Many visitors traveling to Canada for the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games may be planning either to transit the United States en route to Canada or to visit the United States at some point during their trip.

Citizens of most countries require a visa to enter the United States. This includes many travelers who do not require a visa to enter Canada. In addition, citizens of some countries require a visa to transit the United States while traveling to or from Canada.

Travelers considering a visit to or transiting through the United States should check the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence to determine whether or not they require a visa to enter or transit the United States. Information about United States Embassies and Consulates can be found at:

For travelers interested in visiting the United States who will require a visa, the U.S. Department of State strongly advises scheduling a visa interview with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence well in advance of a planned visit. Wait times for visa interview appointments are posted on the websites of U.S. Embassies and Consulates and applicants should plan accordingly.

Because there is usually a wait of several weeks for appointments at the United States Embassy and Consulates in Canada, it is unlikely that visitors to Canada will be able to obtain appointments to apply for United States visas after their arrival in Canada.

Other information about United States visa requirements, new border crossing requirements and other related issues may be found at the official State Dept. web site: