January 15-17, 2026
Sheraton Times Square; New York City, NY
United States Travel Information
ABAI wants to ensure everyone traveling to the United States (U.S.) to be a part of our event has the most current and comprehensive travel information possible. We remain dedicated to ensuring everyone at our event feels safe and welcome, and ABAI’s has not wavered.
Those traveling from outside of the U.S. are advised to be aware of new policies of the U.S. government. ABAI remains proud of our international community and grateful to our members from all countries for their support of the science of behavior analysis. To our international members planning to travel to the U.S. for our upcoming annual convention, please familiarize yourself with any new measures or advisories issued by your home country.
The safety of our attendees is our top priority. Please take a moment to read the information below and to review the Accessibility, Safety, and Inclusion information for this event. Please feel free to contact us at mail@abainternational.org with any questions.
Traveling to the United States
If you are not a U.S. citizen and are visiting the U.S. for ABAI’s convention, please review the following information to prepare for your visit.
The United States generally requires a visitor visa for business (B-1 visa) or tourism (B-2 visa) trips. To obtain the visa, please complete the DS-160 application form, and bring the completed application and a photo meeting the requirements to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country, typically via appointment. Visitors under 14 and over 80 years of age generally do not need a visitor visa.
A valid passport is required to obtain a visitor visa. Please ensure your passport is not expired. It may also be necessary to provide information regarding the purpose of the trip, your intention to depart the U.S. at the end of the trip, and information related to the costs of the trip.
A valid passport is required to obtain a visitor visa. Please ensure your passport is not expired. It may also be necessary to provide information regarding the purpose of the trip, your intention to depart the U.S. at the end of the trip, and information related to the costs of the trip.
If your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), travel to the U.S. without a visa may be possible. It may still be necessary to apply for travel authorization online through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). More information is available here.
If you are a Canadian citizen, you must provide proof of your Canadian citizenship upon entry to the U.S. More information is available here.
Travel Checklist
- Passport and travel documents
- Medications
- Currency: credit cards, personal checks, or cash
- Adapters and converters
- Travel insurance
If applicable, notify your bank that you will be traveling to prevent credit cards from being flagged for fraud. Additionally, check whether your mobile phone plan includes international service.
For an international flight, it is generally recommended to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your scheduled departure time to allow ample time for check-in, security screening, and customs procedures. Check your airline's specific recommendations, the airport you are departing from, and any potential peak travel times.
Some other helpful resources are the United States Department of State Traveler’s Checklist and the Checklist for Older Travelers.
Local Embassy and Consulates Information
If you are not a U.S. citizen and are visiting the U.S. for ABAI’s convention, please review the following information to prepare for your visit.
- Lost or Stolen Passports: Assistance with issuing emergency passports or replacing lost/stolen ones.
- Legal Issues: Help if detained, arrested, or needing legal representation abroad. Consulates can notify families, ensure access to legal counsel, and provide welfare checks.
- Medical Emergencies: Guidance on accessing local medical care or navigating foreign healthcare systems.
- Victim Assistance: Support for those who have been robbed, assaulted, or otherwise victimized, including connecting with local resources like lawyers and police.
- Emergency Evacuations: Coordination during crises such as natural disasters, civil unrest, or political emergencies.
- Document Services: Notarizing documents, issuing birth or death certificates for citizens abroad, and assisting with citizenship matters.
US Travel Info
More embassy information can be found on the Embassy Worldwide Directory.
Safety Tips
ABAI encourages all attendees to review our event-related emergency protocol and safety information on the Accessibility, Safety, and Inclusion page. Additionally, the following steps are recommended:
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Check the local news to stay informed.
- Secure your belongings. Keep your passport and valuables secure; avoid carrying large sums of cash.
- Be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas like public transportation or tourist spots.
- Use well-lit and secure accommodation and transportation options.
Travel Insurance
Consider a travel insurance policy to cover emergency medical expenses, lost luggage, or other expenses. Please note that most travel insurance policies must be purchased prior to departing on the trip. More information about travel insurance is available here. For information specifically pertaining to travel medical insurance, see here.
Currency
The official currency of the United States is the U.S. dollar. The exchange rates fluctuate and can be checked Checklist for Older Travelers.