What To Know
- When you arrive at SAN from an international destination, you will need to proceed to the customs area.
- If you have any items subject to duty, you will need to pay the applicable fees at the customs counter.
- Members can use dedicated kiosks at customs to scan their passport and fingerprints, eliminating the need for a face-to-face interview with a CBP officer.
Yes, San Diego International Airport (SAN) has a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility where international travelers are required to go through customs upon arrival in the United States.
What to Expect at Customs
When you arrive at SAN from an international destination, you will need to proceed to the customs area. Here’s what to expect:
- Collect your belongings: Retrieve your checked baggage from the baggage claim area.
- Declare items: As you enter the customs area, you will need to fill out a CBP declaration form. This form asks about any goods you are bringing into the country, including items purchased abroad, gifts, and currency.
- Present your passport and declaration form: Proceed to a CBP officer and present your passport and completed declaration form.
- Inspection: The CBP officer may ask you questions about your trip and inspect your belongings. This may include scanning your bags through an X-ray machine or physically searching them.
- Pay duties: If you have any items subject to duty, you will need to pay the applicable fees at the customs counter.
- Proceed to the exit: Once your inspection is complete, you can proceed to the exit and collect your baggage.
Tips for a Smooth Customs Experience
- Arrive early: Allow ample time for customs processing, especially during peak travel times.
- Be prepared: Gather all necessary documents, including your passport, visa (if required), and declaration form.
- Declare everything: Accurately declare all items you are bringing into the country, even if you don’t think they are subject to duty.
- Be respectful: Cooperate with CBP officers and answer their questions honestly.
- Know your rights: You have the right to a fair and impartial inspection. If you feel that your rights have been violated, you can request to speak to a supervisor.
Special Considerations
- Citizenship: U.S. citizens and permanent residents follow a simplified customs process.
- Visas: Travelers from certain countries may require a visa to enter the United States. Check the U.S. Department of State website for visa requirements.
- Prohibited items: Certain items are prohibited from being brought into the United States, such as illegal drugs, weapons, and counterfeit goods.
- Agricultural products: You must declare all agricultural products, such as fruits, vegetables, and plants. Failure to declare these items can result in fines or penalties.
Customs Hours and Contact Information
The San Diego International Airport CBP facility is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For inquiries or assistance, you can contact CBP at:
- Phone: (619) 692-4664
- Email: sandiego@cbp.dhs.gov
Alternatives to Customs Clearance
In some cases, you may be able to avoid going through customs at SAN by using the Global Entry program. Global Entry is a trusted traveler program that allows pre-approved travelers to expedite their entry into the United States. Members can use dedicated kiosks at customs to scan their passport and fingerprints, eliminating the need for a face-to-face interview with a CBP officer.
Summary: Navigating Customs with Confidence
Going through customs at San Diego Airport can be a straightforward process if you are prepared and aware of the procedures. By following the tips and information provided in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and efficient customs experience.
Information You Need to Know
Q: How long does it take to go through customs at SAN?
A: Customs processing times can vary depending on the volume of travelers and the complexity of inspections. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Q: Can I bring food into the United States?
A: Yes, you can bring most food items into the United States, but you must declare them on your customs declaration form. Some restrictions apply to certain food products, such as meat, dairy, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Q: What happens if I have items to declare?
A: If you have items to declare, you will need to pay any applicable duties or taxes at the customs counter. The CBP officer will provide you with instructions on how to do this.
Q: Can I bring alcohol into the United States?
A: Yes, you can bring up to 1 liter of alcohol into the United States duty-free. However, you must be 21 years of age or older to import alcohol.
Q: What happens if I have a question about customs?
A: You can contact the San Diego International Airport CBP facility at (619) 692-4664 or email sandiego@cbp.dhs.gov for assistance.
