Hartford Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Hartford, the capital city of Connecticut, is located in the northeastern United States. As a domestic destination within the US, entry requirements depend entirely on whether you are a US citizen, permanent resident, or international visitor. Hartford is served by Bradley International Airport (BDL), located approximately 15 miles north of the city in Windsor Locks, Connecticut. International travelers arriving in Hartford must comply with all US federal immigration and customs regulations. For US citizens and permanent residents, traveling to Hartford requires only standard domestic identification. International visitors must meet United States entry requirements, which vary based on nationality and purpose of visit. The US operates the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for citizens of 40 countries, allowing short-term tourism or business visits without a traditional visa, though Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval is required. All other international visitors must obtain the appropriate US visa before traveling. The immigration process for international arrivals occurs at the first point of entry into the United States. If Hartford/Bradley International Airport is your first US destination on an international flight, you will clear US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) there. It's essential to have all required documentation ready, including your passport, visa or ESTA approval, return tickets, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay. Processing times can vary, so allow adequate time for connections or onward travel.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Entry to Hartford follows US federal immigration policy. Visa requirements depend on your nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay. The United States offers several pathways for temporary entry.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP) with ESTA

Up to 90 days (no extensions permitted)

Citizens of 40 participating countries can visit for tourism or business without obtaining a traditional visa

Includes

Andorra Australia Austria Belgium Brunei Chile Croatia Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Japan Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Monaco Netherlands New Zealand Norway Poland Portugal San Marino Singapore Slovakia Slovenia South Korea Spain Sweden Switzerland Taiwan United Kingdom

How to Apply: Apply online at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov at least 72 hours before departure. Approval is typically instant but can take up to 72 hours. ESTA is valid for 2 years or until passport expires.
Cost: USD $21 per application

Travelers must have an e-passport (biometric passport). ESTA does not guarantee entry; final decision is made by CBP officer at port of entry. VWP travelers cannot change status or extend stay while in the US.

Canadian Citizens

Up to 6 months for tourism; varies for business

Special provisions apply to Canadian citizens under USMCA/NAFTA agreements

Includes

Canada

How to Apply: Generally no visa or ESTA required for Canadian citizens entering by air, land, or sea for tourism or certain business activities
Cost: No fee for tourist entry

Valid passport required. Canadian permanent residents who are not Canadian citizens must follow visa requirements for their country of citizenship.

Visa Required - B-1/B-2 Tourist/Business Visa

Typically granted for up to 6 months per entry; visa itself may be valid for multiple entries over 1-10 years

Citizens of countries not in the Visa Waiver Program must obtain a visa before traveling

How to Apply: Apply at US Embassy or Consulate in your country. Process includes: completing DS-160 form online, paying fee, scheduling interview, attending interview with required documents. Processing time varies by location (typically 2-8 weeks).
Cost: USD $185 application fee (non-refundable)

Major countries requiring visas include: China, India, Russia, most African nations, most Middle Eastern countries, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, and many others. Check travel.state.gov for country-specific requirements.

US Citizens and Permanent Residents

Unlimited

Domestic travel within the United States

How to Apply: No visa or immigration clearance required. Valid government-issued photo ID recommended for air travel (required for ages 18+). REAL ID compliant identification required for domestic flights starting May 7, 2025.

US passport, passport card, state driver's license, or state ID card accepted. Green card holders should carry their permanent resident card.

Arrival Process

International travelers arriving at Bradley International Airport (or any US port of entry) will go through US Customs and Border Protection processing. The process involves immigration inspection, baggage claim, and customs declaration. Allow at least 60-90 minutes for this process, longer during peak travel times.

Arrival and Disembarkation

Follow signs for 'Arrivals' or 'Immigration' after leaving the aircraft. Keep your passport, completed customs declaration form, and any required documentation easily accessible.

Immigration/Passport Control

Present your passport, visa/ESTA, and completed customs form to the CBP officer. Biometric data (photograph and fingerprints) will be collected for most visitors. Officers may ask questions about your trip purpose, duration, and accommodations.

Baggage Claim

After clearing immigration, proceed to baggage claim to collect your checked luggage. Carts are typically available for a small fee ($5-6).

Customs Declaration

Proceed to customs inspection area. You may be directed to a specific line based on your declaration. Some travelers may be selected for secondary inspection or baggage search. Answer all questions truthfully.

Exit to Public Area

After clearing customs, you'll exit to the public arrivals area where you can access ground transportation, car rentals, or be met by greeters.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay (some countries have exceptions under the Six-Month Club). Machine-readable passport required; e-passport required for VWP travelers.

