Current as of [TIMESTAMP]. Information is updated as it is received.
It’s important to us that you get the help you need during these rapidly changing times. Right now, there are multiple travel waivers in place. If you want to change, cancel or rebook your flight, you can do so on united.com or the United app.
You can also get the answers you need quickly through our chatbot using the link below. It won’t be able to connect you with an agent, so please contact us if that’s something you need to do.
Note: The change fee will display as waived, but any difference in fare may apply.
Get more detailed instructions for changing or canceling flights
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Get more detailed instructions for changing or canceling flights
We’re currently experiencing heavy traffic on our website. If you experience an error while trying to change or cancel your flight, please try again later.
For everyone's safety, all travelers are required to wear a face covering with no vents or openings that fully covers their nose and mouth. Face coverings must be worn during the entire flight, unless travelers are eating or drinking. We’re also requiring travelers to wear face coverings in the airport, including at United customer service counters and kiosks, United ClubSM locations, our gates and our baggage claim areas. A face shield alone does not count as a face covering. Travelers who aren't wearing their face coverings in the airport or on board may be refused transport and could also lose their travel privileges on future United flights. Children younger than 2 years old are exempt.
Due to fast-changing government mandates and restrictions, this information is subject to change anytime and without notice.
If you’re traveling internationally, you can find the latest country-specific information through the U.S. Department of State website.
If you’re traveling to or within the U.S., please visit the CDC State and Territorial Health website for up-to-date restrictions.
There are currently no travel waivers in effect.
June 1, 2020 - December 31, 2020
March 2, 2020
Travel agents may make voluntary changes by entering waiver code 7JC51 in the OSI field (ARC and BSP reporting agencies), for example, OSI UA 7XXXX.
March 3, 2020 - May 31, 2020
March 2, 2020
Travel agents may make voluntary changes by entering waiver code 7JC4S in the OSI field (ARC and BSP reporting agencies), for example, OSI UA 7XXXX.
We’re permanently getting rid of change fees for most Economy and premium cabin tickets for travel within the United States. This includes Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more
For all other destinations, change fees are waived through December 31, 2020. See terms and conditions
To give you more flexibility when you travel, electronic certificates are now valid for 24 months from the date they were issued. This includes all currently valid electronic certificates and all new ones issued on or after April 1, 2020.
This policy change will automatically appear, but it may not be reflected everywhere right away. We’d appreciate your patience as we work to make that happen.
We’re waiving redeposit fees for award flights issued on or before December 31, 2020, that are canceled at least 30 days before the departure date. You can also change your award flight with no fee. Learn more about changing or canceling your award flight.
For more information about what to do if your travel is affected by a waiver, visit the Flight Delays and Cancellations page.
China has issued entry restrictions for passengers traveling to mainland China. Only Chinese nationals and those with passports exempt from this rule will be allowed to enter. Please contact the Chinese Embassy to see if you will be allowed to travel.
All passengers entering mainland China will be administered a COVID-19 test and must undergo a 14-day compulsory quarantine at their own expense. We recommend that travelers obtain a COVID-19 test in the U.S. and confirm a negative result within 48 hours before their trip.
Flying on United nonstop from the U.S. to mainland China
Chinese passport holders must complete an epidemic and health questionnaire in the WeChat app every day for 14 days prior to (and including) the day of their flight to mainland China, then show their QR code at boarding. Completion of the app questionnaire is a requirement for boarding flights to mainland China. For more information, please visit the Chinese Embassy's website or the Civil Aviation Administration of China website.
Flying on United from the U.S. to mainland China with a connecting flight in another country
Passengers traveling to mainland China from the U.S. with connections in other countries (i.e. Germany, Ireland, South Korea, UK) must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 3 days of their departure date from the connecting city to China. If passengers do not have a test result, they will not be allowed to continue their travels to mainland China and may not be allowed to enter the country where their connection is being made.
To comply with the above, Chinese passport holders must obtain a test and upload the result to the WeChat health app to receive a QR code to display when boarding their United flight from the U.S. Foreign nationals who are authorized to enter China must present a negative test result to the Chinese Embassy/Consulates in the U.S. and obtain a health certificate.
Updated September 3, 2020
Travelers are not allowed to transit through or enter Hong Kong except for those listed below:
All travelers who are eligible to enter Hong Kong must quarantine for 14 days and present a completed Health Declaration Form to the Department of Health upon arrival. Passengers can only travel on flights operated by the same airline group and can't travel to the mainland of China through Hong Kong.
The government of Hong Kong requires travelers departing the U.S. to obtain the following before traveling. United is required to confirm each traveler has the following documents before allowing them to board the flight:
Updated August 20, 2020
Travelers aren’t allowed to enter India, except for those listed below:
All regular visas and e-visas issued before June 30, 2020, stand suspended until further notice, except for:
Travelers should confirm they meet the entry requirements by visiting the Indian Embassy website.
Customers traveling on United from the U.S. to India nonstop must complete two online data submissions.
Quarantine is at the traveler’s expense and additional details of the duration of quarantine and exemptions are available at https://www.newdelhiairport.in/covid19
Finally, India requires all passengers to install the “Arogya Setu” app on their personal devices.
Travelers who have been in the countries listed in the first section of this page in the past 14 days are not allowed to enter, with some exceptions.
Japan has also suspended or invalidated various visas. Be sure to check your visa validity.
Travelers to Japan can expect to be tested for COVID-19 upon arrival.
Effective August 5, Japan will reopen its borders to certain foreign nationals with resident status. On September 1, additional categories of foreign nationals with resident status will be allowed to enter. Visit Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to learn more about the revised entry conditions.
For foreign nationals that meet its entry requirements Japan requires a negative COVID-19 test conducted within 72 hours of departure and a re-entry certification issued by the Japanese Embassy or a Consulate.
Japan suggests that travelers ask their testing facility to comply with a specific form for verification of the test, which can be downloaded here. Otherwise, the test document must include traveler name, passport number, nationality, date of birth and gender. It must confirm that the test undertaken is authorized by Japan and include the test result as well as the date the test was taken and the date the results were received. Finally, the document must include the name and address of the testing facility and the name and signature, stamp or seal of the doctor.
Foreign nationals are also required to obtain from a Japanese Embassy/Consulate a “Re-entry Confirmation Letter.” Please allow enough time to apply and obtain the certificate prior to flying.
For more information, visit Japan’s coronavirus (COVID-19) advisory information page.
Only returning residents of Singapore and travelers with a long-term pass are allowed to enter the country. Short-term visitors are not allowed to enter or transit Singapore. All travelers entering the country are required to fill out a health declaration form prior to boarding and quarantine for 14 days upon arrival.
Flights to Singapore will depart San Francisco and make a stop in Hong Kong before continuing on. The return flight from Singapore to San Francisco will also stop at Hong Kong. Passengers will be required to deplane at Hong Kong and process through a security check and temperature screen. Transfers beyond Singapore are currently not available, therefore all passengers must terminate their journey in Singapore.
All travelers must take a COVID-19 test upon or within three days of arrival to Seoul, and those without a permanent residence in Korea must undergo a 14-day quarantine in a government facility at their own expense in addition to filling out the Agreement to Facility Quarantine document. Nationals and residents of Korea are required to install the self-quarantine safety protection mobile app. Customers that intend to remain in Korea for a short stay are required to install the self-diagnosis mobile app.
Some short-term visas and visa exemptions are temporarily suspended. For the full set of entry requirements, please use our Travel Requirements page. You can also find the latest information on the website for the U.S. Embassy & Consulate in the Republic of Korea.
The Gangnam City Terminal is temporarily closed for check-in until further notice. Travelers should proceed to the airport for baggage acceptance.
