Connecting flights between India and the USA have layovers at operating airlines’ hub airports, but that does not mean you must be sitting inside the terminal for hours. These days, airports and airlines are jointly offering city sightseeing tours during layovers, for instance Emirates’ Dubai stopover, Turkish Airlines’ guided Istanbul tours, Etihad’s Abu Dhabi stopovers, Ethiopian Airlines’ free stopover program, and Changi Airport’s free Sentosa tours. Hong Kong International Airport is not an exception. Check out our guide on free Hong Kong layover tours for transfer passengers. 

All about Hong Kong layover tours for transit passengers

The Hong Kong Airport Free Layover Tour is a guided sightseeing program similar to Singapore Changi Airport layover tours. International transit passengers with long layovers can exit Hong Kong Airport for the tours offered by the airport authority. Interestingly, the tours include guided sightseeing, ground transportation, and group insurance. The layover tours are great opportunities to explore the vibrant landscape and dynamic culture of Hong Kong for free.

Hong Kong free layover tours: Eligibility requirements transit travelers

To join a free Hong Kong city layover tour, you must meet certain conditions. Whether you are flying from India to the US or returning from the US to India via Hong Kong, your eligibility for the tour is subject to your itinerary and a few other norms.

• You must have an international air-to-air transit at Hong Kong Airport.
• You need a minimum layover of 7 hours at HKG International Airport.
• You must register and secure a tour slot in advance or upon arrival, subject to availability.
• Your layover timing should align with one of the tour schedules.
• You must hold a valid passport, boarding pass, and tour slot confirmation.
• You must meet Hong Kong immigration entry requirements to leave the airport.

Note: The program is open to all international airlines operating via Hong Kong, including Cathay Pacific flights from USA to India or vice versa. Check out budget Indian Eagle deals to fly with Cathay Pacific or other airlines, subscribe to Indian Eagle coupons for fare discounts, or call +1-800-615-3969 (toll-free) for exclusive phone-only flight deals.

Do Indians need a visa for free Hong Kong layover tours?

Indian passport holders do not need a traditional visa to exit Hong Kong Airport for a short layover tour, but Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) is mandatory. PAR must be completed online and approved before travel. It allows visa-free entry to Hong Kong for up to 14 days. It is valid for 6 months and permits multiple entries during the validity period. Hong Kong entry requirements are the same for US visa and Green Card holders.

What’s Hong Kong entry requirement for US citizens?   

US passport holders require neither a transit visa nor pre-arrival registration (PAR) to enter Hong Kong for layover tours. Usually, US citizens are eligible for visa-free entry to Hong Kong for 90 days.

How to book Hong Kong City layover tours

• You can book one free layover tour up to 3 months in advance through the Hong Kong Airport website (hongkongairport.com)
• If you’re not able to pre-book, you may opt for walk-in registration after arriving at the airport
• Walk-in registrations are subject to same-day slot availability and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis
• Registration and assistance are available at the Free Layover Tour service counters inside the terminal
• If you register online, you must arrive at the designated meeting point at least 30 minutes before the tour schedule
• Late arrivals may lose their confirmed slot, which could be passed on to the next traveler

Hong Kong free layover tour timings and experiences

Hong Kong International Airport currently offers three half-day tours every day, each lasting about 4 hours.

• The Tranquil Island Stroll runs from 9 AM to 1 PM and takes transit passengers to Inspiration Lake and Ma Wan 1868, a charming heritage village with scenic views.

• The Heritage and Local Lifestyle Citywalk operates from 12 PM to 4 PM, covering Wong Tai Sin Temple and the lively Sham Shui Po district, offering a glimpse into everyday Hong Kong life.

• The Victoria and West Kowloon Waterfront Journey runs from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM, featuring the West Kowloon Cultural District and stunning views along Victoria Harbour and the Avenue of Stars.

The post Free Hong Kong Layover Tours for Indians and US Citizens: A Guide on Visa & Entry Requirement first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

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After 2025, a turbulent year in aviation, Air India is back on its transformation journey. Alongside the ongoing retrofitting of its existing Dreamliner fleet, the airline unveiled its first Maharaja Lounge at Indira Gandhi Airport. After a few years of large-scale renovation, the flagship lounge opened to take the world aback and silence its critics. Air India’s New Delhi airport lounge is a signature statement on contemporary luxury and Indian hospitality.  

Spread over 16,000 square feet, the lounge is spacious enough to host around 300 guests at a time. The interiors meticulously blend world-class luxury and traditional Indian designs. The lounge is divided into two distinct zones for premium guests of Air India flights: Expansive ‘Business’ section, and Exclusive ‘First Class’ section. The Business section has enhanced seating, elevated dining, and cozy workspace, whereas the First Class section offers more private facilities like sleep suites.

Location of Maharaja Lounge at Delhi Airport

Air India reopened Maharaja Lounge in the departure area of Terminal 3, New Delhi Airport. It is situated airside on the mezzanine level, after immigration and security checks, making it accessible only to international passengers cleared for boarding. It is easy to locate the lounge above the duty-free zone, following clear signage throughout Terminal 3.

Inside Air India’s Delhi Airport Maharaja Lounge: Exclusive Features

The Aviator’s Bar: The bar will offer an exclusive selection of wines and whiskies curated for the discerning traveler. Its interior draws inspiration from the historic 1932 Karachi to Bombay flight by Mr. JRD Tata, the pioneer of civil aviation in India. The ceiling is designed as the propeller of the first Puss Moth aircraft, celebrating Air India’s aviation legacy.

