official visit or business

• Corporate Profile
• Terms & Conditions
• The IaM Dream Team
• Specialist Immigration Advice Regulated by the OISC
• British Council Accreditation For Student Services
• Canada Registration Authority Immigration Advisors
• Review our service
• UK Immigration Lawyers
• Business Development Managers
• Expansion Project
• Tier 1 Investor Visa UK
• Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur Visa UK
• Tier 2 UK General Visa
• Tier 2 UK Overseas Qualified Nurses (OQN)
• Employment Services
• Tier 2 UK Intra Company Transfer Visa
• Tier 2 UK Intra Company Transfer Visa (Sub-Categories)
• Tier 2 UK Minister of Religion Visa
• Tier 2 UK Sports Person Visa
• Tier 2 UK Priority Applications Visa
• Tier 2 UK Shortage Occupations List
• Tier 4 (General) UK Student Visa
• Tier 4 UK Student Visa
• Tier 4 UK Student Visitor Visa
• Tier 4 UK Post-Graduate Visa
• Tier 4 (Child) UK Student Visa
• Tier 4 UK Doctorate Extension Scheme Visa
• Student Services
• Tier 5 UK Youth Mobility Scheme Visa
• Tier 5 UK Charity Workers Visa
• Tier 5 UK Creative and Sporting Visa
• Tier 5 UK Religious Worker Visa
• Tier 5 UK Government Authorised Exchange Visa
• Tier 5 UK International Agreements Visa
• Standard Visit Visa
• Business Visitor Visa

• Family Visitor Visa
• Child Visitor Visa
• Marriage Visitor Visa
• Domestic Workers Visas
• UK Ancestry & Commonwealth
• British Citizenship
• Family Immigration Visa Applications
• EEA Applications
• Long Residence
• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Settlement
• Replacement Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) Application
• Visit Russia
• All About Schengen Visas
• What is the Schengen Agreement?
• Schengen Countries
• Schengen Visa Types & Validity
• Schengen Visa Application Requirements
• Who Needs to Apply for a Schengen Visa to Europe?
• How to Apply for a Schengen Visa
• Schengen Visa Fees
• Schengen Visa News
• US Visa Application Form
• Switching UK Visas
• How to Apply for a British Passport
• Embassies, High Commissions, and Consulates in the UK
• Full Consultation
• Immigration Consultation
• Free 30 Minutes Consultation
• Free 15 Minutes Consultation
• Application Preparation
• Fast Track Same Day UK Immigration Applications
• Life in the UK
• Plane Tickets and Travel Services
• Landing Pack
• iam learning English
• Tenants Right To Rent
• Book an Appointment
• Working in the UK
• Sponsorship Application for UK Immigration
• Global Mobility
• Businesses and Institutions
• Estate & Letting Agents
• Landlords Right To Rent
• Education Providers

Schengen Visa for Official Visits – what is it and do you need one?

A Schengen Visa for Official Visits to Europe is one of the types of Schengen visas which serves as an entry permit for those undertaking journeys to the territory, following an official invitation to participate in:

• consultations
• negotiations
• exchange programs
• other events held in the Schengen Zone by intergovernmental organizations

Like all other types of Schengen visas, you can only stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 in 180 days with the Schengen Official Visit visa. If the visit is expected to be longer than that, the applicant should consider applying for a National Visa which permits you to stay longer, and state “official” visit as the purpose for travel.

The Schengen Official Visit visa is only one of several types of Schengen visas, that allow you to travel to the Schengen Area. If you need to visit the Schengen area for other purposes, check out other Schengen Visa types !

Traveling to the Schengen Area amid Coronavirus travel restrictions

Because of the  Coronavirus  pandemic affecting everyone worldwide, most countries have set up travel restrictions that prevent most people from travelling. These restrictions are updated regularly, as officials decide on the best measures to contain the spread of the virus, so it is always best to check the current travel restrictions or upcoming travel restrictions of the country you wish to visit if you will be allowed to travel.

The good news is that there are some exemptions to the ban, like the  love contract  that many Schengen countries honour in order to let partners reunite, as well as ways to bypass the ban to let you enter Europe.

If you are unsure about whether you will be allowed to travel to the Schengen Area right now, feel free to  book a consultation  with us and we can check for you based on your specific circumstances.

Who needs to apply for a Schengen Official Visit Visa in the UK?

If you are a UK citizen, remember that the rules on travel to Europe and the Schengen Area, have now changed due to Brexit.

Any UK citizen who holds either a full UK passport or a BOTC, BOC, BPP or BS passport can travel to the Schengen area for an Official Visit and visa-free. Only the nationals of third countries that have not established an agreement on a visa-free regime with the Schengen Area need a visa to enter the area for official visits.

However, if you plan to travel in the Schengen area for more than 90 days in a 180-day period, you will need to get a long-term visa.

Non-EU Nationals

Many non-EU nationals who reside in the UK are still required to get a Schengen visa to travel to the Schengen area they are visiting.

Citizens of the following countries residing in the UK and planning to visit a Schengen area for Official visit are required to get a Schengen Official visit visa.

You can also check with our  eligibility checker  to see if you need to apply for a visa for the other types of Schengen visas.

The main requirement is that you must have a UK residence permit valid for at least another three more months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen Area.

Before starting a visa application, or getting a flight to The Schengen area for an Official Visit, make sure to check whether you need a Schengen Official Visit Visa or not.

If you have a 3-month UK visa you can extend it for three more months in order to be eligible to apply for a Schengen Official visit visa from within the UK. You must apply for an extension before your visa expires and while you’re still in the UK.

Note : You can stay in the UK until the decision about the extension is taken, but only if you have applied within the visa period.

Related posts:

• 30 More Countries You Can Enter, Visit, and Transit With a Valid Schengen Visa
• EU Settlement Scheme: EU Citizens Staying in the UK After Brexit
• Love is not Tourism, Love is Essential: How to Get Your Love Contract and Reunite with Your Partner

Steps to Applying for an Official Visit Schengen Visa from the UK

Step 1: Know your visa type and validity

A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows a person to travel to any members of the Schengen Area, per stays up to 90 days for different purposes.

Short-term Visa — this is the most popular Schengen Visa. It allows its holder to visit and stay in a Schengen Area for a certain period of time depending on the visa validity. It is primarily issued for tourism, visiting family and friends, business and other authorized purposes. It can be provided for single-entry, double-entry, or multiple entries, depending on the purpose of your travel.

Single-Entry Visa

A single-entry visa allows its holder to enter the Schengen Area only once, within the given period of time, as indicated in the visa sticker stamped to their passport. Once the visa holder exits the Schengen territory, the holder cannot go back without getting a new visa; no matter how short the duration the he/she spent in the Schengen area.

Double-entry visa

A double-entry visa allows the holder to enter the Schengen area twice. This is very handy especially when you are travelling to a Schengen country, and then visit a non-Schengen area and back to a Schengen area to conclude your trip. Once the visa holder exits the Schengen territory for the second time, he or she can no longer go back without getting a new visa; even if you have not spent all of the days you were permitted to remain there.

Multiple-entry visa

A multiple-entry visa allows the holder to go in and out of the Schengen Area multiple times for up to 90 days at a time at any given 180 days period.

Several factors the consulate will consider in order to give a multiple-entry visa include;

• The need/justification to travel to the Schengen country frequently
• Your financial status in your country of residence
• Whether you have adhered to leaving in time during your previous visits.
• Your authentic intention to leave the Schengen Area after your time is up.

Depending on how frequently you travel to the Schengen zone, you may apply and obtain one of the following multiple-entry visa types:

1-year multiple-entry visa – This visa allows its holder to enter the Schengen Zone multiple times, as long as they do not stay more than 3 months within this period.

3-year multiple-entry visa – This visa gives you the right to enter the Schengen zone multiple times within a period of three years. However, even in this case, you are only allowed to reside in the Schengen area no longer than 90 days within a 180-day period.

5-year multiple-entry visa – This visa allows its holder to enter 26 countries in the Schengen region as many times as they wish, within five years, as long they do not stay for more than 90 days within a 180-day period.

The validity of your single-entry visa depends on the number of days you stated you are going to be in the Schengen zone on your visa application form and the actual decision of the consulate that issues you the Schengen visa.