Travelers are not allowed to transit through or enter Australia, except for those listed below:
All travelers are required to self-isolate for 14 days from their arrival into Australia. If their duration of stay is less than 14 days, they must self-isolate for the entire duration of stay. When travelers transit through Australia for eight to 72 hours, they must go to mandatory quarantine at the state designated facility until the time of their departing flight.
All travelers entering Guam are subject to medical screening and a 14-day quarantine in a GovGuam facility. For more information on travel requirements and a list of quarantine exemptions, visit the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services website.
Updated August 24, 2020
Travelers are not allowed to enter the Marshall Islands until September 5, 2020.
Until further notice, no passengers will be allowed to deplane at any of the four states in the Federated States of Micronesia including Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae.
Travelers who have traveled through or to China, Hong Kong or Macao in the past 14 days are not allowed to enter Palau.
Any person entering the Northern Mariana Islands may be exempted from quarantine and be able to self-quarantine if they complete all of the following steps:
The test result must be in English and include the name of the traveler, name of the processing laboratory, specimen collection date, indication that the PCR test was conducted and the test result itself
All travelers must also complete a health form before landing in Saipan. For more information, visit the governor’s website.
Travelers to French Polynesia who are older than 6 years of age are required to complete a coronavirus (COVID-19) RT-PCR test with proof of a negative result within three days before international departure. All travelers must also submit an ETIS application, with a printed receipt showing a QR code that must be presented upon arrival to the country.
Upon arrival in French Polynesia, travelers will also be provided with a free self-test kit which they must administer and submit to their place of lodging on the fourth day of their stay.
The Government of Aruba is requiring all arriving passengers to complete an online ED card process no more than 72 hours prior to their trip for approval to board their flight to Aruba. Travelers arriving from certain U.S. states must also upload a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test taken within 12 to 72 hours prior to departure, as Aruba will not allow them to take the test upon arrival.
Additionally, all travelers must complete a travel authorization at check-in and it’s highly recommended that all travelers present proof of a negative COVID-19 test (PCR) taken within 72 hours prior to boarding. All travelers must have health insurance purchased before departure and available at www.edcardaruba.aw. This does not apply to:
Those who are not tested prior to their trip will be required to pre-pay for a mandatory COVID-19 test upon arrival and must self-quarantine for 1 day. This does not apply to:
To complete the ED card process and for more information, visit www.edcardaruba.aw
Travelers must complete a “Bahamas Health Visa” application at travel.gov.bs before departure. You must upload a negative Coronavirus (COVID-19) RT-PCR test result or select relevant exemption category, and provide your contact information. You must present the approved "Bahamas Health Visa" application at check-in and upon arrival.
Travelers must have a negative Coronavirus (COVID-19) RT-PCR test result from a sample dated 5 days or less before arrival in the Bahamas. This does not apply to travelers who are 10 years and younger. Please note that the "rapid" or "quick" antibody test will not be accepted by authorities.
Travelers are subject to medical screening upon arrival and quarantine with monitoring for 14 days at their own expense.
Updated September 3, 2020
All visitors traveling to Jamaica must obtain travel authorization issued by the Government of Jamaica prior to boarding. For a travel authorization, nationals and residents of Jamaica can apply at https://jamcovid19.moh.gov.jm/immigration.html and non-residents can apply at https://www.visitjamaica.com.
Effective August 20, all non-resident visitors 12 years and older from the U.S., Brazil, Dominican Republic and Mexico must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 10 days of their arrival date in Jamaica and upload the results to the Visit Jamaica website.
All passengers are subject to health screenings upon arrival and must sign a Quarantine Order. Those required to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival must self-isolate at their intended place of stay. For more information, please visit the Jamaica Tourist board website.
Updated August 18, 2020
All passengers traveling to Puerto Rico must complete a Travel Declaration Form online at www.travelsafe.pr.gov or www.viajaseguro.pr.gov.
