U.S. Visa and Immigration Information

Please note: SWIICL does not provide legal advice regarding U.S. immigration requirements. The following information is offered for general guidance only, based on our prior experience, and should not be considered legal advice. We strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration attorney if you have specific questions or require legal assistance.

Visa Eligibility

Because the Academy of American and International Law is not an accredited institution of higher education, participation in the program does not qualify for a Student (F-1) Visa.

Based on past experience, many participants have successfully obtained a B-1 Business Visitor Visa to attend the Academy.

However, each U.S. Consulate or Embassy may interpret visa eligibility differently and apply its own procedures. Therefore, we recommend that you consult the specific Consulate or Embassy with jurisdiction over your place of residence to understand the exact requirements.

Documentation Requirements (Based on Prior Participants’ Experience)

Some Consulates may require:

• Proof of no prior criminal history

• Information about immediate family members

• Proof of strong ties to the home country and an intent to return

Participants have previously submitted the following documents to support their applications:

1. Proof of ties to home country:

   • Property ownership documents (e.g., deeds)

   • Service contracts (either to be provided or received)

   • Letters from employers or family members attesting to the applicant’s intention to return

2. Employer letters (if applicable):

   • On company letterhead

   • Stating the participant’s name and position

   • Duration of employment

   • Confirmation that the employee will return after attending the Academy

   • Explanation of why the employer supports attendance and what is expected to be gained from it

   • Statement regarding employer’s financial responsibility (if they are covering travel or tuition)

   For self-employed participants, letters should describe the nature, size, and obligations of the business, along with evidence of the participant’s connection to their local community.

3. Letter of support from an employer or relative:

   • Should describe the Academy as an extended business-related and continuing legal education conference for legal professionals

4. Letter of admission to the Academy:

   • We can provide this upon request.

   Note: We cannot issue a Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20), as the program does not meet the criteria for a student visa.

Visa Interviews and Timing

Many Consulates require a personal interview, and processing times can be lengthy due to high workloads. We recommend that you:

• Begin the visa process as early as possible

• Keep SWIICL staff informed about:

  • The status of your visa appointment

  • Completion of your interview

  • Whether your visa has been issued