If you are a frequent traveller you may apply to obtain an EU visa valid for up to 5 years, but you have to keep in mind that you cannot stay within the Schengen Area for more than 90 days in a 180-day period of time even if you hold a multiple-entry visa for Europe valid for up to 5 years.

Step 2: Identify where to make the application and book an appointment

If you are planning to visit in only one country of the Schengen member states, then you will have to simply apply for a Schengen visa for an official visit at the embassy of that country in your home country.

But, in cases when you are planning to visit more than two countries inside this area, it may seem puzzling which embassy you have to apply to.  You do not have to apply at each embassy of every country you are planning to visit.

Simply put, if you are planning to visit two or more countries during the same official visit trip, then you have to apply at the embassy of the country where you plan to spend more time. If you are planning to spend equal time in two or more countries, then you have to apply at the embassy of the country where you will be landing first.

Appoint an interview through the website of the consulate or embassy of the country you are planning to visit, in your country of residence. You can appoint an interview six months before the earliest and two weeks before the latest.

Step 3: Complete your application form

The Schengen Visa application form contains questions about you including:

• Name and surname
• Date and place of birth
• Nationality
• Sex and marital status
• National Identity number
• Passport number
• Home address and email
• Purpose of trip
• Question regarding previous trips to Schengen, if any
• Intended date of arrival in Schengen area you are visiting, and the intended period of stay
• Cost of traveling and remaining in Schengen area you are visiting, who will cover them, etc.

Make sure your answers are correct and that they comply with the information in the rest of the documents. Complete the form, print it twice, and sign both copies at the end.

Find out more about how to complete a Schengen visa application form in this blog post .

Step 4: Prepare your documents

What documents are required when applying for an official visit schengen visa in the uk.

The difference between Schengen Official Visit Visa and other Schengen visa types lies in the requirements of the embassy or consulate where you will have to apply. There are some extra documents that you will be required to submit in order to be able to obtain an Official Visit Visa for Europe.

Here are the documents that you need to submit to apply for an Official Visit Schengen Visa:

• Your passport has been issued within the previous 10 years,
• Your passport has 2 full blank pages, one for the visa stamp and an additional spare page,
• Your passport will be valid for at least three (3) months after the date you exit the Schengen Area.
• The UK residency permit must be endorsed in the actual passport (or on a new biometric ID card)
• The UK residence permit must be valid for at least another three more months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen area you are visiting.
• One Schengen Visa application form filled out completely and signed by the applicant.
• One recently taken passport format photo with a blank background and where all your facial features are clear, which must be glued to the application form. Applications with stapled photographs will be rejected.
• A cover letter explaining the purpose of the visit to the Schengen area you are visiting
• Round trip reservation or itinerary – It must include dates and flight numbers specifying entry and exit from the Schengen area.
• Travel insurance policy. A document that proves you have travel health insurance for the whole Schengen territory, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros in case of any medical emergency as illnesses, accidents, and even repatriation in case of death. You can find out more about Schengen travel insurance as well as some insurance providers that we recommend here to make sure you get the correct one for your travel.
• Proof of accommodation . A document that shows where you will be accommodated throughout your stay in Schengen. This could be a hotel booking, a rental agreement, or a letter of invitation from a host at whose house you will be staying.
• Bank account statement – that shows you have enough money in your account for the trip. The statement shall be no older than 3 months.
• Sponsorship Letter – by another person that confirms they will be financially supporting your trip to the Schengen. In order for this letter to be valid, it must be accompanied by a bank statement of the sponsor, no older than three months.
• A combination of your bank account statement and a letter of sponsorship.
• Proof of paid visa fee .
• who will cover the expenses for the visit
• the purpose of travel
• details of travel schedule (throughout the Schengen areas) including places to visit and dates of visit, together with
• the list of people travelling, their position and passport number
• Official Note of the Consular Department. Applicable only for Diplomatic and Official passports.

Keep in mind that the embassy/consulate/VAC where you lodge your application reserves the right to require extra documents from you, prior to or upon the submission of your application.

Step 5: Attend your appointment

The visa interview is a meeting between you and the consular officer/interviewer. During this interview, the consular officer will ask you several questions about you and your intended trip. You will also be submitting the required documents throughout the meeting, to the interviewer.

Sample Interview Questions

While there is no exhaustive list of questions the Consular officer may ask, the following are some of the most common questions asked during a Schengen interview.

• What is the purpose of your trip?
• Why do you want to visit this country?
• For how long will you be travelling to this country/Schengen region?
• What Schengen countries are you planning to visit?
• When will you be travelling?
• Where will you stay?
• How will you travel from one place to another?
• Are you married?
• How long have you been married?
• What does your husband/wife do?
• Do you have any children? How old are they? What do they do?
• Do you have any friends or family that live in Europe? If yes, when did you meet them last?
• Where do you work?
• What does your company do?
• What is your profession?
• What is your role in the company?
• How many years of total experience do you have?
• For how long have you been employed with your current employer?
• For how long were you employed with your previous employer?
• Can you show me your company profile?
• How many people work at your company?
• Who will pay for your trip?
• What is your annual income?
• Do you pay income tax?
• How much will your trip cost?
• Can I see your tax returns?
• Where do you stay?
• What is your highest level of education?

Show up at the appointment centre on time. Remember that if you are late even for a few minutes, then they will probably cancel your appointment.

You will also have to get your fingerprints scanned at the consulate’s office if you have never before applied for a Schengen Visa. If you have, then you don’t have to do it again, since the consulate should be able to look it up.

After the verification of your application, the application form information will be entered into the online system of the consulate or embassy and you will receive a printed copy of your application. This process usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. After you get the printed form, please make sure to verify all the details are correct and sign the form.

Visa Fees for UK Residents

When applying for a Schengen visa there is a non-refundable mandatory visa fee every applicant must pay.

The Schengen visa costs vary depending on the type of visa and age of the applicant as well as some other exceptions stated below in the text. The Schengen visa fee can be paid in the designated consulate/embassy via cash, debit or credit card. However, some consulates may not allow you to pay by credit card.

The Schengen visa application costs include the visa fees payable at the corresponding embassy/consulate when applying.

Step 6: Receive your visa

Official visit schengen visa application processing time in uk.

How long can the application process take?

Most applications for a Schengen official visit visa will be processed in around 10 working days , assuming you provide all the relevant information and there’s no issue with your application. However, depending on the situation, the processing time for an Official visit visa to Europe might take up longer if there is something extraordinary with the individual case or any political situation is on the go.

You can apply as early as 3 months before your trip , and it’s advised to not apply later than 15 days before you’re planning on arriving at the Schengen country of your choice.

Visa application decision:

• Approved – Once your visa is approved, it will be stamped in your passport. Make sure to carefully check the visa sticker to make sure everything is correct and exactly how you need it.
• Rejected – if your visa has been rejected, it would have been for a specific reason and you have the right to appeal.

Common rejection reasons include:

• You applied for the wrong visa – it is your responsibility to apply for the correct visa depending on how long you are going to the Schengen area for and your reason for travelling there
• It is not clear that you plan to return to the UK – it must be clear that you intend to return to the UK before the visa expires. If the visa staff have doubts about this, your visa will be rejected
• The purpose of your trip cannot be established – the reason why you are planning to go to The Schengen area must be made clear. You can do this by providing specific documents like a full itinerary, work contract or invitation letter, etc.

Want to know more reasons why a visa might get rejected? Find out  in this blog post .

What if My Schengen Official Visit Visa is rejected?

If you receive a negative answer in your Schengen Official Visit Visa application, this does not mean you cannot ever travel to the Schengen area for an official visit. You have two options.

• File an appeal for Schengen Official visit Visa rejection if you believe that the decision to deny you a visa is unjust. You should have a strong basis for your complaint. You can appeal this decision by writing an appeal letter for a Schengen Official visit Visa rejection.
• Reapply by correcting the mistakes you did in your previous application. Or improve your situation to comply with the eligibility criteria for a Schengen Official visit Visa.

Schengen Official Visit Visa Extension

Short-stay Schengen visa extensions are permitted under certain circumstances. However, you will have a very low chance of being granted one if you do not have a strong reason as the basis of your application.