All travelers arriving to Puerto Rico will be required to quarantine at their own expense for 14 days or the duration of their stay, whichever is shorter, unless they:
If you arrive to Puerto Rico and have not been tested before arrival, you’ll receive a Testing Authorization to be tested locally at your own expense upon submission of the Traveler Declaration Form. You must quarantine for the duration of the stay or until tested locally and confirmation of results are properly submitted to the Puerto Rico Department of Health.
Travelers will only be tested at the airport if they’re presenting symptoms upon arrival and are properly referred for testing by Puerto Rico Department of Health authorized personnel.
You’ll be required to interact daily, through text message or email, with the Puerto Rico Department of Health’s automated system for traveler vigilance and monitoring. You’ll be required to respond to a simple set of questions related to current symptoms on a daily basis.
The Government of Belize has issued travel restrictions in effect until further notice. During this time, only Belizean citizens, residents of Belize and accredited diplomats can enter the country. In addition, travelers must have an approval letter issued by Belize’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirming they’re allowed to enter. To obtain this approval letter, apply on Belize’s COVID-19 website and contact the Government of Belize at repatriation@mfa.gov.bz.
Passengers are subject to medical screening and quarantine for 14 days.
Updated August 18, 2020
All passengers entering Costa Rica must complete Costa Rica’s health pass form in English or Spanish before their trip. Passengers must also have medical insurance and a negative COVID-19 PCR test issued up to 72 hours before departure. Please see the medical insurance requirements and more on the Costa Rica Tourism Board’s website. Diplomats and Costa Rican citizens/residents are exempt from Costa Rica’s medical insurance and negative PCR test requirements.
Beginning September 1, U.S. tourists who are residents of the following states are permitted to enter Costa Rica: Connecticut, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Vermont and Virginia. Beginning September 15, U.S. tourists who are residents of Colorado, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania are permitted to enter Costa Rica. U.S. passengers can show Costa Rica Immigration officials a valid driver’s license or state ID as proof of residency in an approved U.S. state.
Updated August 28, 2020
The Government of Honduras requires all passengers to complete an immigration pre-registration form, health survey, sworn declaration to follow all of Honduras’ sanitary and health requirements, and a customs form prior to departure. Visit https://prechequeo.inm.gob.hn/ to complete these forms. All passengers must also have proof of a negative COVID-19 rapid or PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in Honduras. Travelers may be subject to further medical screenings and mandatory quarantine upon arrival.
Updated August 17, 2020
Travelers aren’t allowed to enter. This doesn’t apply to:
All travelers must complete a passenger locator form within 48 hours prior to arrival and are subject to medical screening and quarantine.
Updated August 20, 2020
Before you travel, check the French government’s website for the latest information.
A completed International Travel Certificate must be presented prior to boarding and to immigration upon arrival or when transiting France. You can download the form in English and French here – it’s located under the headline "Attestation de déplacement dérogatoire vers la France métropolitaine depuis les pays tiers et déclaration sur l'honneur." (This does not apply to passengers arriving from Andorra, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Monaco, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, San Marino, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, Tunisia, United Kingdom, Uruguay, Vatican City (Holy See), or an EEA Member State.)
Passengers must also:
The French embassy or consulate may issue a special exemption to allow passengers to travel from the U.S. to France even if they do not have a negative COVID-19 test on departure.
This does not apply to passengers younger than 11 years old, and members of delegation on official mission, diplomatic mission staff, or international organization staff with headquarters or offices located in France, as well as their spouse and children, are exempt. Passengers who originate from a country from which the test is not requested and transit through the U.S. are not required to have a negative PCR test result for boarding on their flight to France. Passengers flying from the U.S. to Charles De Gaulle Airport, to connect to another Schengen country are not required to have a PCR test result for boarding, except if it is required in the country of their final destination.
Updated August 26, 2020
By the order of Germany’s Federal Ministry of the Interior, select passengers are not allowed to enter Germany. Please check the entry restrictions for your trip.
