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ESTA - entry to the USA
ESTA APPLICATION
New rules have been introduced for entry into the USA, which means that you must complete entry documents (ESTA) before you can enter the USA.
There are a number of rules for entering the USA and other countries outside the Schengen Area, and many of these regulations are enforced already at the departure airport. These rules may require additional time at passport control, obtaining a visa or travel authorization in advance, or providing personal information before departure.
REGISTRATION OF PERSONAL INFORMATION – APIS
U.S. authorities require personal information—such as passport number, accommodation address, etc.—to be submitted prior to departure. We are happy to assist with completing this information. For this, we need your passport details and the address of your first overnight stay in the USA.
USEFUL TIPS WHEN TRAVELING TO THE USA
Immigration Control
At immigration, the officer will check your passport and verify the information submitted in your ESTA application. You’ll typically be asked about the purpose of your visit.
Your fingerprints (all fingers) will be scanned using a small scanner at the counter, and a photo of you will also be taken.
Customs Control Upon Arrival
After immigration, collect your luggage at the baggage carousel and proceed to U.S. Customs, where you’ll hand over the blue customs form completed on the plane.
Avoid bringing meat, fruit, and vegetables into the USA. Even a banana or an apple can cause issues at customs, so make sure to consume any fruit on board before arrival.
After clearing customs, you’ve officially arrived in the USA and can focus on exiting the terminal and beginning your trip.
Hand Luggage Rules on the Plane
You may bring a limited amount of liquids in your hand luggage. Liquids include beverages, water, sprays, gels, perfumes, toothpaste, and similar items.
These must be stored in small containers of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) each. You may bring multiple containers, but all must fit in a transparent, resealable 1-liter plastic bag.
Medicines for personal use and baby food are allowed in the cabin and do not need to fit in the 1-liter bag. However, airport security may ask for documentation of the contents.
Prohibited Items in Hand Luggage
In addition to obvious dangerous items like weapons and knives, matches and small pocket knives are also banned in the aircraft cabin on flights to the USA. The Danish Transport Authority provides an up-to-date list of prohibited items on its website: trafikstyrelsen.dk
Tax-Free Shopping Before Departure and Return
Items purchased in the tax-free area after check-in are not subject to the liquid restrictions. The same applies to drinks bought after security control. These purchases may be brought onto the plane in your hand luggage.
However, if you have a layover in the USA, it’s a good idea to place these items in your checked baggage before your next flight, as additional security screening may apply.
For more information on hand luggage rules, visit:
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flypassager.dk
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CPH Airport – cph.dk
Double-Check Your Luggage Before Check-In
When you arrive in the departure hall at Copenhagen Airport, don’t be surprised if your passport is checked before you even reach the check-in counter. You may also be asked whether you packed your luggage yourself. These are standard U.S. security procedures.
Be Cautious with Luggage Locks
Avoid locking your checked luggage when flying to or from the USA. If U.S. customs or security needs to inspect your bag, they may force it open without asking. If you have a suitcase with a built-in TSA-approved lock (or have attached a TSA lock), these are recognized by U.S. authorities. Security and customs staff have a universal key to open TSA-approved locks without damage.
If you're unsure whether your suitcase has a TSA lock, it's safer not to lock it.
In Short: Arrive at the Airport Well in Advance When Traveling to the USA!