Each month, the United States of America facilitates the evacuation of thousands of at-risk Afghans from Afghanistan, providing them with an opportunity to enter the country. Initially, Afghans are relocated to a third country where they undergo administrative procedures and interviews at the embassy or consulate of this intermediary nation. Subsequently, upon successful completion of these processes, Afghan refugees obtain visas permitting entry into the United States. After completing all necessary steps toward traveling to the United States, applicants who are now visa or travel document holders of the United States are getting ready for the trip. In this guide article, "Beporsed" covers all the necessary steps for travel and also provides information about all the necessary steps before traveling and packing up to the flight stage to the United States.
Travel Scheduling and Obtaining Tickets
When it comes to travel arrangements and ticket acquisition, applicants will receive a document approximately two days prior to their departure. This document will indicate the date and time of their flight but does not serve as a flight ticket. This paper will tell the applicants when and where they have flight and how much weight they can carry in check-in and hand bags It will instruct applicants to undergo a final medical examination before their journey to the United States. The medical checkup must be done at the designated clinic in the camp.
This paper contains information about:
- Case number
- Principle applicant name
- Departure date
- Arrival Date in the United States
- Family Size
- Medical Check-ups (Day First), and Final Medical Check-ups (Day Second).
- Pre-Departure Orientation Date and time.
- Submitting Check in Bags to the IOM
- The Pre-Departure Checking Date and time.
The "Beporsed" article will cover various important aspects related to travel preparations, including medical checkups scheduled for the first and second days, as well as the dates and times for the pre-departure orientation and pre-departure checking sessions. These crucial details will be elaborated upon in the article to ensure that readers are well-informed and prepared for their upcoming journey.
Medical Check-ups
During the medical check-up, both the applicants and their accompanying family members who are preparing for travel are mandated to undergo the health assessment on the scheduled date and time. This evaluation includes essential health checks such as monitoring blood pressure, checking weight, and inquiring about pregnancy status for female applicants. Furthermore, a comprehensive physical examination will be conducted on all individuals to ensure their well-being and readiness for the upcoming journey. These measures are crucial for the safety and health of both the applicants and their family members during the travel process.
Pre-Departure Orientation
Pre-departure orientation (PDO) is a key component of the resettlement process and has been recognized as an essential feature of successful integration. Equipping and empowering refugees prior to them departure has positive benefits across the resettlement continuum, ensuring that their rights are upheld; that they understand their responsibilities and obligations; and that they are able to integrate meaningfully and sustainably into their new communities.
PDO aims to help prepare refugees for their upcoming resettlement, ease their anxiety and develop realistic expectations about their new lives. It provides key information about the resettlement country to address integration challenges early on and facilitate the process of adaptation. PDO activities include building coping and other skills.
For each flight passenger, the permissible luggage allowance includes two bags weighing 23 kg each and one carry-on bag weighing 7 kg. While there is no duty imposed on gold coins, medals, or bullion, it is mandatory to declare these items to a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer. It is essential to note that a FINCEN 105 form must be completed upon entry for monetary instruments exceeding $10,000, which includes currency such as gold coins. Travelers are allowed to bring substantial amounts of money in the form of cash, money orders, or traveler's checks with no specified maximum limit. However, any sum exceeding $10,000 USD must be declared on both Form 6059B and FinCEN 105 upon arrival. It is crucial to complete all forms accurately and comprehensively. Additionally, it is advisable to consider the specific policies of the airline being utilized.
Permitted Items in Carry-On:
- Small tools (7 inches or less in length)
- Non-flammable liquids, gels, and aerosols (3.4 ounces or less)
- Matches and lighters
- Batteries (dry and lithium)
- Knitting needles
- Gifts (unwrapped or subject to inspection)
- Electronics (smaller than a standard-size laptop)
- Medication and medical equipment
- Baby food, equipment, and needs
- Expensive items (jewellery, currency, etc.)