The Globetrotter’s Study: This is a serene cozy corner with a hand-picked collection of fiction and nonfiction titles for avid readers and working professionals. Besides, adequate power outlets and high-speed Internet connectivity make the Globetrotter’s Study an ideal place for peaceful reading or working.

Serenity Area: Air India’s Delhi Airport lounge has an enclosed area with individual recliners where guests can relax, rest, and rejuvenate before catching long-haul international flights to New York, London, Toronto, and other prime destinations. It has meditative ambience to calm the body and the mind.

Tarmac View Seating: Watching aircraft take-off and landings while sipping from a fine glass of wine or dining in an exquisite setting is a sheer luxury for frequent flyers and aviation enthusiasts. With that interest in mind, Air India got the seating and dining areas designed in the ‘First Class’ section overlooking the tarmac.

Sleep Suites: First Class guests are in for maharaja-like treatment in exclusive sleep suites with cushioned beds and ambient lights at the flagship Air India lounge at New Delhi Airport. After restorative sleep for a couple of hours, guests can wake up energized for international flights to USA from New Delhi.

Who can access new Air India lounge at Delhi Airport T3?

Starting 16 February 2026, Air India’s premium guests traveling in First Class or holding business class tickets for overseas trips can access the flagship lounge. The eligible passenger list is as below:

• Air India First Class passengers
• Air India Business Class passengers
• Maharaja Club Gold members
• Maharaja Club Platinum members
• Eligible Star Alliance First and Business Class passengers
• Star Alliance Gold members traveling internationally

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Indian Passport ranks 80th on the Henley Passport Index in 2026. It has moved up five spots higher than the ranking in 2024, enabling Indian Passport holders to visit 55 countries visa-free or with a visa on arrival in 2026. Only Iran and Bolivia have dropped from the list of countries that offer visa on arrival / visa-free entry to Indians with a valid US Visa or Green Card. Evidently, Indian Passport when backed with a valid US visa stamp or a Green Card exerts more power and influence at international levels.

Check out what countries Indians with Green Cards or US visas can visit in 2026 without applying for a visa in advance:

Visa-free Countries for Green Cardholders and US Visa holders

Singapore: 96-Hour Visa-Free Transit

Among visa-free countries for US Green Cardholders and Indians with a valid US visa, Singapore offers 96-hour visa free transit for guided city sightseeing tours. Since the Free Singapore Tour is available only for passengers of Singapore Airlines flights, many US visa holders and Green cardholders among Indians take advantage of the visa-free transit facility while traveling between USA and India through Changi Airport. The US visa stamp on your Indian passport must be valid for 30 days or more from your arrival in Singapore.

Qatar: Visa-free Doha Stopovers

Among visa-free countries for Green Cardholders and US visa holders, Qatar offers visa-free Doha stopovers to passengers of Qatar Airways flights. Qatar’s visa waiver for Indian passport holders from India and the US is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance at Doha’s Hamad International Airport, given they have a passport with minimum 6-month validity, confirmed return flight tickets, and confirmed hotel booking in Doha.

You can call Indian Eagle’s customer helpline +1800-615-3969 for phone-only budget flight deals of Qatar Airways from USA to Doha, or US to India via Doha. You can call the same number to explore Doha stopover packages and the best deals available at Indian Eagle.

Mexico: Visa-Free for 180 Days

Mexico is one of the countries that offer visa-free entry to Indians with Green Card or a valid US visa. You can stay visa-free in Mexico for up to 180 days. Cancun in Mexico is a most popular beach getaway for Indians in the United States. Just make sure your US residency permit or visa is valid at the time of entry to explore Mexico cities and beaches without any visa hassles.

Peru: Visa-Free for 180 Days

Peru is among the visa-free countries for Green Cardholders and US visa holders with Indian passports. You can stay in this South American country for up to 180 days in a calendar year. Minimum 6-month validity of your US visa is a must for visa-free entry to Peru from the time of arrival. Whether hiking to Machu Picchu or soaking in the charm of Lima is your travel goal, the US visa or Green Card makes it easier for Indians to visit Peru without a visa.

Philippines: Visa-Free for 14 Days

The Philippines offers visa-free entry to US Green Cardholders and US work visa holders among Indians. In addition to visa-free entry to Manila, you can holiday for up to 14 days. Your visa-free stay in the Philippines can be extended once for another 7 days. In certain cases, Indian passport holders don’t need a US visa to travel visa-free to Philippines, but they must present confirm return flight tickets, proof of accommodation, and financial documents.

Thailand: Visa-free Entry

Among visa-free countries for Indian passport holders, Thailand is the most welcoming destination in Asia. Irrespective of your US visa status or validity, you can visit Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days. Starting May 2025, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is mandatory for all inbound foreign travelers for legal entry into the country. to be filled online at least 3 days prior to your scheduled arrival in Thailand, the digital form replaced the old paper form and includes a healthy declaration too.

Bahamas: Visa-Free for 30 Days

Bahamas makes island travel easy for Indian passport holders with a valid US visa or Green Card. You don’t need a separate visa to enter, as long as your US visa is multiple-entry and has been used at least once to travel to the US. You can stay up to 30 days in the Bahamas visa-free, soaking in its beaches and clear blue waters. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months at the time of entry.

