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.
| ESTA | B Visitor Visa | J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $21 | $185 | $185 + $220 | |
| Employment (Temporary) | Limited, 9/5/6 rule applies | Limited, 9/5/6 rule applies | Temporary on campus employment | |
| Max length of stay | 90 days | 90 days | Up to 5 years | |
| ISSS office involvement | None | Recommended | Required | |
| Visa interview required | No | Yes | Yes | |
| Wait time for interview (days) | N/A | 3 days to over a year | 1-20 days | |
| Visa denial risk | Practically none | From very low to very high | From none to moderate | |
| Renewal | 2 years | Typically 10 years | New visa needed for each new program | |
| Health insurance | Optional but recommended | Optional but recommended | Required (~$100 a month) |
Note that the inviting faculty or staff member is responsible for helping the visitor to arrange housing and other logistics for their stay in Walla Walla. For those unfamiliar with campus and community resources, please contact our office, International Student and Scholar Services, Mem 205 or email ISSS@whitman.edu.