Information for International Visitors

Wherever you are traveling from, we look forward to welcoming you to New York City and the 2024 Summer Fancy Food Show! To help ease your visa application process and overall travel experience, please review the below tips for traveling from outside the U.S. to our Show.

Visa invitation letter

During your registration process, you will be able to request a letter from SFA to include in your visa application. Please be sure to select the option “I’d like to receive a visa invitation letter” when you register for the Show.

The visa letter will be sent via email after your registration is complete, to the email address you used when registering. You will not be able to receive a visa letter until after you have registered for the Show.

To request that your letter be re-sent via email, please contact our registration partner, Maritz:

Maritz Customer Service 
864-342-6390
[email protected]
9 am to 5 pm EST 

You can also always reach us at [email protected].

Does every international visitor need a visa?

No. The U.S. Department of State Visa Waiver Program permits travel to the U.S. from a number of countries without a visa for qualifying visits. 

However, if you do not need a visa to travel to the U.S., you are required to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

Visit the ESTA program website to find the list of countries included in the Visa Waiver Program and get more information about applying. You must register for ESTA before your travel dates.

Visa application tips

Please request your visa invitation letters as early as you can, and no later than 90 days before your travel dates. This is because the visa application process may take 90 days or longer.

To schedule your visa interview, wait until you've received your letter(s) from SFA, then visit the U.S. State Department website to find your nearest U.S. Embassy and make an appointment.

In the case that your visa application is denied, reapply immediately and add any missing or requested information. If this does not resolve it, you should inquire about your case by emailing [email protected] or calling 202-663-3198.

A service called the Visa Assistance Program (recognized by the U.S. State Department) can expedite visa processing and arrange special appointments with the U.S. Consulate Offices. Learn more by visiting the program website.