Visa-on-arrival Countries for Green Cardholders and US Visa Holders

UAE Visa-on-Arrival for Dubai and Abu Dhabi Stopovers

The United Arab Emirates tops the list of countries that offer visa on arrival to US Green Cardholders and Indians with a valid US visa. The UAE visa on arrival for eligible Indians is issued for 14 days of stay, which is extendable for additional 14 days for a nominal fee. The visa-on-arrival entry to the UAE has been expanded to Indians holding valid visas or legal residency permits from not only USA and Canada, but also Singapore, Japan, Australia, South Korea, and New Zealand. Your Indian passport and Green Card or US visa must be valid for 6 months from the date of arrival at Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

Indian Eagle, the most trusted travel-booking partner for Indians in the US, has the best deals for Dubai Experience packages and ‘Visit Abu Dhabi’ tour packages, in addition to exclusive phone-only flight deals from Emirates and Etihad Airways. Indian Eagle’s air-ticketing and tour-planning team is available at +1800-615-3969 (24/7).

Oman: Visa-on-arrival/e-Visa for 30 days

The Oman visa on arrival for Green Card holders and eligible Indian citizens come for 30 days. Like other visa-on-arrival countries, Oman requires Indian citizens to hold a valid visa from the UK, Canada, the UK, Japan, or Schengen countries. Return flight confirmation and hotel reservation are pre-requisites for visa-on-arrival entry to Oman.

Sri Lanka: Visa on Arrival with ETA for 30 Days 

Among the visa-on-arrival countries for US Green Cardholders and Indian citizens without a US visa, Sri Lanka grants 30-day visa on arrival through an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online. It is simple and hassle-free. Sri Lanka’s visa-on-arrival requirements include your passport with 6-month validity, return or onward flight tickets, proof of accommodation, and financial support documents.

Bahrain: Visa on Arrival for 30 Days

In the Gulf region, Bahrain is on the list of countries offering visa on arrival to Indians with a US Green Card or visa. You can stay in this beautiful island country for up to 14 days on a single-entry visa or up to 30 days on a multiple-entry visa. Starting in October 2025, Gulf Air flights from New York to India make it easier for US visa holders and Green Cardholders to get Bahrain’s visa on arrival for a stopover. A 6-month valid passport, return or onward travel booking confirmation, accommodation proof and sufficient funds are mandatory.

The booking of customized tour packages in all these visa-free countries for Green Cardholders and Indians on US Visas is just a call away at Indian Eagle! Call our trusted travel advisors at +1800-615-3969 for budget-friendly stopover tour packages for family and individuals, as well as discounted phone-only flight deals.

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Both Emirates and Etihad are flag carriers of the UAE, but they have certain competitive advantages over each other – which makes them unique in their way. In the high-stakes game of long-haul travel, Emirates and Etihad strive to deliver the best travel experience, irrespective of travel class and itinerary. A big fleet, a bigger network, luxurious cabins, world-class inflight entertainment, bar lounges at 35,000 feet collectively define Emirates, whereas Etihad stands out for flying nanny service, US pre-clearance, and the first-class suite – The Residence.

Emirates or Etihad: Which airline has a bigger US-India network

Emirates Airlines’ direct access to 12 US gateways has the upper hand in competition with Etihad given the fact that Etihad’s US network is half of Emirates’. You can book Emirates flights to Dallas, Houston, San Francisco, and Seattle – which are missing from Etihad’s list of US destinations. On the other hand, direct Etihad service to Atlanta, and Charlotte is a competitive edge over Emirates.

• Emirates’ US Destinations: Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York (JFK and Newark), Orlando, San Francisco, Seattle, Washington, D.C. 
• Emirates’ India Destinations: Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Thiruvananthapuram.
• Etihad US Destinations: Boston, Chicago, New York (JFK), Washington D.C. (IAD), Atlanta,  Charlotte (starting in March 2026).
• Etihad India Destinations: Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Kochi, Kozhikode, Jaipur, and Thiruvananthapuram.

Emirates’ Dubai stopover vs Etihad’s Abu Dhabi stopover

Both the Middle East airlines offer stopovers in their hub cities, which you can add to your one-way travel or round trip from USA to India. Their stopover programs are free to some extent. While Emirates’ Dubai stopover is restrictive to layovers of minimum 8 hours for Economy/Premium Economy passengers, and 6+ hours for Business Class guests. Etihad’s Abu Dhabi stopover program includes complimentary hotel accommodation for two nights, irrespective of travel class and fare type. While Emirates’ Dubai Connect package for eligible travelers includes free meals and airport transfers, Etihad does not offer the same in its stopover program.

Any airline’s free stopover program comes with certain limitations. For instance, Emirates’ free stopover program is limited to a layover of maximum 26 hours – which is not enough to experience the best of Dubai. Only customized stopover plans with curated experiences for 2 to 4 days can satisfy your urge to explore Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Check out Indian Eagle’s Dubai Experience packages with luxury and leisure activities at unbeatable rates. 

Etihad vs Emirates: Primary advantages

The US CBP pre-clearance facility at Abu Dhabi is Etihad Airways’ primary edge over Emirates for the US-bound passengers. They enter the US as domestic travelers. This is why the US-based Indians turn to IndianEagle.com for best Etihad flight deals for their parents’ hassle-free travel from India to USA via Abu Dhabi.