- E-liquids, electronic cigarettes, and vaping devices
- Disposable and electric razors
- Wedding dress (carefully packed)
Restricted Items in Carry-On:
- Sharp objects
- Sporting goods and athletic equipment (some exceptions apply)
- Self-defence items
- Gel-type candles
- Large quantities of alcohol (more than 3.4 ounces)
Prohibited Items:
- Alcoholic beverages over 140 proofs
- Flammable items
- Explosive materials
- Chemicals
- Outdoor and wildlife safety products
- Guns and ammunition
Penalties for Non-Compliance:
All travelers heading to the United States should be aware that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) enforces fines of up to several thousand dollars for individuals attempting to bring certain prohibited items on board.
Packing Bags for Traveling to the United States
Preparing for a journey to the United States is an exciting endeavor, and one of the key elements that can significantly impact your travel experience is how you pack your bags. Efficient packing not only ensures that you have everything you need but also contributes to a smoother and more enjoyable trip. Here are some valuable tips and tricks to consider when packing for your adventure to the United States.
- Research and Plan: Before you start packing, research the weather and cultural norms of the specific regions in which you are going to resettled in the U.S. This will guide your choices regarding clothing and help you pack appropriately for the climate and local customs.
- Make a Checklist: Create a detailed checklist of items you'll need. Categorize essentials such as travel documents, medications, clothing, electronics, and toiletries. This will help you stay organized and ensure that nothing crucial is forgotten.
- Travel Documents: Keep all necessary travel documents in a secure and easily accessible place. This includes your passport, visa, flight tickets, travel insurance, and any other required paperwork.
- clothes, accessories, and toiletries, allowing for efficient packing and unpacking.
- Versatile Clothing: Pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. This minimizes the number of clothes you need to bring while ensuring flexibility for various occasions.
- Medications: If you take prescription medications, bring an ample supply for the duration of your stay. Carry a copy of your prescriptions and a doctor's note for added convenience.
- Power Adapters: Don't forget power adapters for your electronic devices. The U.S. uses a different electrical system, so having the right adapters ensures your devices remain charged.
- Check Baggage Allowances: Make sure you know the baggage limits for airlines to prevent paying extra fees for excess baggage. Pack wisely and leave room for any souvenirs or items you might buy while traveling. Each passenger can check-in with two bags weighing up to 23 Kg each and carry one personal bag.
To sum up, mastering the art of packing can greatly improve your travel adventures. Additionally, stay informed about prohibited items as discussed earlier in the text. Through thorough research, careful planning, and strategic organization of your possessions, you can embark on a smooth journey to the United States, fully equipped for the exciting experiences ahead.
Submitting Check in Bags to the IOM
Prior to departure, applicants are instructed to bring their luggage to a designated location specified by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and hand them over for processing. IOM vehicles will circulate within the camp to collect the bags and transport them to the designated IOM facility for further handling. Applicants are required to remove their bags from their rooms and place them at the front area of the blocks, facilitating easy identification by the IOM vehicles and drivers.
Only the primary applicant is expected to accompany their bags to the IOM building, where the bags will be labeled with the distinctive IOM logo for easy recognition. Each bag will also be tagged with the applicant's name, case number, and a unique serial number, which the applicants should memorize for identification purposes. It is important to note that only checked-in luggage needs to be brought to the IOM location for submission, while carry-on bags will remain in the possession of the passengers.
When Applicants submitting their checked-in bags, if any items are confiscated upon arrival for security purposes, applicants can reclaim these goods by presenting their passports for verification. Once the items are retrieved, applicants have the opportunity to place them back in their checked-in luggage for the journey. Subsequently, the bags will be weighed by IOM officials to ensure that each bag does not exceed the weight limit of 23 kg.
This process of reclaiming confiscated goods and verifying the weight of checked-in bags is essential for maintaining security measures and adherence to airline baggage regulations. By following these procedures, applicants can ensure a hassle-free and compliant travel experience to their destination.
These procedures ensure a systematic and organized process for handling luggage before the journey, streamlining the transportation of belongings and facilitating a smooth travel experience for all applicants.
