Visas
Many international exhibitors will require a visitor visa to enter the United States. Apply early; for scientific conferences, visa applications should be made no later than 90 days prior to travel.
Consult the following for more information and helpful links:
Letter of Invitation
The Academy provides international exhibitors with a specific letter of invitation to use when applying for a Visa, which can be customized for each company representative travelling to New Orleans.
Download the AAO 2021 Exhibitor Letter of Invitation (PDF 190KB).
If you require an embossed letter of invitation, email exhibitions@aao.org for assistance.
Traveling to New Orleans
The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) serves New Orleans. It hosts 16 airlines who serve 55 nonstop destinations. In the fall of 2019 the new world-class terminal officially opened to the public. You will find many enhancements that are geared towards making travel quicker, safer and more enjoyable from arrival to departure. Review their response to COVID-19.
The Academy is committed to the health and well-being of everyone at our annual meeting. All Academy staff working at the meeting will be fully vaccinated, and 96% of US ophthalmologists report that they are also fully vaccinated.
U.S. Travel Restrictions
Travel restrictions for international travelers continue to evolve. We advise you to view the COVID-19 Country Specific Information provided by the U.S. Department of State or check the travel website Kayak for current information.
International Freight Forwarder and Customs Broker
Agility Fairs and Events Logistics LLC is the sole Official Freight Forwarder and Customs Broker appointed by show management to handle all international freight. Some of their services include the shipping of international exhibits to the show, completing Customs clearance procedures, delivering to the appointed site handling contractor and re-exporting the freight at the conclusion of the show.
Review International Shipping Instructions (PDF 1MB)
Contact:
Agility Fairs and Events Logistics LLC
Colin May
Telephone: 1.404.822.5440
Email: cmay@agilitylogistics.com
Caution: Beware of Scams
Fraudulent companies that pretend to be associated with the American Academy of Ophthalmology may appear in web searches or contact you by email. Only book services through Academy official contractor partners. If you are ever in doubt, email exhibitions@aao.org or call 1.415.447.0365 to confirm.