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International Visitors

International Visitors
The world is coming to Oregon.

Since 1950, the International Visitor Program has fostered meaningful connections between Oregonians and visitors from around the world. The World Affairs Council of Oregon annually hosts more than 600 young, emerging, and established leaders from over 120 countries through government programs. The International Visitor Program enables cross-cultural conversations and facilitates professional knowledge exchange between Oregon communities and the world. 

We believe that through citizen diplomacy, individuals can help shape foreign relations ‘one handshake at a time’. By opening their homes, offices, and schools to visitors participating in exchange programs, citizen diplomats foster international understanding and cooperation, constructive economic connections, and peaceful interaction among cultures.

Professional connections 
Portland has become a magnet for visitors looking at issues from sustainability and environmental policy to progressive governance practices and civic innovation. We connect each visitor with relevant businesses, organizations, and community leaders throughout Oregon. Learn more about professional hosting.

Gather around the table 
Hosting gives community members the opportunity to meet international visitors and demonstrate citizen diplomacy at its very best. Nothing sets the table for mutual understanding better than sharing a meal with visitors. Learn more about dinner hosting

An American home experience 
Build lifelong connections by opening your doors to an international visitor for an American home experience. A selection of the International Visitor Programs offers the opportunity to host visitors from three nights to five weeks. Learn more about overnight hosting.

 


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