Travelers who visit Germany are subject to quarantine for 14 days. Travelers coming from the U.S. whose final destination is Germany will be required to take a COVID-19 test upon arrival. Those who arrive with proof of a negative PCR test conducted no more than 48 hours prior to arrival are exempt from this requirement. A negative COVID-19 test will end the quarantine requirement. Visit this website for more information about testing restrictions.
Updated August 28, 2020
All passengers arriving in Ireland (Rep.) from the United States who are 16 years old or older, including Irish citizens, are required to complete a COVID-19 Passenger Locator Form within 48 hours prior to arrival. Details of children under the age of 16 should be included on a form completed by an adult accompanying them. After completing the form, passengers will receive an email receipt. Paper forms will be available at the airport upon arrival, but we recommend completing the online form ahead of time. Passengers must present this email receipt or a completed printed version of the form upon arrival. All passengers arriving in Ireland (Rep.) from the United States, including Irish citizens, are also requested to restrict their movement for 14 days.
For more information on Ireland’s public health measures, visit gov.ie/locatorform
Updated August 28, 2020
The Netherlands currently has some restrictions on travel, so check your specific entry restrictions. You can also find more information on the Government of the Netherlands website.
Boyfriends/girlfriends/partners of residents of the Netherlands, as well as accompanying children who are younger than 18 years old, must complete a "Declaration of relationship for COVID entry ban exemption” to be used in connection with documentation for entry, signed by the person residing in the Netherlands. The form must be presented to immigration upon arrival. You can find more detail on the Government of the Netherlands website.
Passengers who are departing from high-risk COVID-19 countries must present to United a completed "Health Declaration Form" before boarding. This doesn’t apply to passengers younger than 13 years. The government of the Netherlands also requires you read these documents before traveling:
Passengers are subject to self-quarantine for 10 days. Learn more.
Updated August 20, 2020
Before you visit Switzerland, please check the entry restrictions for your trip and learn more on the government of Switzerland’s website.
Travelers are subject to quarantine for 10 days, with some exceptions. For more information on the quarantine, please visit the government of Switzerland’s website.
Updated August 31, 2020
The UK government requires travelers to review its health guidance before boarding. If you book or check in on behalf of a group, make sure all members of your group are aware of this guidance.
As of June 8, 2020, there are new rules in place for entering the UK. All persons entering the UK, including returning British citizens, must 1) provide their journey and contact details on an online form and show either a printed or electronic copy of the completed form at the UK border, and 2) self-quarantine for a period of 14 days. Passengers coming from the Republic of Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man and have been there for 14 days or more are exempt from both requirements. Visit the UK government’s website for more information.
The online form can be completed beginning 48 hours before your flight. Travelers are encouraged to complete it before beginning their trip and must present it to immigration upon arrival.
Travelers are not allowed to enter and transit. This doesn’t apply to nationals or residents of Israel.
Foreigners, including U.S. citizens, who are not Israeli citizens or permanent residents will not be allowed to enter Israel unless they’ve obtained a travel exception. Customers whose lives are based in Israel and wish to travel should contact the Consular Department of the closest Israeli embassy or consulate for further information.
Travelers who are authorized to enter Israel are also required to complete an online application and obtain an authorization to travel from the Israeli Government managed website. This authorization is required no more than 24 hours prior to arrival in Israel. Similarly, travelers are required to complete an application prior to departing Israel. Travelers can complete the mandatory process through the links below, and it’s recommended that you keep a digital and hard copy of your clearance with you because you’ll need it to board your flight.
For travel to Israel: https://www.gov.il/en/service/request-entry-to-israel-covid19
For travel from Israel: https://www.gov.il/en/service/request-depart-from-israel-covid19
Travelers are also subject to quarantine for 14 days and must present a completed Health Declaration Form upon arrival.
Updated August 18, 2020
All arriving out-of-state Alaska passengers must complete a Traveler Declaration Form (PDF), as well as provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within the last 72 hours, and present results upon arrival.
