We at the Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI) pride ourselves on being a diverse, inclusive global organization that does not discriminate, and we firmly believe diversity in our membership makes us stronger. Although we are an apolitical organization, we take seriously our responsibility of ensuring a welcoming and respectful environment for our members worldwide.
As you may be aware, the US Supreme Court recently reinstated parts of a presidential executive order on visas that blocks entry to travelers from Iran, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Libya, and Somalia, regardless of where they now reside, or requires entrants from those countries to have a close, personal relationship with a US citizen. The Supreme Court has agreed to take up the full executive order in October, meaning that there may be additional changes to the policy at that time.
We have been contacted by members who are understandably concerned by the travel restriction and how it may affect their travels to STTI events in the US, particularly the 44th Biennial Convention.
More information about the Executive Order on Visas is available on the US State Department website.
More information about Business Visas is available here.
Foreign travelers coming to the United States to conduct temporary business need visitor visas unless they qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program. Upon request, STTI will supply a visa letter stating an attendee has registered and paid for an event. It is important to note STTI cannot violate existing travel restrictions nor complete visa applications for attendees.
Request a visa support letter on the convention website.
As we approach STTI’s 44th Biennial Convention, we will work with chapters whose delegates may be affected by current travel restrictions.
STTI continues to support our core values, including diversity and inclusiveness, as we work collaboratively to fulfill our mission of advancing world health and celebrating nursing excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service.