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.
Please review the information below. If you still need assistance, we are here to help you. Please contact us by phone at 001-651-631-3672 or by email at nslc@nylc.org.
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 for questions about the application process, please visit the U.S. Department of State online.
Important: NYLC does not act as a sponsoring organization for any individual or organization attending the conference. A letter of invitation from NYLC 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.
Registering for the Conference
The best way for international participants to register for the conference is by using NYLC's online registration system. If you do not have access to a credit card or are unable to register online, please contact us by phone at 001-651-631-3672 or by email at nslc@nylc.org.
» Click here to register online
Scholarship
NYLC offers a limited number of partial scholarships based on financial need. The number of scholarships offered is contingent upon limited, variable funding, and scholarships cannot be offered to all qualified applicants.
» Learn more about scholarships
Hotel Reservations
The conference offers discounted hotel rates. To receive these rates, you must book your rooms through the conference hotel bureau.
Transportation
Located two miles north of downtown San Jose, Norman Y. Mineta San José International Airport (SJC) is served by many major domestic carriers, including American, American Eagle, Delta, Frontier, Northwest, Southwest, and U.S. Airways.
For more information, visit the San Jose International Airport online at www.sjc.org or call (408) 501-0979.
International participants may also consider flying into the San Francisco International Airport (SFO). The flight prices may be less expensive. The airport is approximately 37 miles (1 ½ hours) from downtown San Jose hotels and the convention center.
For more information, visit the San Francisco International airport online at http://www.flysfo.com/web/page/index.jsp.
Public transportation or van service are the best modes of transportation to downtown San Jose from either airport. The airport websites will provide details regarding transportation options.
Money
We recommend arriving in the United States with some cash in U.S. dollars.
Credit Cards and Travelers Checks
Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) 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.
The hotels in San Jose may accept travelers’ checks and/or cash payments in foreign currencies. Please contact the hotels directly to inquire about their individual policies. (Please note: Some hotels limit the dollar value of checks cashed and charge check-cashing fees.)
Weather
March temperatures in San Jose are usually 47-67 degrees Fahrenheit (8-19 degrees Celsius).
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.
