Albuquerque Airport: Immigration Checks And Customs Control

Albuquerque Sunport Airport (ABQ) is an international airport located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States. The airport features a Main Terminal, which includes Concourses A, B, and C, as well as an International Arrivals gate. The International Arrivals gate, formerly Concourse C, is used for occasional international flights and houses U.S. Customs on its lower level. All international passengers must go through this area for passport and visa checks before entering the United States, with several customs and border protection officers on duty to assist. The airport also offers a TSA PreCheck program for expedited security screening. While specific details about immigration checks at ABQ are limited, the presence of U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers indicates that immigration checks are likely conducted for incoming international flights.

Immigration and customs checks at Albuquerque Airport

Albuquerque Sunport Airport (ABQ) is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and offers a unique travel experience that reflects the cultural richness of the state. The airport features a Main Terminal, which includes Concourses A, B, C, and an International Arrivals Gate.

Immigration Checks

The passport and immigration control area at Albuquerque Airport is located in the main terminal, near baggage claim. All international passengers must go through this area and have their passports and visas checked by customs and border protection officers before entering the United States. It is recommended that passengers have all necessary travel documents readily available to expedite the process.

Customs Checks

The International Arrivals Gate at Albuquerque Airport, formerly known as Concourse C, is used for occasional international flights and houses U.S. Customs on its lower level. Passengers arriving on international flights will go through customs at this gate.

Security and Screening

Albuquerque Sunport Airport has several security checkpoints located throughout the airport. The main security checkpoint is in the main terminal, near the ticket counters. There are also additional checkpoints in Concourse A and Concourse B for passengers travelling through those gates. It is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow for security screening.

TSA PreCheck

The airport offers a TSA PreCheck program for eligible passengers, which allows them to use a dedicated fast-track lane during security screening. The TSA PreCheck lane is located at the main security checkpoint in the main terminal. Passengers can apply for TSA PreCheck online or in person at an enrollment centre.

Global Entry

The airport also has a Global Entry Enrollment Centre, located in the main terminal. Global Entry is a program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers entering the United States. Applicants must complete an online application and attend an in-person interview at the enrollment centre. Once approved, travellers can use automated kiosks for customs declarations and biometric scanning upon arrival, making the process faster and more efficient.

Additional Services

Albuquerque Sunport Airport provides a range of services to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience. These include free Wi-Fi, a lost and found office, children's play areas, special-needs services, banking services, and a first aid station.

Security and screening procedures

Albuquerque Sunport Airport has a range of security and screening procedures in place to ensure the safety and efficiency of passenger transit. The airport consists of a Main Terminal, with three concourses: A, B, and C, as well as an International Arrivals gate.

Security Checkpoints

Security checkpoints are located throughout the airport, with the main security checkpoint in the Main Terminal, near the ticket counters. Additional checkpoints are located in Concourse A and Concourse B for passengers travelling through those gates. It is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow for security screening.

Fast Track Lanes

The airport offers a TSA PreCheck program for eligible passengers, providing a dedicated fast-track lane at the main security checkpoint. This allows passengers to keep on their shoes, belts, and light jackets, and laptops and liquids can remain in their carry-on bags. Some airlines also offer their own fast-track lanes for premium passengers, located near the main security checkpoint.

Passport and Immigration Control

The passport and immigration control area is located in the Main Terminal, near baggage claim. All international passengers must pass through this area to have their passports and visas checked before entering the United States. Customs and Border Protection officers are on duty to assist passengers with the immigration process. To expedite the process, passengers are advised to have all necessary travel documents readily available.

Screening Procedures

Passengers are allowed one carry-on suitcase and one personal item, such as a purse, laptop, or backpack. Liquids and gels must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, and placed in a single, quart-sized, zip-top plastic bag. Metal objects, such as coins and keys, should be placed in carry-on bags. Laptop computers and other electronic devices must be placed in screening bins, along with shoes, jackets, and belts. Firearms must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container as checked baggage, with the airline notified at the ticket counter.

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry options

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are programs that allow travellers to go through a dedicated fast-track lane for security screening at the airport. This usually means faster and less intrusive screening.

TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck is a program that expedites traveller screening through participating TSA security checkpoints. It costs $77.95 to $85 for a five-year membership, and renewal costs $68.95 to $70. TSA PreCheck members can use a dedicated fast-track lane at the main security checkpoint in the main terminal.