The Pre-Departure Checking and Heading to the Airport
Applicants are mandated to arrive at the designated IOM location promptly on the scheduled date and time, where a thorough final check will be conducted by both IOM and CARE team agents. It is imperative that applicants bring their carry-on bags along and also remember to carry their room keys to surrender them to the IOM officials upon arrival. US-CARE team agents will verify passports and grant access to the location where applicants can witness their checked-in bags being loaded onto trucks for transportation to the airport.
Following the completion of the final check, applicants and their eligible family members will be escorted to the awaiting buses, which will transport them to the airport for departure. It is advised to remain patient and maintain a sense of organization, as you are embarking on a long journey ahead. By adhering to these guidelines and cooperating with the officials, applicants can ensure a smooth and efficient transition as they commence their travel to their destination.
During the departure process, an IOM agent will accompany you to the airport and provide assistance throughout all check-in and procedural requirements. The specific procedures at airports may vary depending on factors such as the purpose of travel, the airline, and whether you are departing or transiting. Here is a general overview of the typical departure processes:
Check-in: Approach the check-in counter and present your passport, travel documents, and ticket. Obtain your boarding pass and proceed to security.
Security Check: Undergo security screening, where you will be required to remove items such as belts, shoes, and electronic devices.
Immigration Exit: After passing through security, proceed to the immigration exit counters with your passport and any exit documentation prepared.
Boarding Gates: Once cleared through immigration, follow the signage to the boarding gates. Boarding usually commences well in advance of departure time.
Throughout this process, both the IOM agent and airline representative will be available to assist applicants. It is essential for applicants to adhere to instructions and remain with the IOM agent at all times.
After obtaining your boarding pass, proceed to the waiting area in the airport terminal. Ensure that the details on your boarding pass are accurate, including the flight number, departure gate, and scheduled departure time.
When your boarding group or row is called, proceed to the boarding gate with your boarding pass and identification readily available for verification.
Upon entering the airplane, locate your designated seat as indicated on your boarding pass. Store your carry-on items in the overhead bin in front of you. In the event that you are unable to locate your seat, present your boarding pass to a flight attendant for assistance in finding your assigned seat.
Tips for travel long travels:
- Dress in comfortable attire and layers to account for varying temperatures on the airplane.
- Stay hydrated by consuming plenty of water throughout the flight to combat the dry cabin air.
- Prevent stiffness by stretching your legs and taking walks around the cabin during longer flights.
- Minimize noise disruption, especially during takeoff and landing, by using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones.
- Ensure safety and comfort by attentively following the instructions provided by the cabin crew.
- Keep yourself entertained during the flight by bringing along books, movies, or music.
- Pack snacks, especially if you have specific dietary preferences or in case the airline's meal service does not meet your needs.
- Take a moment to relax, admire the view from the window, and savor the unique experience of flying.
- To reduce jet lag upon arrival, consider adjusting your sleep schedule before the flight if you are crossing time zones.
- Do not hesitate to seek assistance from the cabin crew if needed; they are there to ensure your journey is comfortable.
- Stay calm during turbulence, a normal part of flying, by remaining seated with your seatbelt fastened and trusting in the aircraft's design to handle it.
- Adhere to airline regulations regarding electronic devices and switch them to airplane mode during the flight.
As you hold your boarding pass in hand, you stand on the precipice of a new adventure, a journey filled with possibilities and discoveries. May the skies above carry you to places where dreams meet reality, and every moment becomes a cherished memory. Safe travels!
Ask for help from "Beporsed"
For those Afghans seeking specific information, "Beporsed" is here to help. You can reach our information center through WhatsApp (+93729807235), Facebook Messenger, or our website's Messenger to ask our online information desk officer for assistance.
For more information
For more information on immigration, resettlement, education and scholarship programs, and other opportunities available to Afghans worldwide, as well as details on the humanitarian services provided by international organizations in Afghanistan and procedures for obtaining civil documents from governmental institutions, please visit Beporsed's website and social media pages.
✓ Beporsed website (www.beporsed.org)