The Canadian visa application has recently been revised and no longer requires disclosure of HIV status on the application form. This change is permanent, and not just for the Conference period.

The updated form can be found on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website.

A passport is the ideal identification for United States residents. Citizens born in the U.S can show a birth certificate, certificate of citizenship or naturalisation, plus photo identification. Permanent residents of the U.S. who are not citizens need to bring their U.S. Permanent Resident Card (‘green card’).

Current information on requirements can be found on the consular sections at individual U.S. embassy and consulate homepages.

Travellers from countries other than the U.S. may require a "Temporary Resident" visa (includes short-term visitors) or other special documentation to enter or transit Canada. Visitors entering Canada must clear Canada Customs border security upon entry.

It is strongly advised that travellers check the visa requirements for travel from specific countries as soon as they are thinking about attending the symposium, and to begin the visa application process at least eight to twelve weeks in advance of August 11, 2006. According to Canadian immigration, visitors to Canada from any county who have a criminal background need to apply as soon as possible to obtain necessary documentation in time to enter Canada. Visitors to Canada should contact the nearest Canadian Embassy or Consulate, visit Canada International at Canada International or call 1-888-242-2100 (from within Canada) or 1-800-992-7037 (from outside Canada) for more information.

The Canadian "Application for a Temporary Resident Visa" was revised in May 2005 and no longer requires the disclosure of specific medical diagnoses, including HIV status, on the application form, except for tuberculosis of the lung. This change is permanent, and not just for the Conference period. The updated form in French and English can be found at www.cic.gc.ca/English/applications/visa.html. For more detailed information on Canada's travel policy and people with HIV/AIDS, visit the website of the Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network at www.aidslaw.ca.