According to the Schengen visa policy, acceptable reasons to extend a Schengen short-stay visa are only the following:

You can base your visa extension application on this reason, only if you have a single-entry short-stay visa.  However, this is your best case to extend your visa. You can apply for this visa extension if you have entered Schengen after your visa became valid. I.e. if your visa became valid on August 1, but you entered Schengen on August 15, you can apply for a two-week visa extension, and you are very likely to get it.

Humanitarian Reasons

The Schengen visa policy has made it possible to extend a short-stay Schengen visa to prevent or overcome hardship for third-country nationals. You will be granted with a short-stay visa extension based on humanitarian reasons if you need to stay in one of the member states to continue receiving medical treatment, to take part in the funeral after the sudden death of a family member, to give support to a person close to you who is going through some kind of hardship, etc.

Force Majeure

If something unexpected has occurred all of the sudden in your home country before your visa expiration, as a conflict or war, or even violent protests across the country, extreme weather conditions, no flight connections because of consecutive earthquakes or other reasons, then you have a good chance to get a Schengen short-stay visa extension. You will be granted an extension of a few weeks, or until the situation in your home country changes. If the situation does not change, you will have to apply once again for a short-stay visa renewal, to remain in Schengen.

Important Personal Reasons

Risky, but you should still give it a try if you have no other chance. If you have some unfinished business in one of the Schengen Member States, an unplanned wedding (of yours of your relative), etc., then you may apply for the extension. The immigration authorities will then decide whether you should be granted a visa extension or not.

Are you afraid of overstaying your visa? Read about how to extend your Schengen visa and avoid the penalties for overstaying in the Schengen area in our blog post: Overstaying in the Schengen Zone? Here’s How to Extend Your Schengen Visa .

Have any questions about applying for a Schengen Official Visit Visa? Comment below.

IaM  can help with your visa application to the United States, the UK & other countries

If you need help with a  US visa , a  UK Visa , or  visa to Europe , including help with appointment booking obligations,  IaM  can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at  IaM .

• Latest Posts

• How to Apply for an Estonia Schengen Visa from the UK - 27 December 2021
• How to Apply for a Netherlands Schengen Visa from the UK - 20 December 2021
• How to Apply for a Czech Republic Schengen Visa from the UK - 13 December 2021

Related Posts:

  how to schengen visa types

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Privacy Policy

© 2024 IaM (Immigration and Migration) | UK.

Privacy Overview

British passport mat.

Avoid anxieties & confusion with your FREE Step-by-Step DIY Schengen Visa Guide

Schengen mat Form

Be Confident in Your Visa Application

No thanks. I don’t want the FREE guide. I’m happy to miss out on the travel opportunities to Europe.

Avoid Anxieties. Get a clear Uncomplicated Guide!

FREE Step-by-Step DIY Schengen Visa Guide

• Avoid visa refusals
• Get appointments
• Get your visa in time

Yes I want access!

Situation in Haiti March 29, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents, tourism & visit.

Study & Exchange

Other Visa Categories

U.S. Visa: Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country

Share this page:

Visitor Visa

Visa Waiver Program

Travel Without a Visa

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).

Here are some examples of activities permitted with a visitor visa:

Business (B-1)

• Consult with business associates
• Attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
• Settle an estate
• Negotiate a contract

Tourism (B-2)

• Vacation (holiday)
• Visit with friends or relatives
• Medical treatment
• Participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
• Participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
• Enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)

Travel Purposes Not Permitted On Visitor Visas

These are some examples of activities that require different categories of visas and cannot be done while on a visitor visa:

• Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience
• Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft
• Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media
• Permanent residence in the United States

Visitor visas will also not be issued for birth tourism (travel for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for their child).

How to Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate website .

Complete the Online Visa Application

• Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160 . You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Schedule an Interview

Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.

You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the country where you live. 

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply: 

Appointment Wait Time

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Prepare for your interview.

• Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee , if you are required to pay it before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also need to pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below:

Select your nationality to see Issuance Fee

• Review the instructions available on the website of the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

• Passport valid for travel to the United States – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements ). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport.
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page.
• Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Additional Documentation May Be Required

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish if you are qualified. For example, additional requested documents may include evidence of:

• The purpose of your trip,
• Your intent to depart the United States after your trip, and/or
• Your ability to pay all costs of the trip.   

Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your trip and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your trip, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your trip.

Note:  Visa applicants must qualify on the basis of the applicant's residence and ties abroad, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa. If you choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember it is not one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa.

Attend Your Visa Interview

A consular officer will interview you to determine whether you are qualified to receive a visitor visa. You must establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive a visa.   Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further  administrative processing .  The consular officer will inform you if this required.

After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to your nationality), and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa to you.  Review the  visa processing times  to learn more.

Entering the United States

A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. If you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or a paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Learn more about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website .

Extending Your Stay

See  Extend Your Stay  on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website to learn about requesting to extend your stay beyond the date indicated on your admission stamp or paper Form I-94. 

Failure to depart the United States on time will result in being  out of status . Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided ( Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ).  Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States. 

Failure to depart the United States on time may also result in you being ineligible for visas in the future. Review  Visa Denials  and  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws  to learn more.

Change of Status

If your plans change while in the United States (for example, you marry a U.S. citizen or receive an offer of employment), you may be able to request a change in your nonimmigrant status to another category through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). See  Change My Nonimmigrant Status  on the USCIS website to learn more.

While you are in the United States, receiving a change of status from USCIS does not require you to apply for a new visa.  However, once you depart the United States you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the appropriate category for your travel.

Additional Information

• An individual on a visitor visa (B1/B2) is not permitted to accept employment or work in the United States.
• There is no guarantee you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
• A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States. 

Travel for Medical Treatment

If you are seeking medical treatment in the United States, the consular officer may ask for further documents at your visa interview, which may include:

• Medical diagnosis from a local physician, explaining the nature of the ailment and the reason you need treatment in the United States.
• Letter from a physician or medical facility in the United States, stating they are willing to treat your specific ailment and detailing the projected length and cost of treatment (including doctors’ fees, hospitalization fees, and all medical-related expenses).
• Proof that your transportation, medical, and living expenses in the United States will be paid. This may be in the form of bank or other statements of income/savings or certified copies of income tax returns (either yours or the person or organization paying for your treatment).

Visitor Visas for Personal or Domestic Employees (B-1)

You may apply for a B-1 visitor visa to work in the United States as a personal or domestic employee for your employer in limited situations. You may work in the United States on a visitor visa if your employer is:

• A U.S. citizen who has a permanent home or is stationed in a foreign country, but is visiting or is assigned to the United States temporarily; or
• A foreign citizen who is in the United States on one of the following nonimmigrant visa categories:  B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, or Q.

Learn more about your rights in the United States and protection available to you by reading the Legal Rights and Protections pamphlet.

Visa Renewal

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your visa, you will use the same application process (please review How to Apply , above). Some applicants seeking to renew their visas in certain visa classes may be eligible for the Interview Waiver (IW) which allows qualified individuals to apply for visa renewals without being interviewed in person by a U.S. consular officer. Review the instructions on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply to determine if the IW is available and if you qualify.

Do I need a visa if I have an ABTC?

Yes, you will still need a visa to travel to the United States, unless you qualify for the  Visa Waiver Program . Having an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC) does not change visa requirements, your visa status, or the visa process for travel to the United States.

How can I use my ABTC when I apply for my visa?

If you have an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC),  you might be able to schedule an expedited visa interview appointment. Review the instructions for scheduling expedited appointments on the website of the  embassy or consulate  where you will apply. 

Visa Annotations for Certain Maritime Industry Workers

Certain foreign maritime workers are eligible to apply for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) once in the U.S. If you, as a maritime industry worker, will perform services in secure port areas, your visa must be annotated “TWIC Letter Received.” Workers whose visas are not annotated will not be permitted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to apply for a TWIC.

In order for your visa to be annotated, you must obtain a letter from your employer explaining the need for a TWIC and that you are a potential TWIC applicant. See a template example of this letter. You must present this letter when you apply for the B-1 visa. You must meet all other eligibility requirements for a B-1 visa. 

Complete information about the TWIC program is available on TSA’s website at  https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic .

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review  Visa Denials  for detailed information about visa ineligibilities, denials and waivers.

I was refused a visa, under Section 214(b). May I reapply?

Yes, if you feel circumstances have changed regarding your application. Review  Visa Denials  to learn more.

