Tips for Travelling From India to the USA

• Written by Gungun Bhatia

  Reviewed by Rashmi Rai

• favorite0Like

  favoriteBe the First to Like

  • Copy Link Copied! Share on Facebook Share on Linkedin Share on Twitter Share on WhatsApp

  Share

Planning a trip from India to the United States?

Whether it's a business meeting, family holiday, Christmas bash, or you just want to embark on a grand adventure, your US travel should be planned ahead of time.  But with constantly changing rules, documentation needs, and logistical requirements, it's easy to miss crucial guidelines, leaving you to wonder whether you have missed any travel restrictions to the USA from India?

Therefore, in this article, we have compiled seven essential tips that can help you plan your trip smartly.

7 Tips for Easy Travels to the USA

When planning a trip to the US, you must keep a check on your passport, visa, proof of travel purpose and stay details. Additionally, you must also stay updated on any travel restrictions for the USA and follow the tips below:

Carry All Essential Travel Documents

While this might seem basic, you’d be surprised how often travellers forget a critical document. The US travel restrictions for India are very particular about documentation, and missing even one piece could delay or prevent your entry. Some of the must-carry documents include:

• Valid Passport (with a minimum of 6 months validity)
• Valid US Visa (Tourist, Student, Business, etc.)
• Return flight tickets (recommended for tourist and business visa holders)
• Proof of Accommodation in the US
• Travel Insurance documents
• I-20 Form (for students) or DS-2019 (for exchange visitors)

A best practice is to carry both physical and digital copies. Also, keep a set of emergency contact numbers—both in India and in the US.

Passport Renewal

According to the USA travel rules and regulations, your passport should be valid for the next six months after you come back from your trip. So, you must check the expiration date of your passport and see if you need to renew it.

Did you know? You can also apply for a passport renewal if the expiry date of your passport is nearer.

Stay Updated on India to USA Travel Restrictions

Before booking your flight, it is crucial to understand the current status of  India to the USA travel restrictions. Due to ongoing global health issues, the United States sometimes changes its entry rules for travellers from India. Here's what you should check:

• Vaccination Requirements: Make sure you meet the vaccination rules if they still apply when you travel.
• Health Declarations and Test Results: Based on current guidelines, some airports or states might still ask for health forms or test results for specific health conditions. Check with your airline to confirm.
• Transit Rules: If you have a layover in another country on your way to the US, find out about any rules specific to that country.
• Travel Bans & Suspensions: Most travel suspensions are over, but look out for any emergency updates on official U.S. embassy or CDC websites.

Tip: Save the official US Embassy (India) and airline pages and check them often for the newest rules for travel from India to the USA.

Travel Advisory

It’s advisable to refer to the USA travel advisory before your departure. Due to an increase in the number of terrorist activities and crime, countries sometimes announce emergencies. With the help of a travel advisory, you can check if there are any areas in the US that you should not visit or that are not safe for travellers. You should also check currency restrictions for entry and exit. Read about the travel policies, local laws, vaccinations, entry, exit formalities, and conditions mentioned in an advisory to travel safely to the US from India.

>> Check: Travel Insurance Online Plans

USA Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is more than just a formality; it’s a protective measure if things don’t go as planned on your trip. Medical expenses in the US can be very costly, so without USA travel insurance, you will get financially drained in an emergency. Here’s why having travel insurance is important:

• It covers emergency hospital stays, medical transportation, and accidental injuries.
• It may include coverage for COVID-19, depending on your plan.
• It covers cancellations, missed flights, and lost baggage.
• Some plans have 24/7 support and direct claim processing with partner hospitals.

Hence, it’s better to get yourself or your family members insured with comprehensive travel insurance. Leading insurers, such as Care Health Insurance, provide international travel insurance plans that address various potential travel issues.

Stock Your Wallet

Pickpocketing and money stealing are right up there with flight delays and lost luggage when you are travelling to the USA. So, it’s better to stock your wallet before you jet off to faraway lands. You do not need to carry wads of cash. You can opt for a travel card, a credit card, or your international debit card to avoid a money crunch on your trip. Also, checking the currency rate before you board for the US from India can be wise, as it can help you avoid last-minute exchange hassles.

Know What You Can & Cannot Carry to the USA

U.S. customs laws are stringent. Many items allowed in India could cause problems for you in America. Keep this in mind when packing:

Allowed:

• Packed snacks (dry items)
• Clothes, toiletries, and chargers
• Personal electronics (laptop, phone)

Not Allowed / Restricted:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Dairy or meat products
• Religious powders like kumkum, sandalwood paste, or turmeric (often flagged)
• Certain over-the-counter medications

Packing Tip: Check the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website for the latest India to USA flight restrictions on goods.

Additional Considerations Before You Board

While the core list is essential, don't miss these bonus tips for India to USA travel restrictions:

• Check Layover Requirements: When your flight has a layover in another country like the UAE or the UK, be sure to check if you need a transit visa or have to follow that country's travel rules.
• Track Baggage Efficiently: Consider using smart tags such as Apple AirTags or Tile to keep an eye on your bags, especially if you’re changing flights within the US.
• Understand Port of Entry Rules: When you reach US immigration, you should prepare to answer questions about why you're visiting, how long you plan to stay, and to show proof of stay and timely returns.

Takeaway

Whether you are a seasoned traveller or a newbie, you should consider the India to USA travel restrictions, flight guidelines, and customs rules. These points, as well as others, are important to protect yourself from any kind of misfortune during your journey. So, whether you're travelling for business, education, or leisure, make sure you don't forget these seven tips for safe travels.

>> Also Read: Travel Insurance for the United States

Disclaimer: All plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.