Welcome to our support guide for approved international contributors traveling to the United States for the ETHDenver event. This article provides essential tips to help ensure a smooth entry into the country. Please remember, this is not legal advice but a set of practical recommendations.
For legal inquiries, we advise consulting with a qualified lawyer.
1. Important Documents to Carry: To facilitate your entry into the U.S., please carry the following documents with you at all times during your travel (not in your checked luggage):
- Your official ETHDenver acceptance email.
- ETHDenver Support Letter (applicable if you are an International Sponsor Employee, Speaker, Mentor, or Judge, as this letter would have been emailed to you).
2. Contact Information to Have at Hand: Keep the following contact information both printed and stored in your cell phone:
- Your designated U.S. stateside representative or alternative contact not traveling with you.
- Colorado Immigrant Rights Hotline: Phone: 1-844-864-8341
Additionally, ensure you have the address and phone number of your accommodation in Denver easily accessible.
3. General Travel Tips:
- If questioned by CBP about your visit, state that your primary purpose is attending the ETHDenver Community Innovation Festival. If there are secondary reasons for your visit, mention them accordingly.
- For those contributing to ETHDenver in roles like Speaking, Workshop, #BUIDLathon Judging, or Mentoring, clarify that your participation is an invitation from ETHDenver and is not a paid engagement. Carry and present your ETHDenver Support Letter if required.
- Ensure your phone is fully charged, set to vibrate after disembarking the plane.
- Maintain a neat appearance.
- Plan to arrive during normal business hours (9AM-4PM MST) for ease of contact in case of issues.
- Travel directly to Denver airports, as the state is familiar with the event.
4. Navigating Customs and Border Protection (CBP):
- Be aware of the CBP's comprehensive authority at the entry point.
- CBP officers may appear assertive; maintain composure and understanding of their high-pressure role.
- Avoid phone calls until you are past the secure area. If urgent, use discreet texting.
- The first CBP inspector decides on immediate entry or secondary inspection referral.
- Be prepared for possible device checks and password requests.
5. Effective Communication with CBP:
- Stay calm, make eye contact, and respond truthfully to questions. Approach CBP counters individually, not in groups.
- Be concise and only answer what is asked.
- Politely disagree if necessary and admit when you do not know an answer.
- Thoroughly read any document before signing at secondary inspection. Request a translator if there is a language barrier.
6. Final Reminders:
- Remember, obtaining a visa does not guarantee entry; the CBP official at the port has the final say.
- Review the Visa Waiver Program details on the Department of Homeland Security website, especially if using the VWP or ESTA. Be mindful of any engagements in the U.S. outside of ETHDenver activities, as they might conflict with U.S. immigration regulations.
For additional support or queries related to travel for ETHDenver, please contact visasupport@ethdenver.com