Premium Economy is Emirates’ best advantage in competition with Etihad. Emirates Airlines is the only Middle East carrier to offer award-winning premium economy seats. The UAE’s Dubai-based flag carrier has the best premium economy seats in the world, according to Skytrax Awards which is hailed as the Oscars of aviation.

Emirates or Etihad: Which airline is more family-friendly

Both Emirates and Etihad are family-friendly airlines catering to specific needs of family travelers with young kids in ways unique to their inflight service standards. Be it dietary care or inflight entertainment for children, Emirates Airlines goes the extra mile to ensure parents travel at ease. Organic baby food being available on board makes Emirates flights the first preference of family travelers with kids younger than 2 years. In addition to baby food reheating to bottle-warming service on board, Emirates’ flight attendants provide feeding bottles and milk formula to those not carrying baby food from home.

Etihad is the only airline offering nanny service for infants aboard select flights from USA to India and other destinations. Introduced in 2013, Etihad Airways’ flying nanny service is a special assistance program designed to ensure a comfortable flight for families with young children. The flying nannies are trained in different modules of childcare, child psychology, and how to entertain kids with different behavior types. They are helping hands when it comes to warming up milk bottles, feeding kids, changing their diapers, reading out to them, and lulling them into sleep.

Emirates vs Etihad: Business Class travel

Both airlines deliver more or less the same business class travel experience from USA to India; however, Emirates’ business class is a notch above Etihad’s in terms of unique facilities on board. Emirates owns the largest fleet of superjumbo A380s with spacious business class cabins. Precisely, Emirates’ A380 business class is known for inflight bars where guest can socialize over an exclusive selection of wines and champagnes.

Emirates operates a larger flagship lounge network for its premium guests, including business class flyers than Etihad Airways. Rated highly by Skytrax Awards, Emirates’ lounges at Dubai DXB Airport offer livelier premium space than Etihad lounges at Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport, according to various passenger survey reports.

Etihad vs Emirates: Passenger safety

Inflight comfort and passenger safety equally matter during long-haul intercontinental travel. The list of 10 safest airlines in the world includes both Emirates and Etihad. Recently, Airlineratings.com, a leading aviation safety ranking website, named Etihad Airways as the world’s safest full-service airline. Emirates is adjudged as the fifth safest airline in 2026. Notably, Emirates’ AI mechanism for turbulence-free flights is one of the latest developments in aviation 2026.

The post Emirates vs Etihad: Which Airline is Better for Your Solo or Family Travel between USA and India first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

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The day following the New Year celebrations, parts of Europe including the Netherlands, woke up to travel chaos caused by heavy snowfalls and freezing temperatures. A thick blanket of snow brought operations to a standstill at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, a popular transit hub in Europe for flights from USA to India and beyond. Hundreds of flights to and from AMS Schiphol Airport have been grounded leaving travelers stranded in and out of Europe.

KLM Dutch Airlines alone cancelled 300 flights on Monday, 5 January, with the harsh winter weather being anticipated to continue in the coming days. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport’s international transit area fell short of accommodation for travelers returning to North America from India and other countries after a holiday break. Among the stranded passengers, Indians could neither exit the airport nor the airside transit area to seek better facilities, as it usually requires a visa.

Do Indians need a Visa to leave Schiphol Airport during a layover? 

Yes, Indians require a visa to enter the Schengen zone outside Amsterdam International Airport in the Netherlands. It is a regular Schengen Visa. Even a valid US visa or Green Card (LPR) is not considered a substitute for this mandatory requirement. Non-US citizens are mostly under the wrong impression that they can exit the Schiphol Airport terminal during a long layover or delayed connection, just because they have a US/Canadian PR or visa.

If Indians, among the affected passengers of Air France-KLM flights, had a short-stay Schengen Visa, they could have managed decent accommodation outside the airport while in transit.

Do Indians need an Airport Transit Visa for Amsterdam Schiphol?

Usually, Indian Passport holders do not need an Airport Transit Visa (ATV) for airside connection or transfer at Schiphol AMS Airport. However, they may need a transit visa for the Netherlands in specific events listed below:

• US-India flight itineraries involving a change of airports in the Netherlands, or two Schengen layovers like Paris and Amsterdam, demand a transit visa. In such events, Indian nationals are required to clear passport control during transit.
• If your bags are not checked through to the destination, to say from departure in the US to arrival in India or vice versa, you have to claim the checked baggage and recheck it for the connecting flight at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. A Netherlands Airport Transit Visa can save you in situations like this.
• Generally, low-cost or regional airlines do not manage checked baggage transfer between two connecting flights, though at the same airport. If your multi-city trip from USA to India via the Netherlands involves a low-cost airline, especially in transit, you may need an Airport Transit Visa to collect and recheck your baggage.
• If your itinerary requires you to switch terminals through passport control at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, you need an Airport Transit Visa to exit the airside transit area.

Do US citizens need a Schengen Visa to exit Amsterdam Airport during a layover? 

The Netherlands allows US citizens to enter the Schengen area without any visa during a layover in Amsterdam. US citizens must have a valid passport with sufficient blank pages (at least 3 months after departure from the Netherlands) to be eligible for visa-free entry to Amsterdam or any part in the Schengen Area. US passport holders can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days over a period of 180 days in a year.

