Getting your Visa and Getting it Early

Do I need a visa?

All travelers entering the United States must present either a passport or a visa. If you do NOT have a passport, or you are from a country that does NOT participate in the Visa Waiver Program, you must apply for a visa.

The following countries DO NOT require a visa to enter the United States:
http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990.html#countries

Why should I get it early?

Getting your travel documents well in advance of your travel dates is important. If you require a visa, the application process could be lengthy. In some countries, it can take over a month. We strongly suggest you begin the process as soon as possible.

What is involved in applying for a visa?

The visa application process is an interview at the US Embassy explaining your trip to the United States. You should apply for a travel/tourist visa and be sure to let them know that you are only staying in the United States for a short time. It's a good idea to have the following information available at your interview:

An official letter of invitation from TopCoder (please see below)
Proof of residency in your home country
Evidence of employment and community ties, such as a copy of your marriage license or university documents
Your resume

How do I get an official invitation letter from TopCoder?

As stated in the rules, all competitors must request a visa invitation letter by 5:00 PM EDT (GMT/UTC -4) on Monday, April 23, 2007.

Algorithm Competitors: All competitors who advance to Online Round 1 will receive a request form to fill out if they require a letter. As soon as a competitor fills out the form in its entirety, the letter will be shipped out by FedEx International Priority mail.

Component Competitors: All competitors who pass submission on at least one component will receive a request form to fill out if they require a letter. As soon as a competitor fills out the form in its entirety, the letter will be shipped out by FedEx International Priority mail.

Marathon Match Competitors: All competitors who advance to Online Round 4 will receive a request form to fill out if they require a letter. As soon as a competitor fills out the form in its entirety, the letter will be shipped out by FedEx International Priority mail.

Studio Design Competitors: All competitors who pass screening on at least 2 designs will receive a request form to fill out if they require a letter. As soon as a competitor fills out the form in its entirety, the letter will be shipped out by FedEx International Priority mail.

How do I apply for a visa?

Begin by visiting: www.unitedstatesvisas.gov/obtainingvisa/index.html or find your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate: http://usembassy.state.gov

Remember, if you become a finalist in any competition, you MUST show proof of your visa and/or passport by the finalist deadline before TopCoder will book a flight for you. If you do not have your visa and/or passport by the appropriate date, you will be disqualified as a finalist. Please revisit the tournament rules for more information or email Jessie D'Amato Ford.