First Time Visiting the USA via LAX (2026)

What to Prepare Before Your Flight Lands

Documents to Have Ready

Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond your travel dates.

ESTA approval (for Visa Waiver Program countries) — UK, EU, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and many others. Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Cost: $21 USD. Apply at least 72 hours before travel.

Visa (if required) — If your country doesn't participate in the VWP, you need a valid U.S. visa.

Customs and Border Protection Form — Your airline distributes these during the flight. Fill out completely before landing. One form per family household.

Hotel/accommodation address — CBP officers will ask where you're staying.

Return flight details — Officers may ask when you're leaving.

Mobile Passport Control App (Free)

The MPC app speeds up immigration for eligible travelers. Available on iOS and Android. Set up your profile before your flight and use the dedicated MPC lane at immigration — typically much shorter than the standard visitor queue.

You've Landed at TBIT — Your First 10 Minutes

Most international flights arrive at Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT). Follow signs for "Immigration" or "U.S. Customs and Border Protection." Walk straight there — don't browse shops. The walk from gates takes 5–10 minutes with moving walkways.

US Immigration — What to Expect Step by Step

• 1
  Join the "All Other Passports" / "Visitors" queueOn busy days this queue can be 45–90 minutes. Have your passport, form, and ESTA/visa ready.
• 2
  Use the automated kiosk first (most terminals)Enter passport info, take a photo, answer customs questions. Generates a receipt for the CBP officer. Takes 2–5 minutes.
• 3
  Proceed to the CBP officer boothThe officer reviews documents, asks questions, and collects biometrics (fingerprints and photo). Standard procedure.
• 4
  Common questions you'll be asked"What is the purpose of your visit?" — "How long will you be staying?" — "Where will you be staying?" — "Do you have a return ticket?" Answer calmly and concisely.
• 5
  Biometrics collectionAll 10 fingerprints and a facial photograph. Standard for first-time U.S. visitors. Takes about 60 seconds.
• 6
  You're cleared — proceed to baggage claimWelcome to the United States.

Customs Declaration — Don't Overthink It

What to declare: Any food, plant material, meat products. Gifts or purchases over $800. Cash or financial instruments over $10,000. When in doubt — declare it. Declaring and having it waived is painless. Having an undeclared item discovered can result in fines starting at $300.

Secondary inspection: A percentage of travelers are directed to secondary inspection — a more thorough review. It can add 30–60 minutes. It's not a judgment. Stay calm.

Currency, ATMs & Payments in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a card-first city. Credit and debit cards accepted virtually everywhere.

ATMs at LAX: Available in all terminals. Use recognized U.S. bank ATMs (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo) rather than standalone ATMs.

Currency exchange: Available but rates are generally unfavorable. Use an ATM instead.

Tipping: Restaurant servers: 18–22%. Taxi/rideshare: 15–20%. Hotel bell staff: $1–2 per bag. Baristas: $1. Not tipping is considered impolite in the U.S.

Getting Connected — Phone and Data

eSIM (recommended): Services like Airalo, Google Fi offer eSIM plans you download before departure. Typically $10–30 for a week of data.

International roaming: Simplest option if your carrier includes U.S. coverage.

Physical SIM: Carrier stores (T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon) not available inside LAX. Plan to get one near your hotel.

LAX WiFi: Free throughout the airport — connect to "LAX Free WiFi."

Getting from LAX to Your Hotel

For first-time international visitors, this is where the decision matters most. After 10+ hours of flying and an unfamiliar immigration process, your ground transport choice determines whether your LA trip starts smoothly or stressfully.

For first-time international visitors, a pre-booked private transfer eliminates every variable. Your driver meets you inside, handles your bags, and takes you directly to your hotel. No apps to figure out, no unfamiliar transit systems, no navigating an outdoor lot while jet-lagged. It's the smartest way to start your first U.S. trip.

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