This ‘Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Transit Visa’ guide is brought to you by Indian Eagle, the most trusted travel-booking partner for Indians and Americans. For nearly 20 years, the Indian Eagle team of fare researchers, aviation experts, and travel economists has been making travel from USA to India and beyond affordable with phone-only budget flight deals available at +1800-615-3969 (24×7).

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You have not subscribed to the Global Entry program for expedited entry formalities in the US. No worries! Mobile Passport Control App is your free guide to faster immigration clearance and customs screening for seamless re-entry to USA after an international trip. Some savvy travelers call MPC App CBP’s best kept secret, as only 8% of inbound travelers used this in 2024, though it is the best alternative to Global Entry, and that too for free.

What is Mobile Passport Control App 

Mobile Passport Control works as a digital “fast lane” through immigration and customs at US airports. A free official app from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP), MPC helps streamline your arrival in the US and quicken your entry into the country. It eliminates the need to make customs declaration in paper. Rather, you can easily submit your passport information and customs declaration to the CBP through the Mobile Passport Control App on your phone. It gives you access to dedicated express lanes at more than 50 airports across the US.

Mobile Passport Control vs Global Entry 

Both Mobile Passport Control and Global Entry are designed to expediate the US entry process, but they are poles apart in several aspects. Firstly, MPC App is absolutely free whereas Global Entry is a premium program for $120 for 5 years. Unlike the Global Entry Trusted Traveler program, Mobile Passport Control App requires no application process, no in-person interview, no fingerprinting, basically no prior approval. You can easily download the app on your phone for immediate use. While Global Entry and TSA PreCheck come together, MPC is a convenient alternative for those seeking a complimentary solution.

Where You can Use Mobile Passport Control

As of December 2025, you can use CBP’s MPC App at 53 US entry points, including 35 international airports, 14 US preclearance facilities abroad, and 4 seaports (cruise ports). Precisely, this covers almost all the major gateway airports in the United States and several international transit hubs overseas. Using MPC APP, you can breeze through US immigration and customs clearance at major airports like NYC JFK, Los Angeles LAX, San Francisco SFO, Chicago ORD, Atlanta ATL, Houston IAH, Detroit, and Miami MIA.

If you travel on Etihad flights to USA from India, you can clear US immigration and customs through MPC App at the designated preclearance facility at Abu Dhabi Airport. The US entry preclearance facilities in Canada and Ireland do also support the app for eligible international travelers.

How to use Mobile Passport Control App

CBP’s MPC App is compatible with iPhones and Android mobile devices. You can download the app before you travel back to the US. Once installed, you need to create a profile by scanning your passport or entering the passport details manually. The app stores the information securely. You can add to the profile maximum 12 people traveling with you. No background check, fingerprinting, or pre-approval is required.

The app can be used to further the process only within 4 hours before landing or immediately after landing in the US. You need to click and upload a selfie through the app for identity verification followed by a few standard customs declaration questions. Hit ‘Submit’ once you answer the questions. Your information is shared with the CBP over a secure connection, and you will receive confirmation, either as a QR code or a receipt on the screen.

As you deplane and head toward immigration, look for signs for “Mobile Passport Control” or ask an airport staff where the MPC lane is. Major US airports have clear signage directing MPC app users to designated lanes.

You’ll hand over your actual passport and show the CBP officer the confirmation QR code or receipt that you receive through the app. The officer scans your passport and/or the QR code to verify the info that you submit through MPC App. He might ask a couple of routine questions or simply verify your identity against your selfie. And that’s it! You are all set to enter the country or take a domestic flight without the paper work and probably in a fraction of the waiting time for other passengers.

Who can use Mobile Passport Control App

According to the CBP, US citizens and lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) can use Mobile Passport Control App for seamless arrival and fast entry in the United States. It is also available to Canadian citizens visiting the US on B1/B2 visa, and Visa Waiver Program travelers with pre-approved ESTA. In plain terms, nationals of the countries eligible for the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are privileged to use the app.

Can B1/B2 visa holders from India use MPC App for hassle-free arrival at US airports?    

No, B1/B2 visa holders from India are not eligible to use the Mobile Passport Control App. However, if you are an NRI holding a US Green Card (lawful permanent resident), you are eligible to use MPC for a quicker and more convenient immigration experience at supported US airports.

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Booking cheap flights tickets and packing bags are just stepping stones. A real milestone is going through the airport security screening – which can be overwhelming for some travelers. TSA Cares assistance is what makes TSA screening less stressful for senior citizens, non-English speakers, first-time travelers, the disabled, families with special kids, and passengers with medical conditions or special needs. Unlike TSA PreCheck, TSA Cares is a free program that focuses on support rather than speed.

What is TSA Cares Assistance Program?

TSA Cares is a special support program for those travelers who need extra assistance at US airports. The Transportation Security Administration had launched it in 2012 to make airport security screening more accessible and less stressful. The TSA Cares program provides assistance to passengers who may feel overwhelmed or face challenges at security checkpoints due to language barriers, age, medical conditions, disabilities, special needs, or first-time travel anxiety.

Who are eligible for TSA Cares Assistance at US airports?

