FFI Visa Policy
In recent years some clubs have encountered difficulties obtaining visas for their outbound exchanges. It is important for the host club to recognize that these difficult situations are often the ones where the Friendship Force mission is most needed. Therefore, host clubs are encouraged to accept exchanges with clubs from these countries and to work with FFI and the ambassador club to carry out the exchange, even if it means adjusting some of the usual planning schedule.
It is the responsibility of the ambassador exchange director to determine what visas will be required, if any, to travel. This should be done as soon as the exchange is assigned. If there is the expectation that obtaining visas will be a problem, the following steps should be followed:
• The ambassador ED should meet with embassy or consular officials of the host country as soon as possible to determine what steps are required to apply for visas.
• FFI and the host clubs should respond promptly to any requests for documentation regarding the Friendship Force experience. However, the ambassador club should not expect host families to issue private invitations that include guarantees of financial support.
• The ambassador ED should thoroughly screen all applicants for the exchange and reject any who may be a risk for not returning home.
• The ambassador ED should ensure that all qualified applicants apply for their visa interview as soon as possible in order to avoid last minute decisions.
• Host clubs should recognize that visa decisions are beyond the control of the ambassador club and that often the decision is made at the last minute. In such situations, the host club is encouraged to keep open the possibility of hosting the exchange, but to avoid making firm commitments until the visas have been issued. In some cases this may mean waiting until just before the exchange to make the final hosting and program arrangements.
