May 16–19, 2026
McCormick Place
Chicago, IL
International Attendees
Where the Foodservice World Connects
At the National Restaurant Association Show, you’ll find the people, products and ideas that move the global foodservice industry forward. Experience the latest innovations before they reach your market, connect with peers from more than 100 countries and gain insights you can bring back home — all in one trip to Chicago.
Innovate, Connect and Grow at the Show
Travel and Visa Information
U.S. Entry Requirements
To ensure a smooth entry into the U.S., make sure your travel documentation is up to date. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to attend the Show.
Visa Update (Latest Update - October 1, 2025):
The U.S. government requires a new $250 Visa Integrity Fee for most nonimmigrant visas—including business (B-1/B-2), student, and work categories. This fee is in addition to normal visa application charges and is payable only if your visa is approved. Please note, this information is subject to change. Please visit travel.state.gov for the most update-to-date information.
Current visa processing times and services vary by country, and applications can take several months. We strongly recommend starting the process as early as possible.
Citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) can travel to the U.S. for business or tourism for up to 90 days without a visa. Travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries are exempt from the new Visa Integrity Fee. See the list of participating countries here.
Invitation Letters for Visa Applications
An invitation letter from the Show can be a helpful supporting document for your visa application. Request an invitation letter during registration by selecting “yes” to receive one. Once your registration is complete, the letter will be available for download and printing.
Please note, the Show cannot assist with the interview process or advocate for applicants with consular officials. Contact restaurant@maritz.com or +1 864-699-6435 if you have any questions.
Visa Integrity Fee Support Documentation *NEW*
In response to the new fee, we understand that some applicants may wish to have additional documentation confirming their participation. Upon request, the Show can provide an Official Letter of Attendance verifying your registration and participation.
While this letter is not required for visa approval and the refund process is still being finalized, it may serve as useful supporting documentation for your application or future reimbursement requests.
Resources & Links of Interest
Hotels & Travel
Getting Around Chicago (Local Travel & Parking)
I-94 Arrival/Departure Form Information*
Currency Exchange & Travel Cost Tools*
Chicago Visitor Information*
*The National Restaurant Association Show does not officially endorse these sites and cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information provided.
Visa Resources
U.S. Visa Policy and Procedures*
Visa Wait Times by U.S. Embassy or Consulate*
Step-by-Step Guide for Obtaining a U.S. Visa*
Fees for Visa Services*
Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Countries List*
*The National Restaurant Association Show does not officially endorse these sites and cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information provided.
International Reception
Your foodservice world gets bigger at the International Reception. You’ll enjoy meeting other global attendees in a relaxed setting where you can build connections while sharing ideas and inspiration for operational success.
Attendance is complimentary for international attendees.
- Location: Vista Ballroom (Room S406) at McCormick Place
- Date/Time: Saturday, May 16, 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
2026 International Delegations
Delegation programs make it easy to attend the Show as part of an organized group — helping you maximize your time in Chicago and make meaningful global connections. The Show has partnered with trade and industry organizations such as the U.S. Department of Commerce (USCS), National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA/FAS).
When you join a delegation, you’ll enjoy perks like complimentary passes, VIP access to select events, and dedicated support from industry experts. Ready to get started? Complete the following form to capture your interest and get in touch!
Complete the form below or contact Andres Tovar andres.tovar@mdg.agency to be notified when we launch our 2026 delegation program.
International Trade Center
The International Trade Center (ITC) is your home base during the Show — a comfortable lounge offering complimentary beverages, interpretation assistance, private meeting rooms and onsite support for global attendees. Stop by during Show hours to relax, network or meet with exhibitors in a welcoming environment designed exclusively for our international guests.
A list of languages available through interpretation will be shared soon!
Onsite Interpretation
Please complete this form to reserve interpreting services during the National Restaurant Association Show 2026. Based on the information received, we will provide a quote, along with the required steps to complete your reservation. For further information or if you need ASL interpreting services, contact Sarah Rowan at Sarah@SaludTranslations.com or WhatsApp +1 360-383-7002.
Craig Milliken-Smith
Director of Food and Beverage
Grey Eagle Resort and Casino
The presence of some of the brands here is unprecedented. We don’t see this kind of showing in Canada. I’m used to looking in catalogs or online, but it’s all here to touch and feel.
