Can I Transit in the US from South Africa?
Many travelers from South Africa may wonder if they can transit through the United States on their way to their final destination. The answer is yes, but there are certain requirements and procedures that must be followed in order to do so.
Overview of Transit Requirements
Transit passengers must meet certain requirements in order to be allowed to enter the United States, even if only for a short time. These requirements may vary depending on the traveler’s nationality, the purpose of their trip, and the duration of their stay. In general, transit passengers must have a valid passport and a confirmed onward ticket to their final destination. They must also comply with any additional requirements set by the airline or the US government.
Transit Without a Visa (TWOV) Program
The Transit Without a Visa (TWOV) program allows certain foreign nationals to transit through the United States without a visa, as long as they meet certain conditions. The TWOV program is available to travelers who are citizens of countries that participate in the program, and who are traveling to a third country. TWOV passengers must remain in the airport’s transit area, and cannot leave the airport during their layover.
Qualifying for TWOV Program
To qualify for the TWOV program, travelers must have a valid passport, a confirmed onward ticket to a third country, and a visa or other documentation for entry into the third country. They must also have no criminal record, and must not pose a threat to US national security or public safety. Additionally, travelers must arrive and depart from the same airport, and must not have a layover of more than 8 hours.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Transit
Travelers from certain countries may be eligible to transit through the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The VWP allows citizens of participating countries to enter the United States for up to 90 days without a visa, as long as they meet certain requirements. VWP travelers must also have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country, and must comply with all other requirements of the program.
Applying for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)
To travel to the United States under the VWP, travelers must obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to their departure. The ESTA is an online system that allows travelers to apply for authorization to travel to the United States under the VWP. Applicants must provide personal and travel information, and must pay a fee. Once approved, the ESTA is valid for two years, or until the traveler’s passport expires.
Transit with a US Visa
Travelers who hold a valid US visa may be allowed to transit through the United States, depending on the type of visa they hold and the purpose of their trip. In general, travelers with a valid US visa must have a confirmed onward ticket to their final destination, and must comply with any additional requirements set by the airline or the US government.
Types of US Visas for Transit
There are several types of US visas that may be used for transit purposes, depending on the traveler’s nationality and the purpose of their trip. These include B-1 and B-2 visas for business and tourism, C-1 visas for transit, and D visas for crew members.
Transit Procedures at US Airports
Transit passengers must follow certain procedures when transiting through US airports. These procedures may include undergoing Customs and Border Protection (CBP) inspection, rechecking luggage, and passing through security screenings. Travelers should be prepared to show their passport, visa, and other travel documents, and should allow sufficient time for these procedures.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Inspection
All travelers entering the United States, including transit passengers, are subject to CBP inspection. CBP officers will check travelers’ passports, visas, and other travel documents, and may ask questions about their trip. Travelers should be prepared to answer these questions truthfully and accurately.
Transit Accommodation and Facilities
US airports offer a variety of accommodations and facilities for transit passengers, including lounges, restaurants, and duty-free shops. Many airports also offer transit hotels and shower facilities for travelers with longer layovers. Travelers should check with their airline or the airport for information on available facilities and services.
Direct Transit vs. Connecting Flights
Transit passengers may have the option of taking a direct flight to their final destination, or connecting through a US airport. Direct transit allows passengers to stay on the same plane, without having to go through additional security or immigration procedures. Connecting flights, on the other hand, may require passengers to go through immigration, claim their luggage, and recheck it for their onward flight. Travelers should consider these factors when choosing their flights and layover times.