Misrepresentation or Fraud

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States.

Review  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws .

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not require visas to enter the United States, for visit, tourism and temporary business travel purposes. For more information see  U.S. Embassy Ottawa website ,  U.S. Consulate Hamilton website  and  CBP website .

Additional resources for Canadian visitors to the United States can be found on the U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites in Canada.

Citizens of China

In accordance with the agreement signed between the United States and China to extend visa validity, beginning on November 29, 2016, Chinese citizens with 10-year B1, B2 or B1/B2 visas in Peoples’ Republic of China passports will be required to update their biographical and other information from their visa application via a website every two years, or upon getting a new passport or B1, B2, or B1/B2 visa, whichever occurs first.  This mechanism is called EVUS - Electronic Visa Update System.

The EVUS website is now open to the public for enrollments at www.EVUS.gov .  CBP will not collect a fee for EVUS enrollment at this time. CBP anticipates the eventual implementation of an EVUS enrollment fee, but does not have a time frame. Until the implementation of a fee, travelers can enroll in EVUS without charge.  The Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will keep visa holders informed of new information throughout the year. For further information, please visit  www.cbp.gov/EVUS .‎

根据美中双方签署的延长签证有效期的协议，自2016年11月29日起，凡持有10 年 期B1，B2 或 B1/B2签证的中华人民共和国护照持有人需要每两年或在获取新护照或最长有效期的B1、B2或B1/B2签证时时（以先到者为准），通过网站更新他们签证申请上的个人资料及其它信息。这个机制我们称之为EVUS –签证更新电子系统。

EVUS的登记网站 www.EVUS.gov 现已开放接受登记。美国海关和边境保护局（CBP）目前不会收取登记费用。美国海关和边境保护局预期EVUS登记收费最终会实施，但目前尚未落实执行时间。在收费实施前，旅客可以免费完成EVUS登记。美国国土安全部海关和边境保护局将在今年及时向签证持有人公布最新的信息。获取更多的信息，请访问 www.cbp.gov/EVUS 。

Citizens of Mexico

Citizens and permanent residents of Mexico generally must have a nonimmigrant visa or Border Crossing Card (also known as a "Laser Visa"). For ease of travel, the B-1/B-2 and the Border Crossing Card have been combined into one document (DSP-150). Select  Border Crossing Card  to learn more about this card.

Please visit  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  websites for more information regarding applying for a visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulates in Mexico.

Further Questions

• Case-Specific Questions - Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  for contact information.
• General Questions - review  Contact Us .

Visa Waiver Program  (VWP)

Tourist or business travelers who are citizens of participating countries may be eligible to visit the United States without a visa. Visits must be 90 days or less, and travelers must meet all requirements.

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not need visas for tourism and visits.

More Information

A-Z Index Legal Rights & Protections Lost/Stolen Travel Documents Denials Fraud Warning Visa Expiration Date Automatic Revalidation Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Border Security/Safety Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Customer Service Statement

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Official Visit Schengen Visa

If you are travelling primarily because you are on an official visit, i.e. you are a member of an official country delegation invited to visit a state or states within the Schengen area by the government entity of a Schengen state, or a Schengen deliberative body, then you should apply for an Official Visit Schengen Visa.  

What is an Official Visit Schengen Visa?

• A kind of short stay (Type C) visa allowing you access to the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for the purpose of an Official Visit.

Eligibility: Who Can Apply

• Nationals of a third country excluded from visa free access or visas on arrival to the Schengen area, and your country receives an official invitation from a Schengen state/intergovernmental organization (such as an official Schengen deliberative body) to attend in diplomatic meetings, engage in negotiations, cultural programs of exchange, or other events of a political nature, and you are designated as a representative of your country in an official delegation, you are eligible to apply for an Official Visit Schengen Visa.

Required Documents for Official Visit Schengen Visa

• Official letter issued by your country indicating that you are part of an official delegation travelling to represent your country abroad in the Schengen state/states that extended the official invitation.
• Invitation from Schengen state/Schengen intergovernmental organization.

How to Apply for Official Visit Schengen Visa

• Determine the Schengen country where you will be spending the most time on your trip. You will apply for the Official Visit Schengen Visa through that country’s consulate.
• Select “ Official Visit ” as reason for travelling.
• Determine how many “ Entries ” to the Schengen area you need.
• Gather your Basic Required Documents , as well as the documents required for an Official Visit Schengen Visa.
• Fill out your application . Different Schengen countries provide different ways of accessing applications; you might have to use an online application portal or fill out a print-application by hand.
• Pay the application fee  (standard fee for adults is 80 Euros). You will likely have to submit a service payment with your visa application. This is a separate cost from the visa fee, which you will likely pay in person, at your subsequent interview appointment at a Visa Application Center. Please note that these fees are non-refundable.
• Submit your application.
• Schedule an interview appointment. Interviews are conducted in person either at the embassy or the consulate of the country you are applying to, or at a Visa Application Center associated with the consulate of the country you are applying to.

When to Apply

• You should apply for a Schengen Visa at least 15 days prior to the day you intend to travel, and no earlier than 6 months before you leave.

Where to Apply

• You should apply for the Official Visit Schengen Visa through the embassy or the consulate of the country you are travelling to in the Schengen area, or through a Visa Application Center associated with the consulate of the country.
• If you are travelling to multiple countries in the Schengen area, you should apply through the embassy, the consulate or the associated Visa Application Center for the country in which you will spend the most time. And in case you plan to spend equal period of time in those multiple countries, then you need to apply at the embassy, the consulate or the associated Visa Application Center of the country where you will arrive first.

Processing Time for Official Visit Schengen Visa

• The processing time for an Official Visit Schengen Visa is generally about two weeks (15 days). In rarer cases, consulates can take anywhere from 30-60 days to render a decision on an application.

My Reasons for Engaging in the Brain Aneurysm Foundation

How I Spent My Summer Vacation

The Washington Report – April 10, 2015

The Washington Report – October 2, 2015

Washington Report April 8, 2016

Washington Report February 17, 2017

FORMER MAYOR OF RACINE JOHN DICKERT JOINS CAPSTONE NATIONAL PARTNERS

The Washington Report: May 14, 2021 … “Cheney Unchained”

The Washington Report: April 23, 2021 … “Move Fast & Fix Things”

House Campus Access Update to Official Business Visitor Procedures

The Washington Report: April 16, 2021 … “Corporations Are People Too”

The Washington Report: April 9, 2021 … “Go Big Or Go Home”

• Capstone National Partners Blog

Important Information

SUBJECT:       House Campus Access Update to Official Business Visitor Procedures  

The OAP continues to recommend maximum teleworking for all Congressional offices. In addition, it is strongly encouraged that all meetings continue to be done virtually instead of in person. However, if your office needs to meet with official business visitors, Members and staff are advised that the U.S. Capitol and House Office Buildings will reopen for Official Business Visitors (OBV) on the following dates and with the following procedures:

• U.S. Capitol – Monday, April 26
• House Office Buildings – Thursday, April 29

OBV access will require a Member and/or staff escort at all times in all areas until further notice. In addition, all offices must provide meeting and guest information for visitors so badges can be provided. This will enable U.S. Capitol Police to readily identify OBVs. In all cases, Members, staff, and visitors must maintain 6-foot social distance spacing as much as practicable when in the offices or the Capitol.

Please note the following guidelines that will be in effect for all visitors:

• Hours of operation for all OBV entrances will be  9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday
• Official business visitors to House Office Buildings must be met by House staff at a designated entrance and escorted to and from their destination.
• Capitol – South Door (please note that all visitors coming to the Capitol must be met outside at the Independence and NJ Avenue gate, and then escorted inside the South Door)
• Cannon – Cannon Northwest ADA Door
• Longworth – Longworth Main Door
• Rayburn – Horseshoe Entrance
• Visitors must be escorted by staff at all times.
• An individual Member and/or staff person may escort a maximum of  five (5) visitors at a time , for a total group size of six.
• Staff and visitors must practice meaningful social distancing while part of the group and must wear masks.
• All guests must wear a well-fitted surgical mask that completely covers the nose and mouth.
• The mask should be worn for the entirety of the visit from start to finish. Surgical masks will be provided to them if they do not already have one as part of their visit. Should a visitor(s) be noncompliant with coronavirus social distancing guidelines, they may be subject to removal from the building.
• Please note that there should be no group meals with visitors and any dining should strictly follow the social distancing guidelines. Meals should be taken wherever possible outdoors or at a location other than the House Office Buildings.
• A health screening survey is available on the Office of Attending Physician website: https://attendingphysician.house.gov/
• Name of the staff escort who will be responsible for remaining with the visitor at all times must also be included.
• Official Business Visitors must check in at the designated appointments desk where IDs will be checked, and badges will be issued.