If a non-resident arrives without a pre-test, testing is available for $250 per test. You will be required to self-quarantine at your expense while waiting on results.
You can visit Alaska’s official government website for more information.
Updated August 24, 2020
Travelers are not allowed to enter Canada, with the exception of:
Travelers are required to undergo a temperature check prior to boarding their flight to Canada. They should also download the ArriveCAN app to their personal devices to submit required information up to 48 hours before arriving in Canada.
All travelers must arrive at one of the following airports: Calgary (YYC), Montreal (YUL), Toronto (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR). They’re also subject to quarantine for 14 days.(content continues)
As of July 28, all passengers traveling to Connecticut are subject to a mandatory 14-day self-quarantine upon arrival if they’re originating from a restricted state or territory. For more information, visit the state of Connecticut’s website.
Updated August 18, 2020
Hawaii’s governor issued a mandatory 14-day self-quarantine order for all travelers arriving or returning to Hawaii. All travelers, including both residents and visitors, are required to self-quarantine for 14 days from their arrival into Hawaii and fill out a travel and health questionnaire. Starting September 1, U.S. travelers must complete the form online at https://travel.hawaii.gov. Paper forms will no longer be accepted, and United highly recommends completing the form before boarding. International travelers and passengers arriving from Guam will be provided a paper form in flight.
If your duration of stay is less than 14 days, you must self-quarantine for the entire duration of your stay in a residence, hotel room or rented accommodations. People traveling between the islands will no longer be subject to a 14 day self-quarantine.
You can’t use shared facilities or go to public places like the beach, pools, fitness centers, shopping centers, restaurants, bars or local attractions. You can only leave your quarantine location for medical emergencies or to seek medical care, and you can’t have visitors.
Travelers must complete a Hawaii Department of Agriculture form that will be distributed on board their flight which will also include the requirements for the 14-day quarantine, as well as the penalties. You must show a government issued ID upon arrival along with your form. You can find more information on the State of Hawaii’s Safe Travels page.
Updated August 31, 2020
The State of Massachusetts requires all arriving passengers, including returning residents, to complete a "Massachusetts Travel Form" prior to their flight unless visiting from an area designated as "lower-risk". Passengers from states with significant spread of COVID-19 must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival or produce a negative COVID-19 test result that has been administered 72 hours prior to arrival.
As of July 28, all passengers traveling to New Jersey are subject to a mandatory 14-day self-quarantine upon arrival if they’re originating from a restricted state or territory. For more information, visit the state of New Jersey’s website.
Updated August 18, 2020
As of July 28, all passengers traveling to New York are subject to a mandatory 14-day self-quarantine upon arrival if they’re originating from a restricted state or territory. If you’re flying to New York directly from any of these states, you must fill out a Traveler Health Form online at traveler.health.ny.gov and save your email confirmation so you can show it upon arrival. Paper forms will be available at the airport, but we recommend completing the form ahead of time. For more information, visit New York State’s website.
Updated August 18, 2020
By Presidential Proclamation, there are entry restrictions if you’re traveling to the U.S. from:
Customers traveling from these countries who are U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents or immediate family members of U.S. citizens must travel through an airport where the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has enhanced entry screening capabilities. The CDC also recommends passengers self-quarantine for 14 days upon entering the U.S.
Non-U.S. citizens who have visited the countries listed above in the past 14 days will not be allowed to enter or transit through the United States.
To check specific entry restrictions for your trip, please enter your information on our Travel Restrictions page.
Travelers entering Mexico must complete a "Cuestionario de indentificacion de factores de riesgo en viajeros" form and present it to immigration upon arrival. The form can be found at afac.hostingerapp.com.
The Government of Panama currently allows only Panamanian citizens or residents and accredited diplomats to enter the country. All travelers must complete a sworn declaration to follow Panama’s sanitary and health requirement, and non-diplomats must have a negative COVID-19 PCR or Antigen test result issued within 48 hours prior to departure.
