Do I need to go through immigration for a connecting flight in San Francisco?

Navigating Connections in San Francisco: Do I Need to Go Through Immigration?

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a major hub for international travel, and many passengers transit through on their way to other destinations. This begs the question: if you’re arriving internationally and connecting to another flight, do you need to go through immigration in San Francisco?

In most cases, the answer is yes. Even if you’re not planning to leave the airport, connecting from an international arrival at SFO typically requires you to clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This process takes place within the Federal Inspection Area and involves presenting your passport, visa (if required), and completing any necessary customs declarations. Essentially, you’re entering the United States, even if temporarily, before continuing to your connecting flight.

This procedure is standard for the vast majority of international arrivals. After clearing immigration and customs, you’ll retrieve your checked baggage, re-check it for your connecting flight, and proceed through security to your departure gate. This can be a time-consuming process, so it’s crucial to factor in ample connection time, especially during peak travel periods.

However, there’s an important exception: pre-cleared flights. Some airlines and routes participate in the CBP Preclearance program. This allows passengers to complete immigration and customs formalities at their departure airport, before even boarding their flight to the U.S. If your flight is pre-cleared, you’ll arrive in San Francisco as a domestic passenger, bypassing the need to go through immigration and customs upon arrival. You can then proceed directly to your connecting flight, just as you would with any domestic transfer.

To determine if your flight is pre-cleared, check your airline’s website or contact their customer service. Your boarding pass may also indicate pre-clearance status. Don’t assume you’re pre-cleared just because you have a connecting flight; confirm it specifically.

Failing to account for immigration and customs procedures can lead to missed connections and significant travel disruptions. Planning ahead and understanding the requirements for your specific flight are crucial for a smooth transit through San Francisco International Airport.