Updated 9 May 2013

Conference Registration Desk - Opening Hours 
Wednesday 12 June:  07:45-20:00
Thursday 13 June:  07:00-19:30
Friday 14 June: 07:00-19:30
Saturday 15 June: 08:30-13:30

Important Dates:
Abstract Submission Deadline: 18 January 2013
Notification of Abstract Acceptance: 13 March 2013
Deadline for Early Registration: 21 March 2013

Conference Language
The conference language will be English.

Modification of the Conference Programme
The conference organisers reserve the right to modify the programme.

Currency

The currency of Portugal is the Euro.

Conference Registration
Delegates' registration includes:

  • Admission to the Scientific Programme
  • Admission to the Exhibition and Poster Areas
  • Conference materials including the Conference Programme and Abstract Book.
  • Certificate of Attendance

Certificate of Attendance
A Certificate of Attendance for registered delegates will only be available in the designated areas in the conference centre. They cannot be issued after the conference.

Visa Requirements for Portugal
It is the sole responsibility of the attendee to take care of his/her visa requirements. Attendees who require an entry visa must allow sufficient time for the application procedure. Attendees should contact the nearest embassy or consulate to determine the appropriate timing of their visa applications.
The organisers will not directly contact embassies and consulates on behalf of visa applicants.

In the event that a Visa application is unsuccessful, but was applied for in due time, the registration fee, minus a handling fee of 30 Euro can be refunded. To receive the refund, the official proof from the Embassy confirming that a visa could not be granted, must be sent to the ECFS Registration Department no later than 30 days (15 July 2013) after the conference.

Letter of Invitation
Individuals requiring an official Letter of Invitation can request one during the online registration process or from the ECFS Registration Department (ecfs2013@kit-group.org). To receive a Letter of Invitation, attendees must first register to the conference and submit payment in full. Letters of Invitation will not be sent after the standard registration deadline - 22 May 2013.
The Letter of Invitation does not financially obligate the conference organisers in any way. All expenses incurred in relation to the conference are the sole responsibility of the attendee.

Personal Insurance
The organisers do not accept responsibility for individual medical, travel or personal insurance. All participants are strongly advised to secure their own personal insurance before travelling to the conference.

Paying and Tipping
Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, shops and restaurants. However, it is also recommended that visitors carry small amounts of cash at all times. Traveller’s cheques and currency can be exchanged at hotels or at a bank.
Prices in hotels and restaurants as well as the price of taxi fares are calculated to include taxes and service, but a tip of 5 to 10% for good service is appreciated.

Banking Facilities
Banks are open Monday to Friday from 8:30 to 15:00. Automatic cash machines linked to international networks are identified by the symbol MB (Multibanco). They are also widely available.

Mobile Phones, Photography and Filming
In consideration for all conference participants, mobile phones are to be turned off in all session rooms.  Out of respect for speakers' copyright, it is forbidden to take pictures and/or to film during any session.

Internet Access and Internet Café
Wireless LAN will be available for registered participants free of charge at the Lisbon Congress Centre.  There is no need for a password.  There will also be an Internet Café available to participants in the Exhibition area.

Electricity
Portugal uses the European type 2 pin sockets with 220 volts AC at 50 cycles.

Climate
Lisbon has a Mediterranean climate which is strongly influenced by the Gulf Stream, giving it one of the mildest climates in Europe. Summer lasts until the end of September and the weather during this period is therefore pleasantly warm. Average temperatures in June: 16 to 26°C (61 – 79°F). Light clothing is suitable with somewhat warmer clothing for the evening.