Roberta Aguirre
When travelling to another country, airlines may ask passengers to provide their Advance Passenger Information (API) before travelling. This is a security requirement by the US, EU member states, and other countries, which is separate from the requirement to obtain a travel authority or visa. API includes basic information such as name, date of birth, and passport details, which can be provided online or during check-in. Some countries may also require additional details. The APIS (Advance Passenger Information System) facilitates the delivery of this information to the country of destination when passengers check in.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Advance Passenger Information (API) is a set of information that passengers must provide before travelling to some countries. |
| Purpose | API allows delivering document information to the country of destination when you check in. |
| Requirements | Name, date of birth, and passport details. |
| Provision | API can be provided during check-in (web check-in or kiosk check-in at the airport) or using an online form. |
| Timing | API must be provided before check-in; passengers won't be asked to provide the information again during check-in. |
| Consequences of Non-Compliance | Passengers who refuse to supply API will be refused entry to certain countries and will not be allowed to travel. |
| Relation to Visa | Providing API is separate from obtaining a visa or travel authority. |
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What You'll Learn
- Advance Passenger Information (API) is a set of information that passengers must provide before travelling to certain countries
- Airlines collect API data during check-in or via an online form and send it to border control authorities
- API is separate from applying for a visa or travel authority
- If you have two passports, you must show the same passport at check-in, exit immigration, and arrival immigration
- The US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) requires travellers with British or Irish passports to register with the US government separately
Advance Passenger Information (API) is a set of information that passengers must provide before travelling to certain countries
When travelling to certain countries, passengers may be required to provide a set of information known as Advance Passenger Information (API) before their journey. This is a security requirement by the US, EU member states, and other countries, which mandates airlines to provide details about their passengers prior to their travel. The Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) is an electronic data interchange system established by the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It involves the provision of a limited number of data elements, including identification details from the passenger's passport and basic flight information. This information is collected by the airline and shared with the computer system of the destination state.
APIS allows the destination country to receive passenger document information when they check in. The passport shown at check-in must be the same one used to enter the destination country. The airline collects and verifies this information to ensure the passenger can legally enter the destination country. In some cases, the data may also be shared with the departure country, depending on local laws and agreements.
Passengers travelling to or from the US, for example, are required to provide API before checking in, or they may be unable to fly. Similarly, flights to/from the UK or flights to Europe from outside the Schengen territory also require the completion of the API document. This information is compulsory and must be provided to the respective governments before starting the journey.
It is important to note that providing API is separate from obtaining travel documents or visas. Each country has its own entry rules, customs, and passport control regulations that must be followed. Passengers should contact their airline to clarify any questions regarding API requirements, as they will inform passengers of the specific information needed, which typically includes name, date of birth, and passport details.
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Airlines collect API data during check-in or via an online form and send it to border control authorities
When travelling to another country, airlines may ask passengers to provide their API (Advance Passenger Information) before travelling. This is a security requirement for countries such as the US, EU member states, and others. Airlines collect API data during check-in or via an online form and send it to border control authorities. This data includes the passenger's name, date of birth, and passport details. Passengers can provide their API details either at the time of booking or during check-in.
APIS, or the Advance Passenger Information System, is a tool used by border control to enhance security. It provides officers with pre-arrival and departure manifest data on passengers and crew members. Airlines are required to collect and submit this information to the relevant authorities. The data is typically collected during check-in or through online forms.
APIS ensures that the destination country receives the necessary passenger information. Airlines collect and supply this data to the destination country, and in some cases, they may also share it with the departure country, subject to local laws and agreements. The sharing of API data between countries and airlines is generally not public knowledge, so it is challenging to determine exactly what information is shared.
APIS plays a crucial role in border security and facilitates the smooth processing of passengers at their destination. By providing API, passengers can rest assured that their information is securely transmitted to the relevant authorities, contributing to a safer and more efficient travel experience. It's important to note that providing API is separate from obtaining travel documents or visas, which are subject to the rules of the destination country.
In summary, airlines play a vital role in collecting and transmitting API data to border control authorities. By gathering passenger information during check-in or via online forms, airlines ensure compliance with international security measures. This process enhances border security and streamlines the travel experience for passengers. It's important for travellers to provide accurate and timely API information to their airlines to avoid any potential travel disruptions.
