how to invite someone, and the allowable activities during their time in the U.S. and at UIC, are essential for a successful international visit.

The Office of International Services advises internationals and departments on visas for official visits to UIC. OIS cannot advise on visas for family or friends visiting the U.S. or UIC in an unofficial capacity. Please see below for more information and connect with OIS if you have questions.

Initiating an official visit to UIC Heading link

If you are interested in visiting UIC for a short-term period in WB or B-1 status, please communicate directly with the UIC Department you wish to visit. If they are able to accommodate the visit, your UIC department will provide you with an invitation letter you will need to present upon entry to the U.S.

UIC Department Administrators can find more information about inviting official visitors to the U.S. in the Guide to Hiring & Inviting Foreign Nationals.

If you are interested in participating in a medical clerkship or rotation, please contact the College of Medicine’s Office of International Education.

Visa recommendations & considerations for official visitors to UIC Heading link

OIS strongly advises that individuals entering the U.S. for an official visit to UIC utilize a business visa (B-1/WB) and not a tourist visa (B-2/WT). The U.S. Department of State provides an overview of the different visitor visa categories and instructions on how to apply.

Visas for unofficial visitors Heading link

At some point, a family member or friend may decide to visit you in the U.S., perhaps for your graduation or another significant event. This situation does not constitute an official business visit, and therefore, a tourist visa (B-2/WT) would be most appropriate. Additionally, OIS cannot advise on visas for unofficial visits.

Your friend or family member can learn about the tourist visa at the U.S. Department of State, including which option, B-2 or WT, would suit them best and general application steps. They will then need to visit the website or their nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to confirm their specific application process and documents based on their location.

You may feel compelled to support their application with an invitation letter or other documentary evidence of your status in the U.S. While this is typically not necessary, we understand the urge to support your loved one through an unfamiliar process. Feel free to write an invitation letter to your family or friend, including the date of the event they wish to attend but please know that OIS cannot write invitation letters on your behalf. You could also send them copies of your immigration documents, a Student Status Verification Letter issued by OIS, or transcripts from the Registrar to further document your valid status in the U.S.