TSA Cares is available to any traveler who needs help during airport security screening. There is no formal eligibility approval, membership, or documentation required to use this service. TSA Cares is usually provided to:

• Travelers with visible or invisible disabilities
• Passengers with medical conditions or implanted medical devices
• Travelers with autism, sensory sensitivities, or anxiety related to flying
• Non-English-speaking travelers or those with communication/speech difficulty
• Senior citizens who need extra assistance during security screening
• Families traveling with children who have special needs
• Passengers carrying religious, cultural, or sacred items that require special handling

TSA Cares vs TSA PreCheck 

Membership and Fee:

• TSA Cares is a completely free assistance service. There is no membership.
• TSA PreCheck is a paid trusted traveler program. It costs $75 to $85 for a 5-year membership.

Purpose

• TSA PreCheck focuses on faster security screening through dedicated lanes and fewer screening requirements.
• TSA Cares focuses on support and guidance, helping travelers navigate the security process.

Enrolment and Approval

• TSA PreCheck requires enrolment, background checks, and approval. Approved travelers receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that must be added to boarding passes.
• TSA Cares does not require enrolment, approval, or documentation. Assistance is requested for a specific reason or purpose.

Airline Dependency

• You get TSA PreCheck benefits only if your airline participates in the trusted traveler program. Even though you’re a TSA PreCheck member, you can’t use it if the airline does not participate in the program.
• TSA Cares does not depend on any airline.

How to get TSA Cares assistance?

Applying for TSA Cares is easy, but doing it correctly helps ensure you get the support you need at your departure airport. Follow these steps:

1. Plan early (at least 72 hours before your flight)

TSA strongly recommends calling the TSA Cares helpline (1-855-787-2227) at least 72 hours before your departure so they have time to coordinate with your airport’s security team.

2. Two ways to request TSA Cares support

You can request assistance either online or over the phone. If your flight is more than 72 hours away, use the TSA Cares request form online. If you are scheduled to fly within 72 hours, call the TSA Cares helpline at 1-855-787-2227 and speak to a representative.

3. Complete the online request form

When using the TSA Cares online form, you will need to enter:

• Your first name, last name, valid email ID, and phone number
• Your departure flight details, including airline name and flight number.
• Your departure airport (choose the US airport you will be leaving from).
• The date and time of your flight.
• A description of why you need assistance – medical conditions, disabilities, language support, or special items you are carrying.

After submitting your request or calling TSA Cares, you may receive a confirmation call or email from TSA. This may include questions to clarify your needs.

4. Ask for a Passenger Support Specialist at the TSA Checkpoint (If Needed)

If you have not been contacted before travel, you can ask a TSA security officer or supervisor at the airport for a Passenger Support Specialist (PSS) to assist you during screening.

This guide on TSA Cares program is brought to you by IndianEagle.com, the most trusted travel-booking partner for Indian Diaspora and Americans. Booking the best flight deals and best seats at IndianEagle.com is easier and simpler for your best travel experience. You can call +1-800-615-3969 to get unbeatable phone-only flight deals from our airline partners.   

FAQs: TSA Cares Assistance

Is TSA Cares available for domestic or international passengers?

The United States’ TSA Cares program is available for passengers in need, irrespective of flights, domestic or international. Passengers who are scheduled to travel within USA or take international flights to India or some other country must have genuine reasons to apply for TSA Cares.

Do I need medical documents to use TSA Cares?

No. TSA Cares does not require medical documentation. Travelers only need to explain their situation and what they need assistance with during security screening.

The post TSA Cares vs TSA PreCheck: How TSA Cares Assists Travelers through Airport Security Screening for Free first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post TSA Cares vs TSA PreCheck: How TSA Cares Assists Travelers through Airport Security Screening for Free appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

In the United States, an Escort Pass is a special gate pass for individuals to accompany actual travelers from terminal entry to the boarding gate through security checkpoints. US airlines issue Escort Passes to help travelers requiring assistance during departure or on arrival, like minors traveling alone, senior citizens with limited mobility, and travelers with disabilities. These special passes aim to make departure less stressful for certain groups of flyers needing support.

Is Escort Pass same as Gate Pass at US airports?

An Escort Pass is also called a Gate Pass in the USA. A Gate Pass for travelers’ assistance at US airports is no way different from an Escort Pass. Be it an Escort or Gate Pass, it enables you to accompany and assist the passenger (the elderly, the disabled, or unaccompanied minor) through airport processes until boarding.

Escort Pass vs Airport Visitor Pass

Both Escort Pass and Airport Visitor Pass allow non-travelers to enter airport terminals and go past security, but they are issued for different purposes. Visitor Passes issued by San Diego SAN, Seattle Tacoma, Detroit Metropolitan, and few other US airports, let non-travelers access secure terminal areas to see off family members, catch up with friends in transit, and hang out in the retail area. Unlike a Visitor or Guest Pass, airlines issue Escort Passes to assist specific travelers navigate US airport terminals with ease.

Non-ticketed guest or visitor passes are available at no more than 15 airports, including Seattle, Pittsburgh, Orlando, John Wayne, San Diego, and Philadelphia airports; whereas escort gate passes are available at most airports across the United States. Only select US airports can issue visitor passes to non-flying guests, while escort passes are issued by only US airlines. A Visitor Pass is more liberal than an Escort Pass in the USA, as the latter comes with limitations.

How to get an Escort Pass at US airports? 

