Do You Need a Sponsor for the ABTC Application?

Yes—U.S. applicants must provide a business sponsor when applying for the APEC Business Travel Card.

This sponsor helps verify that you are a legitimate business traveler with ongoing commercial interests in the APEC region.

What Is a Sponsor?

A sponsor is usually:

• Your employer, or
• A business associate who can confirm your business travel needs

The sponsor must be able to verify:

• Your current job role or business involvement
• That you travel regularly to APEC member economies for work purposes
• That your travel is for commercial or trade-related activities

What Does the Sponsor Provide?

You’ll be asked to include:

• Your sponsor’s name, title, and contact information
• The name of the company or organization they represent
• A brief explanation or documentation of your business role and travel purpose

🔐 U.S. Customs and Border Protection may contact your sponsor during the review process to confirm your business relationship and travel history.

For a Smooth Application

Make sure your sponsor:

• Is aware of your application
• Is prepared to respond if contacted by CBP
• Can clearly explain the purpose of your business travel

Having a legitimate and clearly documented sponsor strengthens your application and helps demonstrate that your travel supports trade and economic activities in the Asia-Pacific region.