Global Entry

Global Entry is a program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers entering the United States. It costs $120 for a five-year membership and includes TSA PreCheck benefits. The Global Entry Enrollment Center is located in the main terminal, and appointments can be made online.

TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry

Global Entry is a better choice for those who travel internationally as it includes TSA PreCheck benefits. However, TSA PreCheck is a more affordable option and has more enrolment locations.

Passport and visa requirements

To enter the United States through the Albuquerque Sunport Airport, all international passengers must go through the passport and immigration control area located in the main terminal, near baggage claim. Here are some important passport and visa requirements to keep in mind:

Passport Requirements:

• All international travellers entering the United States must possess a valid passport from their country of origin.
• Ensure that the name on your travel tickets matches exactly the name on your passport or official ID. Mismatched names may require additional identity verification.
• Carry all travel documents with you and not in your checked luggage.

Visa Requirements:

• Depending on your country of origin and the purpose of your visit, you may need to obtain a visa or other entry documents before travelling to the United States.
• For U.S. citizens re-entering the country by air, a U.S. passport book is required. Land and sea border crossings may accept additional travel documents, such as U.S. passport cards and Trusted Traveller cards.
• Green card holders, or lawful permanent residents, should carry their Form I-551 or Form I-512 if their Form I-551 is pending.

Other Important Documents:

• It is recommended to have proof of rabies vaccination for dogs and to check requirements for other pets.
• Medications should be in their original packaging, and only bring the amount needed for your trip. Prescription medications must be under the traveller's name.
• If travelling with new electronics (less than six months old), consider bringing receipts or registration (CBP Form 4457) for items such as cameras or laptops.
• If travelling with restricted animal or plant products, permits and/or certificates may be required.

Recommendations:

• Have all necessary travel documents readily available to expedite the immigration process.
• Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow for security screening and immigration checks.

Airport amenities and services

Albuquerque Sunport Airport offers a range of amenities and services to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for its passengers. Here's everything you need to know:

Getting Around the Airport

The Albuquerque Sunport Airport terminal is divided into four concourses: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, and the International Arrivals gate. To navigate efficiently, follow the clear signage to your respective concourses and gates. Information desks are strategically placed throughout the terminal for assistance. Moving walkways and elevators are also available for easy movement between different levels and concourses.

Tips for a Smoother Experience

• Familiarize yourself with the airport layout using the directory maps available online or throughout the terminal.
• Allow extra time for navigating between concourses, especially during peak travel hours.
• Take advantage of airport staff assistance if you need help with mobility or directions.
• Know the location of your airline within the terminals for easier navigation.

Amenities and Services

• Art Gallery: The Sunport Art Gallery in Concourse A showcases amazing local art, offering a relaxing cultural experience before your flight.
• Charging Stations: Charging stations are scattered throughout the terminal near seating areas, allowing you to charge your devices comfortably.
• TSA PreCheck: Eligible passengers can use the dedicated lane at the main security checkpoint for faster processing.
• Baggage Claim: Baggage claim areas are well-marked, and flight information display screens provide updates on carousel assignments.
• Global Entry Enrollment Center: Expedited clearance is available for pre-approved, low-risk travellers entering the US through the Global Entry program.
• Free Wi-Fi: The airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the facility. Connect to the "sunport" network.
• Lost and Found: The Lost and Found office in the Main Terminal assists with locating lost items.
• Meditation Room: A meditation room is available for passengers seeking a quiet space to relax or pray.
• Dining Options: The airport offers a variety of dining choices, including sit-down restaurants like Black Mesa Kitchen and Tia Juanita's Pronto, as well as quick options such as Starbucks and Quiznos.
• Shopping: Explore unique souvenirs and gifts at shops like New Mexico Marketplace and Spirit of the Red Horse.
• Rest and Relaxation: The airport provides armrest-free seating options and carpeted floors for added comfort.
• Observation Deck: Enjoy a bird's-eye view of the airport's activity from the 2500 sq. ft. observation deck located airside between Gates A1 and B1.
• Pet Relief Area: A full-service indoor pet relief room, featuring an Albuquerque Bosque-themed wall and artificial grass, is available airside at Gate A7. There are also two additional outdoor relief areas on the ground floor.

Frequently asked questions