• Determine the purpose: Confirm why you need an airport escort pass – whether to see off an unaccompanied minor, help senior citizens navigate the terminal until boarding, or assist passengers with disabilities.
• Go to the airline counter: Visit the operating airline’s counter at the departure airport.
• Provide documents: You must carry a TSA-approved photo ID. Airlines may also require proof of your relationship with the traveler or your authorization to accompany him or her.
• Follow security protocol: You must go through the airport security screening along with the passenger. The pass is valid only for the specific flight and for stipulated hours.
• Stay with the Passenger: You can stay with the passenger until boarding. You may not be allowed to stay within the terminal once the passenger is onboarded.

What documents are required to get an Escort Pass

• Valid government-issued Photo ID, such as a passport, driver’s license, or state ID
• Passenger’s flight tickets or boarding pass, age certificate (in case a minor), a physician’s letter certifying the traveler’s limited mobility or medical condition, a valid disability certificate for the differently-abled traveler
• Proof of your relationship with the traveler needing support at the airport, and/or a letter authorizing you to accompany and assist the traveler (as required by some airlines)

This guide on US airport escort passes is brought to you by IndianEagle.com, the most trusted travel-booking partner for Indian Diaspora and Americans. Booking budget flight tickets to India and beyond is easier and simpler at Indian Eagle. Subscribe to our newsletter for the upcoming travel discount offer and best deals. You can call +1-800-615-3969 to get the most affordable phone-only flight deals from our airline partners.   

Do non-US airlines offer airport gate passes in USA? 

Only US airlines are authorized to issue airport escort passes to eligible individuals. Non-US carriers do not offer escort passes for companions at US airports. Instead, major international carriers like Air India, Etihad, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines assign their own staff to assist passengers requiring special assistance.  

Can I get an escort pass at busy US airports like NY JFK, Atlanta, Dallas DFW, or Chicago ORD?

US airlines issue escort passes at major airports including their gateway hubs. However, approval is subject to the issuing airline’s policy and national security protocols.

Which US airlines provide escort passes?

Most of the US-based carriers, including United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest, and Alaska Airlines provide escort gate passes.

The post With an Airport Escort Pass in USA, You can Save on Meet and Greet Service for Your Elderly Parents or Family Needing Support first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post With an Airport Escort Pass in USA, You can Save on Meet and Greet Service for Your Elderly Parents or Family Needing Support appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

International airport terminals are very happening places with vibrant retail areas. Airports across the US look merrier and livelier with glittering Christmas trees, festive lights, bustling passengers, and frequent aircraft movement during the winter holiday period. How is it if you get to spend some more time with your departing family inside the terminal and accompany them to the boarding gate amid the “happy holidays” vibes? Isn’t it interesting?

A handful of US airports allow non-travelers to enter the terminal, go past TSA security and access the area that is usually reserved for passengers with boarding passes. Just before major airlines’ Black Friday flight sale became public on the eve of Thanksgiving Day 2025, San Diego International Airport launched the SAN Pass – a visitor pass program for non-ticketed visitors. With a SAN Pass, you can see off your family from the boarding gate, greet your visiting parents in the arrivals area, and hang out in the retail area of San Diego Airport.

How to apply for San Diego Airport’s visitor pass 

Applying for San Diego International Airport’s new visitor pass is as easy as that for Seattle Tacoma Airport’s visitor pass. Here’s a step-by-step guide to obtain the SAN Pass online. Currently, the visitor pass is not available offline.

• Apply online through SAN Airport’s official website. You can do it up to 7 days in advance or jus the day before your family’s travel is scheduled.
• Fill in your full legal name, date of birth, and gender matching your TSA ID.
• TSA reviews your application. If you apply in advance, you’ll typically get an approval email just after midnight on your day of visit. For same‑day applications, the response may come in about 15 minutes.
• Once approved, San Diego Airport sends you a PDF pass via email, which you must save on your mobile device (printed copies are not accepted).
• At the airport, go to the general screening line in Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, present the SAN Pass saved on your phone, along with a TSA‑approved ID, and go through standard security screening.

Who can apply for SAN Airport visitor pass?

The SAN Pass is available for non-ticketed individuals with a valid TSA-approved photo ID. You must be 18 years or older to apply for the visitor pass to San Diego Airport. Minors are allowed if accompanied by an adult with the SAN Pass. One adult can take up to three children along with him or her on one SAN visitor pass. For minors under 18, a government-issued photo ID is not required. This program is especially helpful for those who want to spend a few extra hours with their family and loved ones take flights from San Diego to India or any other destination.

Is San Diego Airport’s pass for visitors free?

Yes, the SAN visitor Pass is completely free for all eligible non-travelers. There is no application fee. The pass is valid for the day of its issuance.

What other California airports have visitor pass program?

• Ontario International Airport: ONT Visitor Pass
• Palm Springs International Airport: PSP Visitor Pass
• John Wayne International Airport: OC AirPass

TSA Security and San Diego Airport rules for visitor pass

• SAN Pass holders go through regular TSA security screening, just like passengers.
• PreCheck, CLEAR, or expedited lanes are not available.
• You must follow all TSA rules regarding prohibited items.
• The pass is completely free, but there is a cap on the number of passes issued daily.
• Passes are given on a first‑come, first‑served basis, subject to TSA approval.
• Misuse of the pass, such as trying to bypass the airport’s official visitor badge program, can result in revocation and a loss of future privileges.
• The program may be adjusted, suspended, or cancelled depending on airport operations or security requirements.