Please note that the Capitol and CVC remain closed to all tours, including Member, staff-led and public tours. In addition, the House Gallery remains closed to all visitors.

Thank you for your cooperation and assistance as we begin to gradually reopen the Capitol and office buildings.  If you have questions, please contact my office at (202) 225-2456.

Related Posts

Races to Watch: Down to the Wire

                             ...

CUT, CUT, COWER …

"House Speaker Paul Ryan promises a big, bold agenda and says lawmakers won't shy from...

Washington Report: February 5, 2016

BIG, BIG NEWS ... William (Will) Stone has joined the Capstone Team as a partner...

Capstone National Partners

From Advocacy, Impact

Popular Posts

Recent Posts

• FORMER MAYOR OF RACINE JOHN DICKERT JOINS CAPSTONE NATIONAL PARTNERS January 27, 2023
• The Washington Report: May 14, 2021 … “Cheney Unchained” May 14, 2021
• Biden Administration Political Appointee Tracker May 10, 2021

Get in touch

501 Capitol Court NE Suite 100 Washington, DC 20002 202.551.0777

759 N. Milwaukee Street, Suite 601 Milwaukee, WI 53202 414.727.2930

Login to your account

Forgot your details.

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( A locked padlock ) or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• Create Account

B-1 Temporary Business Visitor

You may be eligible for a B-1 visa if you will be participating in business activities of a commercial or professional nature in the United States, including, but not limited to:

• Consulting with business associates
• Traveling for a scientific, educational, professional or business convention, or a conference on specific dates
• Settling an estate
• Negotiating a contract
• Participating in short-term training
• Transiting through the United States: certain persons may transit the United States with a B-1 visa
• Deadheading: certain air crewmen may enter the United States as deadhead crew with a B-1 visa

You must demonstrate the following in order to be eligible for a B-1 visa:

• The purpose of your trip is to enter the United States for business of a legitimate nature
• You plan to remain for a specific limited period of time
• You have sufficient funds to cover the expenses of the trip and your stay in the United States
• You have a residence outside the United States that you have no intention of abandoning, as well as other binding ties that will ensure your return abroad at the end of the visit
• You are otherwise admissible to the United States

For information on applying for a B-1 visa, see the “Department of State” link.

Noncitizens seeking a B-1 visa from certain countries may be able to enter the United States without a visa. For information about exemptions from the visa requirements, see the Customs & Border Protection page.

If you are in the United States in another valid nonimmigrant status, you may be eligible to change to B-1 status. To change to B-1 status, file a Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . For more information, see the Change my Nonimmigrant Status  page.

At the port of entry, an immigration official must authorize your admission to the United States, and, if you are eligible for admission, you may be admitted initially for the period necessary to carry out your business activities, up to a maximum period of 1 year. If you who wish to stay beyond the time indicated on the Form I-94 without departing from the United States, you must file Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, and submit any required supporting documents to USCIS. For more information, see the  Extend my Stay  page.

Your spouse and children are not eligible for a dependent visa. Each of your dependents who will be accompanying or following to join you must apply separately for a B-2 visa and must follow the regulations for that visa.

Certain personal or domestic servants accompanying or following to join individuals in a B, E, F, H, I, J, L, or TN nonimmigrant classification, personal or domestic servants of U.S. citizens who have a permanent home or are stationed in a foreign country, as well as certain employees of foreign airlines, may be eligible for B-1 nonimmigrant status if their activities in the United States are in connection with their foreign employment. Such activities are not considered, for purposes of the B-1 classification, to be prohibited local “employment” or “labor for hire” within the United States.

While these B-1 nonimmigrants are not required to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from USCIS before engaging in their approved B-1 activities, they may still receive an EAD upon request by filing Form I-765. Note, however, that if such persons engage in activities outside their B-1 nonimmigrant status, such as working for another employer in the United States, they will be found to have violated their B-1 nonimmigrant status. They also may not remain in the United States for longer than the authorized period of stay in B-1 nonimmigrant status.

• Athlete Login
• College Coach Login
• Club and HS Coach Login

Everything You Need to Know About Official Visits

Going on official visits is one of the most exciting parts of the recruiting process. Not only do you have the opportunity to see a college campus in person but being invited also signifies that the coach is very interested in you as a recruit. This is your opportunity to get to know the campus, the culture, the team and the dorms and then decide if you would feel comfortable living there for the next four years.

Quick Links

What is an official visit.

So, what makes a visit official? Any visit to a college campus in which any part is financed by the school is considered an official visit. Coaches usually save invitations for their top recruits and getting asked is a huge step on your recruiting journey. It’s important to prepare in advance for this crucial part of the recruiting process. We’ve put together everything you need to know to ace your next official visit.

NCAA official visit rules

Each division level has its own set of rules surrounding official college visits. Division I has the strictest regulations. The following are the rules you need to know:

• The NCAA allows recruits an unlimited number of official visits to Division I schools. Recruits are limited to one per school, unless there is a head coaching change after their visit, in which they are permitted a second visit. Visits to Division II and Division III schools are unlimited.
• The school can pay for the following for you and your parents/guardians: transportation to and from the campus, lodging throughout your visit, three meals per day and three tickets to a home sports event.
• Schools may pay for a recruit’s transportation to and from campus. However, they can only provide transportation for parent/guardians if they travel in the same car as the recruit. Flights and separate bus or train tickets may not be purchased for parents.
• At all levels, recruits can take only one official visit per school.
• Each official visit may be up to 48 hours long, or the span of one weekend.
• D1 men’s ice hockey recruits can begin taking official visits as early as August 1 of their junior year in high school.
• D1 football recruits can begin taking official visits starting April 1 of their junior year of high school.
• D1 women’s basketball recruits may begin taking official visits in April of their junior year of high school, beginning the Thursday following the Women’s Final Four tournament.
• D1 lacrosse, softball and baseball recruits may begin taking official visits September 1 of their junior year of high school.
• For all other DI sports, recruits can begin taking official visits starting August 1 before the athlete’s junior year of high school.
• Official visits are not allowed to occur during recruiting dead periods.

Within these official rules, each school will have a slightly different way in which they conduct visits. Some schools will be able to finance your whole trip, paying for transportation, meals, lodging and tickets to a home game. But this is the maximum of what colleges can provide for their recruits. Some programs simply may not have the money to pay for your entire visit, opting to finance just a small portion of your visit. An official visit can also include having an on-campus lunch or dinner that is purchased by the coach. It doesn’t have to last the full 48 hours—again, that’s the maximum amount but not a requirement.

Generally speaking, the more money a coach spends on your official visit, the higher up on their list you are as a recruit. However, that’s not a reason to discount a program that’s trying to recruit on a budget. If you’re interested in a school, official visits can be the last piece of the puzzle to help you understand if it’s your best college fit.

What are the new recruiting rules around official visits?

Effective on April 13, 2023, the NCAA Division I Council announced that they will no longer limit the number of official visits recruits can make to NCAA member schools. Starting July 1, 2023, recruits are permitted an unlimited number of official visits to Division I schools, unless there is a head coaching change post-visit, in which case recruit is allowed to complete a second official visit to the same school. For men’s basketball, prospects still will be able to complete a second official visit to the same school, as long as it do not occur in the same academic year.

Effective May 1, 2019, the NCAA created a series of updated recruiting rules to slow down the recruiting process and cut back on the number of recruits getting verbal offers as eighth graders, freshmen and sophomores in high school. Athletes will now have more time to research colleges and focus on developing athletically and academically. Then, as juniors and seniors in high school, they will be better equipped to decide which college or university is right for them.

