Visa Information

Since Germany is a member state of the Schengen Area, it allows nationals of 62 countries to enter Germany for stays of a maximum of 90 days without having to apply or obtain a visa. Citizens of EU member states: no visa required. Citizens of Non-EU states: visa always required. For additional details and specific visa requirements, please see links below or contact the German Embassy in your country.

Information on visas and passports Berlin

Read full details on Germany's entry requirements and visas

SPIE recommends that you secure your travel visa before registering for the conference as cancellations after the preregistration cutoff date may result in a cancellation fee.

Requesting an invitation letter

In This Section

How to request an invitation letter - for authors only

Sign in to this site using your SPIE credentials (username and password)
After you are signed in, click on this link to go directly to the SPIE invitation letter request form page
Click on the “Apply” button to begin the invitation letter request form.

Complete one form per person (requests for accompanying family members can be included in the same application)
Your name must be listed exactly as it appears on your passport. Any differences could lead to delay or denial of your visa
Requests are processed based on the order received, and the date of the conference
You will receive an email from noreply@mail.smapply.net with a link to download a PDF of your official invitation letter after it is approved and processed. You should also make sure that the sites listed here, are allowed by your organization to ensure you receive the email.
Printed invitation letters are mailed by request only. Please allow up to four weeks for delivery
SPIE is unable to contact embassies or consulates on behalf of or in support of any individual making arrangements to attend an SPIE event