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The post San Diego Airport Launches Visitor Pass; Now You can Go Past TSA Security to See Off Your Family first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post San Diego Airport Launches Visitor Pass; Now You can Go Past TSA Security to See Off Your Family appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

“Recently, one of our customers cancelled his travel booking despite he got the best flight deals to India, giving the reason that his OCI card application is pending and he does not have a visa to India. Perhaps, he did not know he would get an Entry X Visa to India in 7-10 days of application. X Visa is a short-term alternative to OCI Card. Many foreign nationals of Indian origin obtained this temporary entry visa during the COVID-19 pandemic when the OCI Card processing was discontinued,” said the chief travel advisor of IndianEagle.com, the most trusted air-ticketing partner of Indians abroad.

What is Indian X Visa?

The Indian X Visa is a non-tourist Entry Visa issued to Indian-origin foreign citizens/nationals and their immediate family members. It comes between an OCI Card and a tourist visa in terms of validity and benefits. Unlike an Indian tourist visa, ‘X’ Entry Visa facilitates multiple entries to India during its validity. Though not valid for lifetime unlike an OCI Card, it is often considered the best alternative in certain scenarios and for those who are not eligible for OCI Card.

Entry X Visa India: Validity and Stay Rules

The Entry Visa to India is generally issued for up to 5 years with multiple entries, in various X categories. Those eligible for an X Visa can stay up to 180 days in India during a visit, similar to an Indian tourist visa for US and Canada citizens/nationals. If the period of continuous stay exceeds 180 days, it must be registered with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) in India. ‘X’ Entry Visa holders traveling to India with plans to stay more than 180 days continuously must register with the FRRO or FRO within 14 days of arrival.

Who can apply for Entry X Visa to India?

• X-1 Visa: Persons of Indian Origin, including foreign nationals with one of the parents/grandparents/great-grandparents from India, are eligible for X-1 Entry Visa. This category is ideal for US citizens and nationals with Indian roots.
• X-2 Visa: Foreign spouses and children of Indian citizens/nationals and PIO or OCI cardholders can apply under X-2, as long as they are not registered as OCI.

Other Categories

• X-3 Visa for foreigners joining Auroville, ashrams, spiritual institutions, and non-profits
• X-4 Visa for foreign nationals who own property in India and meet RBI guidelines
• X-5 Visa for diplomats or officials visiting India in a personal capacity

List of documents required for X Visa to India

• A valid foreign passport
• Proof of Indian origin (your or your parents’ or grandparents’ Indian passport or birth certificate)
• Marriage certificate (for spouse applicants)
• Birth certificate (for child applicants)
• Spouse’s Indian passport or OCI/PIO card copy (for X-2 visa)

How to apply for Entry Visa to India in X categories

• Complete the visa application online on www.indianvisaonline.gov.in
• Visit your nearest consulate if required
• Collect valid documents required for your application
• Submit biometrics if required by the Indian mission
• Pay visa fees ($100 to $200) online and wait for processing
• After arrival in India, register on e-FRRO in the event of staying more than 180 days

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X Visa vs OCI Card: What’s better?

• Validity: India X visa is temporary, usually valid for 5 years and extendable through FRRO/FRO. OCI Card is a lifetime multiple-entry visa to India for Indian-origin foreign citizens.
• Restrictions: OCI Cards come with fewer restrictions than Entry Visa to India in X categories. A standard X Visa allows 180 days of continuous stay on a visit to India, whereas OCI cardholders can live in India for any length of period. Staying longer than 6 months in India requires X Visa holders to register with FRRO, but there’s no such regulation for OCI cardholders.
• Employment: Entry X Visa does not entitle persons of Indian origin to work in India, whereas OCI cardholders can take up employment during their stay in India, except in the sectors of Indian government.
• Application Timeline: Entry Visa applications are usually processed within 1-3 weeks at Indian consulates, depending on X categories. OCI card applications take longer, often 8–12 weeks or more due to thorough verification of documents.

When is Entry X Visa to India the best option?

The debate – what is better, X Visa or OCI Card – goes in favour of Entry X Visa in certain scenarios. If your child turns 20 years old and receives a new passport but renewal of the pre-owned OCI Card is pending, an X Visa will facilitate his/her travel to India.

India does not grant OCI Card to those foreign-born kids whose one parent is Indian and the other parent is a Pakistani or Bangladeshi national/citizen. Given this condition, Entry X Visa is the best and safest option for their travel to India.

Do India X Visa holders need Digital Disembarkation Card to enter India?

Yes. All foreign nationals and citizens, even those of Indian origin, must submit the e-Arrival form online and obtain Digital Disembarkation Card within 72 hours prior to their scheduled arrival in India, irrespective of whether they have an updated OCI Card or a valid X Visa. Check out our short video on India’s Digital e-Arrival Card.

The post What is Entry X Visa to India? A Complete Guide on ‘OCI Card vs X Visa’ for Persons of Indian Origin first appeared on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.

The post What is Entry X Visa to India? A Complete Guide on ‘OCI Card vs X Visa’ for Persons of Indian Origin appeared first on Indian Eagle Blog | US-India Travel News | Diaspora Stories.