First time international traveler, going to Scotland through Heathrow. Reading what to expect there, but returning to Chicago. What should I do/expect about customs there? Thanks!
Posted by
Bainbridge Island
3302 posts
Do you mean customs ( inspection of goods you are carrying) or immigration ( inspection of your passport)?
And where is the “ there” in your second question, about returning to Chicago? Are you flying from Scotland to Chicago direct, or through Heathrow?
On the same ticket or separate ones?
Posted by
Freedonia
18060 posts
As has been mentioned, there are two parts to international arrivals......immigration and customs. (Americans for some reason combine it into one.)
Immigration--sometimes called Passport Control--is for people. Customs is for your stuff.
Posted by
Lynnwood, Washington
9740 posts
Just a quick correction to the post referencing Seattle. In Seattle, you pick up your luggage first, prior to passport control.
Four lines. Global Entry, Mobile Passport, US Passports, All other passports.
Posted by
Chicago
1348 posts
I’m a Chicagoan. Get mobile passport but expect it to be a mess when you get back and expect surly personalities at best from US Customs and Border Patrol.
You may wish to get an Uber rather than the Blue Line if you live in the city. I am not in the mood for CTA games after a long transatlantic flight and the fun of returning to the USA