International Visitors
What You'll Need to Know
For international attendees and exhibitors, this section features your Letter of Invitation, VISA application form, and links to locate your U.S. Embassy.If you are an international visitor, be reminded that the United States government has instituted new, tighter visa requirements for non-immigrant applicants. This may lengthen the amount of time it takes to process your VISA application. As a result, get an early jump on your visa application process by obtaining all the necessary documentation.Whether you are an attendee or exhibitor, there are several things you must do in advance to prepare for your trip to the United States. Please review the tabs below to get the information you need.
The U.S. government requires residents of many countries to obtain a temporary visa before entering the United States. Recent changes to the visa application process may have increased the length of time required to receive your visa. It is very important to apply for a visa at least 90 days prior to departure. For information on U.S. visa policies and procedures, visit the U.S. Department of State Website.
You must register to attend The International Surface Event (TISE): SURFACES | StonExpo | TileExpo in order to receive an official VISA invitation letter which will become available on the confirmation webpage at registration completion. We are no longer providing individually-customized letters of invitation for the purpose of applying for Visas. However, once you have booked your exhibit space and registered as an exhibitor, your emailed registration confirmation will serve the same purpose as a letter of invitation and can be used in your Visa application process. The TISE registration confirmation email will include your individual and company information as well as demonstrate the purpose of your trip. Note that you may still opt to request the traditional letter of invitation through the registration system, but it will no longer contain personal information as it has in the past. It will be a generic letter stating that you are registered to exhibit at TISE -- which is the same information that will be provided within your registration confirmation email.
Please make your hotel and travel arrangements by visiting the The International Surface Event (TISE): SURFACES | StonExpo | TileExpo's Official Housing Provider page. If you have further questions, please contact the event registration. We look forward to seeing you at the show!
The VISA Waiver Program (VWP) enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for a maximium of 90 days without obtaining a visa. Travelers must have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to travel. In addition, travelers must meet all requirements listed on the VISA Waver Program website.
VWP travelers must present a machine-readable passport (MRP) at the U.S. post of entry to enter the U.S. without a visa. To obtain a complete list of exempt countries and learn more, visit the Visa Waiver Program website.
Industry professionals from more than 50 countries around the world will be joining us for this year's event. Plus, exhibitors from more than 30 countries will be showcasing the latest innovations. It's truly a global view of the floor covering, stone and tile industries!
Event Basics
Language
Sessions at The International Surface Event (TISE): SURFACES | StonExpo | TileExpo are conducted in English.
Venue
Our event will be held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV USA.
Weather
Prior to traveling to Las Vegas for the event, you may wish to check the Las Vegas 10-day weather forecast.
Exchange Rate
Help plan your trip by checking the current exchange rate of your currency to U.S. dollars.
Tipping
Tipping in the United States is customary. A 15% to 20% tip is usually expected in restaurants, taxis, and for any other services you receive.
Etiquette
Become familiar with American etiquette for private, public, and business interactions.
Time
Las Vegas is located in the Pacific Time Zone.
Electricity
Typically, in the United States, Voltage 120, frequency 60 Hz. The two type of adapters you may be required to use: two flat blades or two flat blades with a round grounding pin.
- Telephone
- U.S. country code: +1
- Las Vegas area code: (702)
- U.S. telephone numbers have ten digits total, which includes the area code and a seven digit phone number (e.g.,702.555.1234)
- To make a call, dial 1 + area code + seven-digit number
- To call internationally from Las Vegas, dial "011" + country code + area code + number
Internet
Most hotels offer high-speed Internet connections and Internet cafés are plentiful.
Emergencies
Dial 911 from any phone.
Business Hours
Standard business hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
Attire
Attire at The International Surface Event (TISE): SURFACES | StonExpo | TileExpo is business casual. Since meeting room temperatures and personal comfort ranges may vary, a light sweater or jacket is recommended. Also, you may wish to wear comfortable shoes, as walking distances in Las Vegas can be long.
Las Vegas City Highlights
Las Vegas is a city rich in culture and cuisine that welcomes visitors from around the world. Spend some time before or after The International Surface Event (TISE): SURFACES | StonExpo | TileExpo exploring this exciting destination city. Consult the Convention & Visitors Bureau for ideas and resources.
If you have specific questions in the meantime, please contact us.
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