For International Guests
We realize that international travel can be a lot of work and sometimes a confusing experience. To make things easier for you, we've tried to answer many of the questions asked by international guests.
Visas
Most international participants must obtain visas prior to entering the United States. Allow as much time as possible to obtain the visa, as the U.S. Embassy can take months to issue the appropriate documents. To locate the nearest U.S. Embassy and discuss questions about the application process, please visit the U.S. Department of State online.
Important: Neither the National Conference on Volunteering and Service nor its conveners act as a sponsoring organization for any individual or organization attending the conference. A letter of invitation from Conference is not enough for the U.S. Embassy to issue a visa. Please work with NGOs or governmental organizations in your home country for sponsorship, as this has shown to be the most helpful. Once you have local sponsorship, we will be happy to furnish a letter of invitation.
Review the contact information for foreign consulate offices in Chicago.
Registering for the Conference
The best way for international participants to register for the conference is by using the conference's online registration system.
Register now.
Hotel Reservations
The conference offers discounted hotel rates. To receive these rates, you must book your rooms through the hotel registration website which you can access once you've completed Conference registration. Learn about our Conference locations and accommodations by visiting our website.
Currency
We recommend arriving in the United States with some cash in U.S. dollars.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards are accepted at most places in the United States. When paying with a credit card, you will often be asked to show a form of identification, so please have your passport available.
Exchanging Foreign Currency in Chicago
Automated teller machines (ATMs) can be found throughout Chicago and are often the most convenient way for visitors to obtain cash. Exchange rates often are better and transaction fees lower when an ATM is used. In addition, the following locations exchange foreign currency:
American Express Travel Service
605 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 105
(Magnificent Mile 60611)
312-435-2570
Mon. - Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
2338 N. Clark St.
(Lincoln Park 60614)
773-477-4000
Tues. - Fri. 9:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Sat. 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
122 S. Michigan Ave.
(Loop 60603)
312-435-2595
Mon. - Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
The Northern Trust Company
50 S. LaSalle St., 60675
(Loop location), 312-630-6000
Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
World's Money Exchange, Inc.
203 N. LaSalle St., Mezzanine Level, Suite M1 (Loop 60601)
312-641-2151
Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Foreign Currency Exchange at O'Hare International Airport
Foreign Currency Exchange outlets are located in Terminals Three and Five at O'Hare International Airport. Additional mobile carts equipped to handle foreign currency are available at some departure gates servicing international destinations.
Travelers' Checks
The majority of establishments in Chicago do accept travelers' checks including restaurants, bars, shops and hotels. Please make sure to contact your hotel directly to confirm that travelers' checks are accepted.
Conference Attire
Dress for conference events is referred to as "business casual" in the United States. This means dress neatly, but there is no need for coats and ties. Traditional national dress is welcome at the conference, and you are encouraged to represent your home country in this way.