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API is separate from applying for a visa or travel authority
When travelling to another country, you may be asked by your airline to provide your passenger information beforehand. This is a separate requirement from obtaining a travel authority or a visa. This is known as Advance Passenger Information (API). Your airline will inform you of the specific information they need from you. Typically, they will ask for your name, date of birth, and passport details when you book your flight or check in. You can usually provide this information online, either at the time of booking or through an automated passport reader during check-in.
API is solely the set of information that passengers must provide before travelling to certain countries. It is not the same as obtaining travel documents, such as visas, which are subject to the rules of your destination country. For example, if you are travelling to the US on a British or Irish passport, you must register your details with the US government using the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA). This is separate from providing API to your airline.
API is also distinct from applying for a visa in that it does not guarantee entry to your destination country. Even with API, you must still follow the entry rules, customs, and passport control regulations of each country you visit. Additionally, API does not replace the need for a valid passport. All API participants travelling outside their home country are required to have a valid passport.
While API is a mandatory requirement for travelling to certain countries, it is separate from the visa application process. API focuses on collecting and providing passenger information to border control authorities, whereas a visa involves obtaining official permission to enter or stay in a particular country. It's important to understand and fulfil the requirements for both API and visa or travel authority when planning international travel.
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If you have two passports, you must show the same passport at check-in, exit immigration, and arrival immigration
When travelling with two passports, it is important to understand the regulations and requirements for each country you are entering and exiting, as well as the specific instructions from the airline.
Firstly, Advance Passenger Information (API) or APIS (Advance Passenger Information System) is a set of information that passengers must provide before travelling to certain countries. This is collected by the airline and sent to the border control authorities of the destination country. The information typically includes your name, date of birth, and passport details. Providing API is separate from obtaining travel documents, such as visas, which are governed by the rules of your destination country.
Now, regarding the use of two passports, the general guideline is to present the passport that corresponds to the country you are entering and exiting. In other words, show the passport of the country you are going to (destination country) to the airline and show the passport for the country you are in (home country) to the immigration authorities. This ensures that you are complying with the entry and exit requirements of each country.
However, it is important to note that the specifics may vary depending on the agreements between different countries and airlines, and these may not always be public knowledge. Therefore, it is essential to check the regulations of the countries you are travelling to and from, as well as the policies of the airline you are using.
Additionally, if your two passports have different names on them, this may cause complications, and it is recommended to consult official sources or seek personalised advice for such cases.
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The US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) requires travellers with British or Irish passports to register with the US government separately
When travelling to another country, you may be required to provide Advance Passenger Information (API) to your airline. This is a set of information that passengers must provide before travelling to some countries. The API is separate from a visa or travel authority and is usually provided at the time of booking or by an automated passport reader during check-in. It typically includes your name, date of birth, and passport details.
The US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is a separate requirement from providing API to your airline. The VWP allows eligible citizens or nationals of designated countries to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or certain types of transit for 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. To utilise the VWP, travellers must meet specific requirements, including possessing a valid e-passport with specified security features, such as a digital chip containing biometric information.
Travellers from countries participating in the VWP, including those with British or Irish passports, must register their details separately with the US government using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This process involves submitting an application through the official ESTA website, which is subject to strict privacy controls. Upon completion of the ESTA application, travellers are notified of their eligibility to enter the United States under the VWP.
It is important to note that the ESTA authorisation is not equivalent to a visa. Travellers who prefer to obtain a visa or are ineligible for the VWP can apply for a visitor (B) visa. Additionally, those intending to stay longer than 90 days or travelling on a non-VWP-approved carrier must apply for a visa. Therefore, travellers with British or Irish passports must ensure they register with the US government separately through the ESTA process when utilising the Visa Waiver Program.
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Frequently asked questions
API stands for Advance Passenger Information. It is a set of information that passengers must provide before travelling to some countries.
The authorities of certain countries require airlines to transmit API for all passengers flying to or via their country before departure. This is to verify whether you can legally enter the destination country.
Basic details such as your name, date of birth, and passport information are required for API.
You can provide API during check-in at the airport or online beforehand.
You may not be allowed to travel if you do not provide your API in the time required.