According to the new rules, DI recruits in most sports can now start taking official and unofficial visits starting August 1 before their junior year of high school. In the past, official visits weren’t permitted until the athlete’s senior year of high school and there were no restrictions on unofficial visits. While this is exciting news for recruits eager to visit campuses, these rule changes will also likely put more emphasis on athletes and families needing to be proactive early in the recruiting process. With top prospects being offered official visits their junior year, this means even more schools can lock down their recruiting classes early. As a recruit, you need to start the recruiting process as early as possible so you’re ready for official visit invites August 1 before junior year.

How does an official visit work?

Depending on the sport and division level, athletes can begin taking official visits junior year. A coach may extend an official visit offer to recruits during a phone call, email, text or direct message. Once a coach invites you, grab your family schedule and work out a weekend to take the trip.

While receiving an invite does indicate you are at the top of a coach’s recruiting list, it doesn’t mean you’ve locked in your spot just yet. This means the coach will be evaluating you during your entire official visit. Most importantly, visits are a great way for coaches to get a better understanding of your personality and character. They want to see if you are a recruit who will be a positive asset to their team and the school.

To learn more, check out our video on  how to schedule your visits , where NCSA recruiting experts share what you can expect. This includes what travel expenses might be covered by the program, activities that coaches use to introduce you to the team and campus, and what coaches expect from recruits during a visit. 

Insider Tip : Coaches will look at how you interact with your parents—are you respectful, courteous and kind? Or, do you brush them off and behave rudely? Do you answer the coaches’ questions thoughtfully or do you give one-word responses? While it may be intimidating to visit a college campus and get evaluated by the coaches throughout, it’s important to make an effort to put your best foot forward.

How to prepare for your official visit

Because official visits are more formal than unofficial visits, there’s a bit more prep work required from athletes before the visit takes place. Follow this checklist to make sure you’ve covered all your bases:

• Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center . Before your visit, the coach needs to know that you are eligible to actually compete at their school. If you’re visiting Division I and Division II schools, you need to get a Certification Account . Make sure that your parent/guardian is with you as you sign up, because there is a fee involved. This is a good step to take your sophomore year of high school, so you’re ready to start taking official visits your junior year. If you’re visiting a Division III school, sign up for an NCAA Profile page, which is the free version of the Certification Account. You only need a Certification Account if you’re actively getting recruited by Division I and/or Division II colleges. When you register with the NCAA Eligibility Center , you will receive your NCAA ID number. Many coaches will ask for your NCAA ID number before your official visit.
• Have the coach add you to the Institutional Request List. This is another formality to ensure that you are eligible to compete at an NCAA school. Request that the coach add you to the IRL list, which will put your Eligibility Center application on a fast track to get cleared. Because the NCAA receives so many requests through its Eligibility Center, the Institutional Request List serves to make sure athletes who need to be cleared quickly will be.
• Send the admissions office your transcript and a standardized test score. If you’ve already registered with the Eligibility Center, the school should be able to access your transcript and test scores. However, this step helps the admissions office ensure that your academic criteria are up to the standards of that school, while the NCAA Eligibility Center ensures that you’ve met the academic requirements mandated by the NCAA to compete in college sports.
• Know how you will respond if you receive an offer. As mentioned earlier, offers are not guaranteed during official visits, but they do happen. To avoid freezing on the spot, go into your official visit with a game plan for how you will respond. If this is your top school and you’ve visited the other colleges you’re interested in, it might make sense to say yes as soon as possible. However, if you have other schools on your list, you can ask the coach when the offer will expire.

• Put together your list of questions for the coach. During your official visit, you will have a chance to get all your questions answered, so take advantage of this opportunity. Sit down with your parents before the visit and brainstorm all your questions. Write down your questions for the coach and bring the list with you. This way, you don’t forget an important topic and you can impress the coach with your preparedness.

Read more: How to Maximize Your Summer Visits

Do parents go on official visits?

Parents are invited to go on official visits. The school can pay for three meals per day and tickets to a home sports match. However, the school is only allowed to pay for their transportation to and from campus if the parents are traveling in the same car as the recruit. Flights and separate bus or train tickets may not be purchased for parents. Parents have a very specific role throughout the official visit: Let the athlete be the focus of the experience.

For some parents, it might be hard to let go and allow their student-athlete to take center stage during this visit. However, parents should let their athlete ask questions and take control of the conversation. Give them an opportunity to hold a candid, uninterrupted conversation with the coach. Allow them to make their own opinions about the school before injecting your point of view. When the conversation turns to finances, scholarships and paying for college, this is where coaches typically expect parents to jump in .

For more on the topic, check out the video below featuring former sports broadcaster David Kmiecik and D1 and D3 swim coach Danny Koenig.

Read more:   Recruiting Tips for Parents

What happens on an official visit?

While every official visit will be slightly different, recruits can expect that the trip will include a campus tour. This is your chance to familiarize yourself with the campus and ask yourself if you would enjoy living there for four years. As you tour the campus, take notes. When you’re trying to remember what you liked—and didn’t like—about each of the schools you visited, you can refer back to your notes to help jog your memory about the trip. Use the following checklist to make sure you hit all the key spots on campus:

• Check out the library and sit in on a class.
• Visit the different housing options, both on and off campus.
• Meet your future training staff.
• Eat in the school cafeteria or food court.
• Set up a meeting with an academic adviser.
• Hang out on the campus grounds.
• Stay off your phone and experience the campus.

Coaches typically will want you to meet a few members of the team—or the whole team—to see how your chemistry checks out. You may also be invited to participate in a workout or another team activity. According to NCAA rules, however, any kind of workout you attend on an official visit cannot be organized by the coach or coaching staff. Typically, the workout will be led by the team’s captains. Take this opportunity to see if you connect with your potential teammates.

Questions to expect from the coach on your official visit

You will also likely get some one-on-one time with the coach. This is a chance for you to ask any final questions that you have. Before your visit, write down some questions and keep adding to the list so you have something to go off of when you sit down with the coach. The coach will also probably have some questions for you, too. Here are just a few examples of questions to expect from a coach during your visit:

• “What other schools are recruiting you?” Be honest here and tell the coach other schools you’re actively talking to. If it’s true, list schools that are rivals with or comparable to the school you’re visiting. This will make the coach want you on their team even more.
• “What other colleges are you visiting?” Again, it’s important to be honest. If you have—or haven’t—visited any other schools yet, let them know.
• “When can you commit?” While getting invited on an official visit doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get an offer, it certainly does happen. If this is your number one school and you have a good feeling about it, this might be the right time to lock down a commitment. If you have any other schools to visit before you make your decision, that’s OK, too. Simply make an educated guess when you think you will know. Ask the coach how long the offer stands and when they would like to know your answer.

Some coaches will arrange for you and your parents to attend a home sporting event. They might also have a teammate take you to dinner or walk you around campus again. Plus, you’ll get some free time to explore the area and learn more about the school.

What to bring on an official visit

A lot of recruits ask us what to wear on an official visit, and our best piece of advice is to err on the side of overdressing, rather than underdressing. You want to look neat and clean throughout your entire trip. For men, bring a collared shirt with nice jeans or khakis. For women, a skirt, dress, nice slacks or jeans are acceptable. Avoid wearing sweatshirts, sweatpants, hats, flip flops and ripped jeans. Bring athletic clothes and shoes in case you get invited to work out with the team.

As mentioned before, it’s a great idea to come with some questions for the coach. When the moment comes to ask your questions, it’s easy to freeze up and forget them all. Having them written down will ensure you get the answers you need, plus it will show the coach that you are organized and responsible. Make sure you do your homework and read up on the school, too.

Your follow-up after the visit

Have you ever heard that the follow-up is the most important part? After each visit, make sure you follow up with the coach. Send them a “thank you” note, thanking them for their time and telling them some of your favorite parts of the visit. You can also let the coach know where you’ll be competing next if they’d like to watch you in person. The follow-up shows the coach you’re a thoughtful, courteous athlete, and it also keeps you top-of-mind as they assemble their roster.

Overall, enjoy your visit! This is your chance to get the “red carpet” treatment and get a taste of what life at that college will be like.

