We warmly welcome attendees traveling from abroad to join the conference in Chicago. Below, you will find a collection of information to help make your travel preparations easier.
Visa information
Anyone who requires a letter of support may contact Galen Tsongas (gtsongas@uchicago.edu - mm Universe 2025 Event Manager) for a letter of support via the Kavli Institute for Cosmological Physics (KICP) at the University of Chicago.
Please note that the University of Chicago does not offer visitors any institutional assistance with visas. We can offer the above letter of support, but we are unable to offer ANY other assistance (including reimbursements or financial assistance) - your visa is between you, your institution / government, and the US State Department.
For all other visa inquiries (esp. B-1 visas): https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visitor.html.
Payment Methods in the United States
In the United States, there are various payment methods commonly used for both everyday purchases and online transactions. Here are the most popular options:
- Credit, debit and prepayed Cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and stores. However, debit cards may sometimes cause issues, so it is recommended to have at least one other payment option available as a backup;
- Cash and ATMs: You can easily withdraw cash from ATMs, which are widely available, especially in airports and shopping areas;
- International Payment Cards: Consider using cards such as Revolut or Wise, which are particularly advantageous for international travel due to their low fees and favorable exchange rates.
It's recommended to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage abroad.
Telephony and Internet Access
During your stay in the United States, staying connected is essential. Here are some options to consider:
- Check with Your Carrier: Before traveling, it’s recommended to check with your mobile carrier for any advantageous international plans. Many carriers offer roaming options that can be cost-effective for short stays.
- eSIM: Another convenient option is to purchase an eSIM from services like Airalo. These systems allow you to activate a data plan for short periods without changing your phone number, offering a practical and flexible solution for international travelers.
Additionally, free Wi-Fi will be available at the conference venue.
Health Insurance
It is highly recommended that all attendees have health insurance coverage during their stay in the United States. Medical care in the U.S. can be expensive, and having insurance will ensure that you are covered in case of any medical emergencies.
- Check Your Current Insurance: Before traveling, verify with your insurance provider whether your existing health insurance covers you internationally, and if it includes coverage while in the United States.
- Travel Insurance: If your current insurance does not offer international coverage, consider purchasing travel health insurance. Many providers offer short-term policies that cover medical emergencies abroad.
- Travel Insurance Providers: Some popular providers for travel health insurance include Allianz, Seven corners, and Columbus. Ensure that the policy covers emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and medical evacuation, if needed.
For attendees who do not have health insurance, we strongly recommend arranging coverage prior to your trip to avoid unexpected medical costs during your stay.
