Last Updated on 2023-06-25
This section provides an overview of necessary information including transit information and immigration guidelines upon arrival in the United States.
Transit in a Third Country
Unless you have an overnight layover, your checked baggage is usually checked through to the first airport of entry in the United States or Canada, and you will not need to claim it during transit. The immigration process will vary depending on the airport, but generally, you will follow airport instructions and proceed to the designated boarding gate for your next flight. However, if the transit airport has preclearance facilities for the United States (primarily in Canada), you will need to claim your checked baggage and go through immigration and customs procedures there.
Travel regulations in different countries can change at any time. For example, Taiwanese travelers visiting or transiting through Canada under the visa waiver program are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online. Additionally, during times of pandemic, it is essential to confirm if the country allows Taiwanese travelers to transit and if there are any additional quarantine requirements before departure. You can find relevant information on the websites of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the official websites of the respective countries. Some airports may have additional procedures to follow (such as health screenings and travel records). Simply follow the instructions and procedures provided.
Arrival in the United States and Transit
Upon arriving at the first destination in the United States, you will need to go through the immigration process before boarding a domestic flight. Each step can potentially cause delays, so it is important to allow a minimum of 3-4 hours for transit if your connecting time is limited. The following steps outline the process:
A. Complete the Declaration Form
Before arrival in the United States, flight attendants will distribute Customs Declaration forms on the plane. Fill out the form honestly. If you are carrying any food items, remember to check the corresponding box on the form. If you are carrying more than $10,000 or its equivalent in cash, you will need to fill out the FinCEN Form 105 for currency reporting. To ensure smooth customs clearance and travel safety, it is recommended to avoid carrying cash exceeding this amount and use wire transfers instead. For more details, refer to the section on international wire transfers.
B. Interview with an Immigration Officer
Have your passport, I-20/DS-2019, and completed customs declaration form ready for inspection. You may also prepare additional supporting documents, such as an Offer Letter, as needed. U.S. citizens must use a U.S. passport for entry, while others must use the appropriate U.S. visa that they have obtained. It is important not to use the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) or any other visa that does not match the purpose of your current travel. Immigration officers typically ask standard questions regarding the purpose of entry, length of stay, intended school and program of study, and future place of residence. If you have declared carrying food items on the declaration form, they may inquire about the contents. Answer all questions honestly. If, unfortunately, you are selected for further inspection due to random sampling or other reasons, there is no need to panic. Follow the instructions of the immigration officer, provide the requested information, and cooperate with the inspection of your belongings.
C. Claim Checked Baggage
Follow the airport signs to locate the baggage claim area for your flight. If, unfortunately, your baggage is lost, immediately seek assistance from the airline’s ground staff. They can provide information on the time and location of your baggage’s last record. If your baggage cannot be found immediately, remember to register the lost baggage with the ground staff and obtain a receipt (also inform the person picking you up). The airline will contact you based on the registration information and arrange for the delivery of your baggage to the registered address. When claiming your checked baggage, ensure that any items purchased during your journey that cannot be carried on board as carry-on items (such as duty-free alcohol) are placed in your checked baggage before re-checking.
Airport Luggage Carts
Luggage carts at U.S. airports are not free. For example, at San Francisco Airport, the usage fee is $8.
D. Pass Through Customs
Proceed to the customs area with your customs declaration form and luggage. Customs officers may randomly inspect luggage.
E. Connect to Your Next Flight
Follow the airport signs to find the airline counter for your next flight to check in your baggage and obtain your boarding pass (if you did not receive a connecting ticket during departure). Additionally, you will need to go through security screening again and proceed to the designated boarding gate for your domestic flight.
- Domestic flights within the United States typically do not provide meals but may offer simple snacks. If you have specific dietary requirements, you can address them during your layover or purchase meals to bring on board.
- After passing through customs, if your layover is less than 12 hours or does not involve an overnight stay, your checked baggage will be through-checked to Pittsburgh. If you have any specific requests regarding your checked baggage, you can communicate with the airline.