• Instagram link
• TikTok link
• Facebook link
• All in Award
• Press and Media

More Resources

• NCAA Eligibility
• NCAA Recruiting Rules
• How to Get Recruited
• Managing Your Recruiting
• Emailing Coaches
• Recruiting Guide for Parents

Mobile Apps

IMG Academy+

Mental Performance & Nutrition

Athletic Recruiting

Popular Links

• Football Camps
• NCAA Recruiting Calendars
• NCSA Commitments
• NCSA Recruiting Workshops

• AI Content Shield
• AI KW Research
• AI Assistant
• SEO Optimizer
• AI KW Clustering
• Customer reviews
• The NLO Revolution
• Press Center
• Help Center
• Content Resources
• Facebook Group

How to Say Thanks After Company Visits

Table of Contents

Thanking the company for hosting or welcoming you is the smart way to build business relationships. Make sure to let them know that you value the time they spent accommodating you. The best way for you to do that is with a sincere  thank you letter after company visit .

A thank-you letter needs to sound professional and well-thought-out. To help you in making a great thank-you letter, we’ve listed some of the best examples in this article.

We’ll also be discussing what you can do to craft a great thank-you message that will genuinely express your thanks.

How Do You Write an Appreciation Message?

Writing a thank-you message is simpler than you might think. It doesn’t need to be several paragraphs long or use complex sentences. Your message just has to be concise and genuinely express your appreciation. Here are some quick and helpful things to remember when writing your message:

Keep It Concise

Nobody has the time to read a novel-length message. Keep your thank-you letter to one page. A short message that’s well written can leave more impact than several paragraphs that just drag on and on.

Use Formal Salutations

You want to make your letter professional. After all, it is an official thank-you letter from you to the company. To do that, you want to start your letter on the right note with a formal opening salutation. Some examples of this are:

Now that you’ve started your letter formally, you need to end it formally as well. Here are some of the closing salutations you can use before your Signature:

• Best Regards
• Respectfully

Be Specific With What You’re Thankful For

Are you thankful for your host’s time, for a conversation you had, or for their hospitality? Whatever it is, tell them specifically that you appreciate what they did for you. It’s a way of acknowledging their kind gesture.

Sincerity Is Key

As with any letter, sincerity is very important in an outgoing message. The tone and intent of the letter must be genuine and honest. Write in a personable tone, use an active voice, and get straight to the point.

Sincere Thank You Letter After Company Visit Examples

For a company’s product launch.

Dear [Name of Company or Host],

I’m so happy because you took the time to accommodate us and let us see your new and improved products. Your company truly is on the top of its game.

Thanks again for your hospitality. I’m excited to see more of what you have in store for your customers.

Best Regards,

[Signature]

Hi [Name of Company or Host],

Thank you so much for having us at your product launch yesterday. We had such a fun time, and we enjoyed learning more about the new features and capabilities of your product.

It is really fantastic! I think your company has done it again! I can’t wait to see the amazing things you’ll do in the future.

For a School Company Visit

Greetings [Name of Company or Host],

We want to extend our sincere thanks for welcoming our students and us to your facility. It was such a great pleasure to visit your company and to learn about your products.

The students learned so much from the tour. And they loved the gift bags you provided.

Thanks again for your hospitality!

Thank you for hosting our school’s yearly company visits. It truly was a pleasure to be able to visit your factory and meet with the workers.

We appreciate your willingness and kindness in giving us the tour. The students were ecstatic, and they all learned so much.

Kind Regards,

For a Company Event

The business conference conducted by your company was such a great success. Thank you very much for arranging it and inviting such an inspirational guest speaker.

Everyone in the conference room was in awe of his enthusiasm, knowledge, and skill. It definitely was a learning experience all around. Again, thanks so much.

For a Meeting With the Company

Thank you for taking the time to meet with us yesterday to discuss [topic]. This project, [name of project], has many opportunities for future development, and we are excited to get it started.

We are looking forward to working on this special project alongside you. Thank you.

Hosting an event, conference, or meeting takes a lot of effort and time. As such, it’s only polite to thank the host or the company for their hospitality. Send them your appreciation with the thank you letter after company visit examples in this article. You can never go wrong!

Pam is an expert grammarian with years of experience teaching English, writing and ESL Grammar courses at the university level. She is enamored with all things language and fascinated with how we use words to shape our world.

Explore All Thank You Email Articles

Write a thank you for salary increase letter sample.

Nothing beats the joy of receiving a favorable compensation adjustment in your company. Aside from its benefits to your lifestyle…

• Thank You Email

Writing a Positive Thank You Email After a Rejection Letter

Getting rejected for a job application might seem like the most heartbreaking experience. That is the reality in the corporate…

Great Thank You Note Examples for LinkedIn

Gratitude plays a big part when it comes to building strong professional relationships. And as Porter Gale says, your network…

Thank You for your Feedback Messages (Answer Templates)

Companies send a lot of thank you for your feedback message. Whether you’re fixing an issue or replying to a…

Writing a Thanks Message For Your Son!

Sometimes, you feel like you should be thanking your children. Yes, raising their diapers, preparing their food, and sending them…

Writing a Sincere Thank You Note for Webinar Speaker

Inviting a guest speaker for your event is a tedious task to do. The effort that this distinguished person will…

What Happens On An Official Visit?

Official visits are a big leap in the recruiting process, so you’re probably wondering what to expect when you go on one. An official visit is when a coach formally invites you to campus for recruiting purposes, allowing you to learn more about the program, experience the school and overall environment first-hand, and get more information about the remaining steps in the process.

When you go on an official visit, you should expect to live a day in the life of a student-athlete on campus. This might include seeing the athletic facilities, meeting the team and coaching staff, seeing academic buildings and meeting professors, and even experiencing the social life. There are a variety of options for activities and ways that the coach might choose to entertain you and show you what the school has to offer.

One thing that’s important to remember is that the official visit is essentially a selling point for both you and the coach. It’s an opportunity for the coach to further your interest in the school, but it’s also a chance for you to learn more, make a good impression, and aid your decision making process. With this in mind, it’s helpful to know what happens on an official visit and how you can best prepare for this exciting day.

What To Expect

Official visits are very exciting and you should try to appreciate everything that they have to offer. There are a number of things that can occur during the visit, so we recommend that you be prepared for what the day could bring.

Guide/Host: While you will meet several people and spend a lot of time with the coaches, you will likely have some sort of host who is a member of the team. This person will be your general guide to help you experience different things aside from the official agenda of the visit.

Athletic Facilities And Events: One of the first things on the official visit itinerary is usually a tour of the athletic facilities. You will likely get a tour of the stadium/arena, the practice facilities, weight room, locker room, and any other part of the team’s property. Additionally, official visits often include attending a home game of some sort at the school so you can get a feel for the athletic environment in real time.

Meeting Teammates And Coaching Staff: The beginning of your official visit will definitely consist of some sort of sit-down meeting with the coach and/or other members of the coaching staff. This is usually just an introductory welcome meeting where the coach will highlight some key elements of the school and give you a general overview of the plan for the visit.

Tours Of Academic Buildings And Classes: Official visits are not just about athletics, but rather they’re meant to give you a well-rounded experience of the school as a whole. You will likely get a tour of the campus, explore various academic buildings, and learn about the different majors, classes, and learning opportunities available. You might even get the opportunity to sit in on a class with your hosts or sit down with a professor to talk over potential coursework, teaching styles, and the balances of student-athlete life.

Meals: Prospects on official visits usually get a chance to experience the various food options that the school and town has to offer. A common practice on official visits is to eat lunch in one of the school's dining halls followed by dinner at a nice restaurant hosted by the coach(es).

Learning About The School: Every college has its own unique offerings and traditions. You might get a chance to learn about some of the school’s history, its culture, and the extracurricular opportunities outside of the classroom and playing field.

Entertainment: The NCAA places strict limits on the entertainment offered on official visits, but there are still plenty of things that the coach can offer to you and your family such as tickets to a game, dinner, bowling, or a similar activity depending on the school’s budget and the NCAA guidelines.

Social Life: Although student-athletes are busy and committed, there is always some time for social life and experiencing different parts of the collegiate experience. You will most likely have some free time with your host to hang out with players, visit local attractions, and meet different students at the school.

Recruiting Questions/Offer(?): At the end of the visit, there will usually be more serious conversations with the coaching staff about your overall recruitment. You should be prepared to answer questions that gauge how serious your interest is, where else you’re recruiting, and what your plans are for your process and your near future. Although it is not guaranteed by any means, coaches frequently make commitment offers during official visits. The program is spending money and resources to show you the school and promote their program, so you should be prepared to handle serious conversations involving potential offers or scholarships.

