International Visitor Program

The International Visitor Program (IVP) advances international understanding by connecting Greater Seattle community members with leaders from around the world through professional and youth exchange programs. The person-to-person meetings arranged by IVP allow people to see their shared values and powerfully diminish the boundaries of language, culture, and nation.  IVP brings leaders from around the world together to exchange, discuss and help build the foundation for addressing global issues.

IVP Exchange Programs

  • The International Visitor Leadership Program: The majority of visitors IVP hosts each year come to Seattle as a part of the United States Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). IVLP arranges programs for current or emerging leaders in government, politics, the media, education, the arts, business and other key fields in tandem with U.S. Foreign Policy goals. It has brought visiting leaders to the U.S. for over 60 years.  Alumni include over 300 current and former heads of state.  IVP is a member of the National Council of International Visitors and one of 91 councils nationwide who host visitors.
  • Global Youth Leadership Programs:  IVP hosts youth from around the globe for leadership programs that include home stays, mentoring, school visits, and intensive project work on topics such as grassroots democracy, ethnic tolerance, youth leadership, social entrepreneurship, international understanding through art, political leadership, and volunteerism.  The program also sends youth from the Seattle community on reverse exchanges to countries around the world.
  • Other Professional Programs:  IVP arranges short-term professional exchange programs upon request for NGO’s, governments, and businesses.  If you would like to inquire about IVP’s full-range of exchange services, contact the Kristen Comer, Director, International Visitor Program.

Are you interested in meeting international visitors?  Check our calendar for upcoming IVP networking receptions, become a professional host, dinner host or home stay “family,” or check out the Council’s volunteer and internship programs.

For more information about the International Visitor Program, please contact Kristen Comer, Director, International Visitor Program, by email or call (206) 441-5910.