Upvote:0
It is a grayish area that will depend on the interpretation of the Customs and Border Patrol Agent you meet.
One way you could be definite would be to apply for a visa and explain specifically to the consular officer. If approved you know you are kosher. It is a risk however because a visa refusal will all but mean you can never use VWP again.
Upvote:0
As long as you are not getting paid and no one else is earning revenue because of your work, you will be fine.
Upvote:0
At conferences, many times the volunteers aren’t paid monetarily but are given conference registration waivers or hotel rooms that the organizers receive as kickbacks from the hotel itself. This, there’s no need for the volunteers to provide W9s or otherwise declare that they’ve worked.
The exact legality of this (especially tax wise) is uncertain but its common enough practice. In any case, you aren’t taking a “job” away from any American.
Upvote:2
This is allowed in WB status. In other words, apply for entry under the VWP, and in the passport kiosk, select Business as the purpose of your trip.
Bring any and all documentation (preferably legalised invitation letters) helping describe the exact nature of your activities, and present it if asked.