Exchange Programs

Participants of IVLP programs meet with the Embassy officials before they travel to the U.S.

An important segment of the exchange activities run by the U.S. Department of State is the International Visitor Leadership Program which enables Czech professionals to develop in-depth knowledge of the United States and to establish contacts with their counterparts in the U.S.

The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program. Through short-term visits to the United States, current and emerging foreign leaders in a variety of fields experience this country firsthand and cultivate lasting relationships with their American counterparts. Professional meetings reflect the participants’ professional interests and support the foreign policy goals of the United States.

Launched in 1940, the IVLP helps strengthen U.S. engagement with countries around the world and cultivate lasting relationships by connecting current and emerging foreign leaders with their American counterparts through short-term visits to the United States. The majority of IVLP exchanges include visits to four U.S. communities over three weeks, although projects vary based on themes, Embassy requests and other factors. Participants meet with professional counterparts, visit U.S. public and private sector organizations related to the project theme and participate in cultural and social activities.

There is no application for IVLP. Participants are nominated and selected annually by the staff at U.S. Embassies around the world. For those who live in the United States, there are many opportunities to get involved at the community level. Visit the website of the National Council for International Visitors (NCIV) for a list of community organizations in 44 states and information about local activities.