Visa or ESTA Approval

Depending on nationality: approved ESTA (print confirmation), valid US visa in passport, or Canadian citizenship proof. Keep confirmation numbers accessible.

Customs Declaration Form (CBP Form 6059B)

Usually distributed on the flight or available at the airport. One form per family. Declare all items being brought into the US, including food, currency over $10,000, and goods acquired abroad.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of intent to depart the US (airline ticket, cruise booking, etc.). Required for VWP travelers and recommended for all visitors.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence you can support yourself during your stay (bank statements, credit cards, cash, sponsorship letter). May be requested but not always checked.

Accommodation Details

Address where you'll be staying in the US (hotel reservation, host's address). Required information on customs form.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and readily accessible before approaching immigration. Keep them in a travel document holder rather than buried in luggage.

Answer questions directly and honestly. Provide clear, concise responses without volunteering excessive information.

Ensure your ESTA or visa is approved well before your travel date. Do not book non-refundable flights until you have travel authorization.

Declare all required items on your customs form. Penalties for false declarations can include fines, seizure of goods, and future entry restrictions.

Keep valuable items, medications, and essential documents in carry-on luggage in case checked bags are delayed.

Be patient and polite with CBP officers. They have broad authority to question travelers and inspect belongings.

If you don't speak English well, you can request an interpreter at no charge.

Take note of the admission stamp or electronic I-94 record, which shows how long you're authorized to stay. Check your I-94 at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov.

Customs & Duty-Free

US Customs regulations apply to all goods brought into the country. All travelers must declare items acquired abroad, agricultural products, and currency exceeding $10,000. Duty-free allowances vary based on where you're arriving from and your residency status.

Alcohol

1 liter of alcoholic beverages duty-free for personal use

Must be 21 years or older. State laws may impose additional restrictions. Additional quantities subject to duty and federal tax. Some states allow more generous allowances.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes (1 carton) OR 100 cigars (non-Cuban) OR 2 kg (4.4 lbs) of smoking tobacco

Must be 18 years or older (21 in some states). Cuban cigars are permitted for personal use. Additional quantities subject to duty.

Currency

No limit on amount, but must declare if carrying $10,000 USD or more (or foreign equivalent)

Includes cash, traveler's checks, money orders, and other monetary instruments. Declaration is informational, not a restriction. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties.

Gifts and Personal Goods

$800 per person duty-free exemption for goods acquired abroad (for US residents and most travelers)

Applies to goods for personal use or gifts. Family members can combine exemptions. Exemption is $200 for US Virgin Islands/Guam travelers. Goods over exemption amount subject to duty (typically 3% flat rate on next $1,000).

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - Federal offense with severe penalties including arrest and prosecution
Certain fruits, vegetables, plants, and plant products - May carry pests or diseases. Most fresh produce prohibited without permits
Meat and poultry products from most countries - Risk of disease transmission. Heavy restrictions apply
Counterfeit goods - Items violating intellectual property rights, including fake designer items
Absinthe with thujone - Unless thujone-free
Certain endangered species products - Items made from protected animals (ivory, sea turtle shell, etc.) under CITES regulations
Switchblade knives and other prohibited weapons - Varies by state but federally restricted
Soil - Generally prohibited due to pest risk
Haitian animal hide drums - Specific prohibition due to anthrax risk

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - Bring only what's needed for your trip in original containers with labels. Carry a doctor's letter for controlled substances
Firearms and ammunition - Require advance declaration and permits. Must be declared to airline and transported according to regulations
Cultural artifacts and antiquities - May require export permits from country of origin
Certain food items - Bakery goods, cured cheeses, and some processed foods generally allowed; check APHIS website for specifics
Alcoholic beverages over duty-free limit - Subject to federal tax and duty; some states prohibit importation
Pets and animals - Require health certificates, vaccinations, and advance permits (see special situations)
Biological specimens - Require CDC and/or USDA permits

Health Requirements

The United States has specific health requirements for entry. As of 2024, most COVID-19 related travel restrictions have been lifted, but requirements can be reinstated. Always check current requirements before travel.

