International Visitors

Road to IMTS 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide for International Visitors

Whether you're traveling across the border or across the globe, getting to IMTS is an adventure worth every step. Here's everything you need to get there, and we'll walk you through it together.

Step 1: Register for IMTS – It's Free

International visitor registration is complimentary, so there's no reason to wait. Once you're registered, you'll get access to the Show Planner, where you can browse exhibitors, bookmark must-see booths, explore digital showrooms, and even receive personalized recommendations based on your interests. With 2,000+ exhibiting companies from 29 countries, a little planning goes a long way.

Step 2: Book Your Hotel Through Global Housing Solutions

Chicago is an amazing city, and you'll want a great place to stay. The only official housing provider for IMTS 2026 is Global Housing Solutions, powered by AMT. They've done the hard work for you, contracting wiht 95 Chicago-area hotels so you have plenty of options. Here's why booking through Global Housing Solutions is the smart move:

·    Guaranteed rooms at the lowest available rates during show dates

·    No booking fees and no deposit due at the time of booking

·    Free shuttle service between most participating hotels and McCormick Place

·    24/7 support during show week if anything comes up

Visit the Hotel Information page to browse options, view rates, and see a map of all available hotels.

Step 3: Start Your U.S. Visa Application

We're so excited for you to join us, and we want to make sure nothing stands in the way of your trip! If you need a U.S. visitor visa, please start this process as early as possible. Interview appointments and processing times are taking longer than usual at many U.S. embassies and consulates around the world, and it could take up to three to four months to receive your visa. Full details on the application process are available on the U.S. Department of State Visitor Visa website.