The main purpose of an official visit is to explore different environments, interact with as many people as possible, and have a well-rounded experience that reflects one of a team-member. Coaches will be evaluating you in a lot of these environments and seeing if you fit the overall culture of the athletic program and the school as a whole, so remember to be respectful and present your best self.

What Is An Official Visit?

Now that you know what to expect, you might be wondering what exactly is an official visit and how it fits into the overall recruiting process.

What Is It?: An official visit is when a prospective student-athlete visits a college campus, and it is almost entirely paid for by the school. This includes travel to and from campus, meals, room, and select entertainment permissible by the NCAA (such as tickets to a home game). The NCAA limits recruits to take one official visit per school, and each visit is usually one to two days. Athletes however are allowed to take unlimited unofficial visits, but these are not paid for by the school.

When Can I Take An Official Visit?: NCAA regulations determine when prospective student-athletes are allowed to take official visits. The rules vary depending on division and sport, but the earliest possible time to take an official visit is the beginning of junior year of high school.

How Does It Work?: Prospective-athletes must be invited by the school to go on an official visit. These invites are usually extended by coaches via phone call or email. Parents/guardians are allowed to attend with the athlete, but the school is not allowed to pay for as many of their expenses. An official visit does not guarantee an offer, but it is a very serious step in the recruiting ladder, and the day is very much a part of the evaluation process.

It’s necessary to understand the basics of official visits, how they work, and some of the logistics, but the more important part is knowing what will actually happen on the visit. That way, you can be prepared for the trip and the various implications that it might have.

Things To Keep In Mind

Take It Seriously: There are a number of ways to express to the coaches and teammates that you’re serious about the opportunity to visit the school. Dress nicely, bring a positive attitude, and have an open-minded approach. You will learn and experience a diverse range of things while on your visit, so try to soak it all in and seriously consider if it’s the right fit for you, but also present yourself in a way that impresses the people around you.

Be Yourself: While you want to be serious and respectful of the visit, try to be yourself and envision being a student-athlete at the school. At the end of the day, recruiting is all about finding the right fit for both you and the school, so try to be yourself because you want to demonstrate who you are and take comfort in experiencing the visit.

Learn And Ask Questions: An official visit is a huge learning experience, and it will be packed with information and experiences in a number of settings. Use this opportunity to be proactive and learn as much as you can so you can find certainty in your opinion on the school.

Be Prepared: Preparation is a very important part of official visits because the experience can be both exciting and intimidating at times. Remember that your official visit is a big part of the coach’s evaluation of you on a personal level, so you should envision yourself in the various situations described above and be ready to embrace them with your best foot forward. Lastly, official visits are one of the most serious parts of recruiting, so you should know what you’re going to say in different conversations about potential offers and your overall status in the recruiting process.

Keep Reading?

Example sentences official visit

Harry ends his three-day official visit to the city today.

Today marks the start of their second official visit in five years.

Or was it an official visit ?

The glebe terrier would be drawn up at the time of each visitation, an official visit usually by the archdeacon.

During the recruiting process, prospective student-athletes go on an official visit to the school they are being recruited by.

Definition of 'official' official

Definition of 'visit' visit

COBUILD Collocations official visit

Browse alphabetically official visit.

• official supplier
• official title
• official version
• official visit
• official warning
• official website
• official welcome
• All ENGLISH words that begin with 'O'

Quick word challenge

Quiz Review

Score: 0 / 5

Wordle Helper

Scrabble Tools

Seamless account management from anywhere

Get access to all of your Comcast Business services anytime, on any device.

• Comcast Business App
• Digital Experience Guide

Get instant access to your Comcast Business services. My Account empowers you to manage and personalize the features that help your business be ready for what’s next. 

• Customize your product features including WiFi networks, Call Forwarding with Voice service, and more
• Quickly pay your bill, enroll in Paperless Billing and set up Auto Pay
• Check your connection status and restart your modem
• Easily manage WiFi settings and find Xfinity hotspots accessible with Comcast Business Internet 

The Comcast Business App

Managing your account has never been easier. Quick and convenient, the Comcast Business App is your one-stop shop for seamless access to your Comcast Business services – right in the palm of your hand.

• Manage account details and settings
• Troubleshoot technical issues
• Make bill payments and sign up for Auto Pay
• Business Internet customers can customize WiFi settings
• Business TV customers can view their channel lineup
• Business Voice customers can stay connected with Call Forwarding, record customized greetings for callers, and display their Comcast Business Voice number on caller IDs when making outgoing calls through the app

Control is in your hands.

Paperless Billing

Online bill pay, want to make a secure payment without signing in.

Try Quick Pay

Digital experience guide

Search for jobs

Working at HP

Sustainable Impact

Accessibility

Join Talent Community

Interns talk about their experiece at HP.

Bring your ambitions and discover what’s possible with a company that believes in you.

Interns at hp will join a community of professionals who….

You’ll use advanced tools and technology to tackle complex challenges.

You will join HP’s global community that will support you in doing your best work.

Work with managers and a network of professionals who want you to succeed and will guide you toward growing your skillset.

How do I find the time to help the planet?

How would I describe my career?

Where’s my professional path taking me.

Be part of a global laboratory innovating at the intersection of data and the physical world to solve problems in new ways.

Graduates at HP will join a community of professionals who…

Join an interdisciplinary community of professionals who learn from each other—both on the job and through structured programming.

Because we’re creating new services, products, and capabilities, you’ll have more opportunities to grow than at many companies.

HP offers support and benefits that meet you where you are in your life journey.

What have I learned as a gamer?

How do i approach transformation.

What’s my team’s rallying cry?

Explore all intern and graduate opportunities, primary location, additional locations, join a global community that will support you in doing your best work., stay connected:, my applications, job applicant privacy notice, accessibility and legal statements.

• Tata Steel share price
• 163.35 -0.03%
• HDFC Bank share price
• 1,549.40 1.41%
• ITC share price
• 427.85 1.21%
• Mahindra & Mahindra share price
• 2,012.15 0.48%
• NTPC share price
• 354.40 -0.10%

Bihar Board Class 10 Result 2024: BSEB Matric scrutiny, compartment exam registration begins. Direct link to apply

Bseb bihar board 10th result 2024: the bseb said students who wish to apply for the scrutiny, compartment examination can visit the board's official website biharboardonline.com and register for the same by tuesday i.e. april 9..

BSEB Bihar Board 10th result 2024: The Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) has started the registration process for scrutiny of Matric (Class 10) board examination answer sheets and also for compartmental examination of the same for Academic Year 2023-2024 from April 3. The BSEB said students who wish to apply for the scrutiny, compartment examination can visit the board's official website https://biharboardonline.com/ and register for the same by Tuesday i.e. April 9.

It is important to note that the BSEB will deactivate the scrutiny application and the compartment examination registration link after April 9.

Bihar Board Class 10 Result 2024: Scrutiny and compartment examination fee

The application fee for the scrutiny application is ₹ 120 per paper. The application fee for the Compartment exam 2024 is ₹ 1010 for general and ₹ 895 for SC, ST, EBC (BC-1) category candidates.

Bihar Board Class 10 Result 2024: Compartment exam result

The BSEB will declare the compartment exam results by May 31. The BSEB further said the other details and information related to the date of the Bihar Board Matric Compartment Exam 2024 will be announced later.

Taking to microblogging platform X, the BSEB has posted the official notification about the scrutiny of answer sheets:

Bihar Board Class 10 compartment exam and scrutiny: Direct link to apply

Class 10 students, who have failed in two or more subjects can take the Compartmental examination. This provides them with another chance to pass Class 10.

In 2024, a total of 16,64,252 students (8,58,785 girls and 8,05,467 boys) appeared for the Matric examination, and out of them 13,79,842 passed. The pass percentage stands at 82.91.

Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world 🌏 Click here to know more.

Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!

Wait for it…

Log in to our website to save your bookmarks. It'll just take a moment.

You are just one step away from creating your watchlist!

Oops! Looks like you have exceeded the limit to bookmark the image. Remove some to bookmark this image.

Your session has expired, please login again.

Congratulations!

You are now subscribed to our newsletters. In case you can’t find any email from our side, please check the spam folder.

Subscribe to continue

This is a subscriber only feature Subscribe Now to get daily updates on WhatsApp