Required Vaccinations

COVID-19 vaccination - Requirements vary and change frequently. As of late 2024, most COVID-19 entry requirements have been suspended, but check current status at cdc.gov/travel
Yellow Fever - Required only if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries. Proof of vaccination (yellow card) must be presented

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - Ensure you're up to date on routine vaccines (MMR, DPT, polio, etc.)
Influenza - Recommended during flu season (October-March)
Hepatitis A and B - Recommended for most travelers
COVID-19 - Recommended to be up to date with vaccines regardless of entry requirements

Health Insurance

Health insurance is not required for entry but is STRONGLY recommended. The United States has very expensive healthcare, and medical emergencies can result in bills of tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. Visitors should obtain comprehensive travel health insurance that covers medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. US Medicare does not cover foreign visitors, and many foreign health plans have limited or no coverage in the US.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly, especially regarding COVID-19 and emerging infectious diseases. Check the CDC website (wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel) and the US Department of State website (travel.state.gov) 2-3 weeks before departure and again 72 hours before travel for the latest requirements. Some airlines may have additional health requirements. Connecticut may have state-specific health recommendations, though generally follows federal guidelines.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

US Customs and Border Protection

Official CBP website: cbp.gov - For customs regulations and entry requirements

CBP Information Center: 1-877-227-5511 (toll-free from US/Canada)

US Department of State - Visa Information

Official visa information: travel.state.gov - For visa applications and requirements

Contact your nearest US Embassy or Consulate for visa applications

ESTA Application System

Official ESTA website: esta.cbp.dhs.gov - For Visa Waiver Program travelers

Beware of third-party websites charging excessive fees. The official fee is $21

Emergency Services (Hartford/Connecticut)

911 - Police, Fire, Medical Emergency

Free call from any phone, including mobile phones without service

Bradley International Airport

Airport information: bradleyairport.com - Phone: +1-860-292-2000

Located in Windsor Locks, CT, approximately 15 miles north of Hartford

Your Country's Embassy/Consulate

Locate your country's diplomatic mission in the US

Most embassies are in Washington, DC. Some countries have consulates in Boston or New York (nearest major cities to Hartford)

CDC Travel Health Information

Health requirements and recommendations: wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

CDC Traveler's Health: 1-800-232-4636

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children (under 18)

Children, including infants, must have their own passport and visa/ESTA if required by nationality. Children traveling with both parents generally need only standard documentation. Children traveling with one parent should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) authorizing the trip. Children traveling alone or with non-parents (relatives, friends, school groups) should have notarized consent letters from both parents/legal guardians, including contact information. CBP may question children and accompanying adults to prevent child abduction. Carry birth certificates or custody documents if applicable.

Traveling with Pets

Dogs: Must be healthy on arrival. Puppies under 6 months old require a valid rabies vaccination certificate (if from high-risk rabies countries). CDC Dog Import regulations updated in 2024 - check current requirements at cdc.gov/importation/dogs. Cats: No federal requirements, but must appear healthy. May need rabies certificate for some states including Connecticut. Birds: Require import permits and quarantine. Contact USDA-APHIS. Other animals: Specific requirements vary. Contact CDC and USDA well in advance. Service animals have specific documentation requirements under ADA. Emotional support animals are no longer recognized for air travel as of 2021.

Extended Stays or Status Changes

Tourist visas (B-2) and VWP allow only temporary visits. VWP visitors cannot extend stay or change status - must leave before 90 days expire. B-2 visa holders may apply to extend stay by filing Form I-539 with USCIS before current authorization expires (extension not guaranteed). For longer stays, consider: F-1 student visa (requires enrollment in approved school), J-1 exchange visitor visa (for approved programs), H-1B work visa (requires employer sponsorship), or other appropriate visa categories. Overstaying your authorized period can result in bars to future US entry (3-year bar for 180+ days overstay, 10-year bar for 1+ year overstay). Consult an immigration attorney for complex situations.

Business Travelers

B-1 visa or VWP can be used for business activities including: meetings, conferences, consultations, contract negotiations. Cannot be employed by a US company or receive US-source salary. For work requiring employment authorization, need appropriate work visa (H-1B, L-1, E-2, etc.). Bring supporting documents: letter from employer, invitation from US business, conference registration. Be clear about business vs. tourist purpose when speaking with CBP.

Students

Tourists cannot study on B-2 visa or VWP except for recreational/short courses. For academic study, need F-1 visa (academic) or M-1 visa (vocational). Requires acceptance to SEVP-approved school, proof of financial support, and intent to return home after studies. J-1 visa for exchange programs. Apply for student visa well in advance of program start date.

Previous Immigration Violations or Criminal History

Previous overstays, visa violations, or deportations can affect eligibility for entry. Criminal history, even minor offenses, may require a waiver. DUI convictions can be grounds for inadmissibility. Certain crimes (drug trafficking, crimes of moral turpitude) may permanently bar entry. If you have any immigration violations or criminal history, consult with an immigration attorney before applying for visa or ESTA. Lying on applications or to CBP officers can result in permanent ban.

Dual Citizens

If you hold US citizenship and another nationality, you must enter and exit the US using your US passport, even if traveling on another passport. Dual nationals of VWP countries and Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, or Yemen may not be eligible for ESTA and should apply for a visa. Always disclose all citizenships when applying for travel authorization.