Updated September 3, 2020
On July 29, 2020, Brazil lifted its coronavirus (COVID-19) entry regulations.
Travelers entering Brazil who are staying for a short time (90 days or less) must present proof of medical insurance coverage that is valid in Brazil for the duration of their stay in order to board their flight.
The Government of Ecuador has updated its COVID-19 related requirements for all travelers entering the country. All travelers are required to present a completed health form, and it’s recommended that they have proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken up to 10 days before entering the country. Passengers without a negative PCR test on the day of travel will be tested at the airport upon arrival at their expense.
Passengers who arrive with a negative PCR test result, taken up to 10 days before their entry into the country, will not have to comply with mandatory isolation. Passengers who do not have a negative PCR test or who present symptoms upon arrival even with a negative PCR test result, will be tested at their own expense at the airport upon arrival. They must immediately go into mandatory isolation in one of the designated hotels until they receive a negative result or receive the health care they need, according to the development of the disease, if they are positive.
Updated August 17, 2020
Depending on the destination of your international travel plans, there may be specific notices and advisories. For more information, visit the International Travel page.
Cuba: Travel policy changes
As of June 16, 2017, individual people-to-people travel to Cuba for customers who are subject to U.S. jurisdictions are no longer allowed. All customers booking travel on United to or from Cuba must certify their eligibility under one of the authorized categories provided. Please visit the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Cuba travel page to learn more about the authorized categories for U.S. citizens to travel to Cuba.
Additional security measures for international flights to the U.S.
In addition to standard security procedures, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) requires additional security measures for all international flights to the U.S., which may result in extra screening for everyday items such as large electronics, powder, food, books and magazines. TSA has a full list of what is and isn’t allowed on their website.
Large electronics: Travelers with electronic devices larger than a standard smartphone should be prepared to remove these devices from their protective cases or outer packaging for inspection. If you have a case that requires a screwdriver or other special tools to remove, we recommend doing so before arriving at the airport.
Powder-based substances: We recommend all customers place any items that resemble powder in their checked baggage. Some travelers with powder-based substances in their carry-on bags and personal items greater than what would fit in a standard soda can (12 fluid ounces or 350 milliliters) may be subject to additional security measures put in place by the DHS.
For those selected for additional security measures, powder substances in excess of this amount won’t be allowed in the cabin of the aircraft. Examples of powder include ground coffee and tea, flour, sugar and spices. There are some exemptions, including baby formula, medically necessary powder and human remains.
Please note that some foreign governments who perform this screening at the central checkpoint may follow more strict measures, including confiscating and disposing of powder-based substances in excess of permitted quantities.
Arrival times: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends arriving at the airport at least three hours before your international flight to allow time for the additional security measures. Please note the airport check-in hours first.
For more information, please visit the DHS website. You may also contact @AskTSA via Twitter or Facebook Messenger with specific questions or visit TSA customer service.
Traveling on flights precleared by U.S. Customs and Border Protection
If you’re traveling to the U.S. from one of the international airports listed below, we recommend you arrive at the airport three hours before your scheduled departure time. Flights from these airports are precleared by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, so please allow extra time to complete additional border security screening processes before you depart. When you arrive in the U.S., you’ll arrive at a domestic terminal.
We operate flights precleared by U.S. CBP before departure from the following international airports: Aruba (AUA), Bermuda (BDA), Dublin (DUB), Freeport (FPO), Nassau (NAS), Shannon (SNN), Edmonton (YEG), Halifax (YHZ), Ottawa (YOW), Montreal (YUL), Vancouver (YVR), Winnipeg (YWG), Calgary (YYC) and Toronto Pearson (YYZ).
ESTA approvals
There have been some changes recently to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) applications and approvals are no longer processed instantly. If you don’t have a U.S. passport and require an ESTA, we recommend applying when you book your travel and no less than 72 hours prior to travel.
U.S. IDs
Due to the coronavirus, if your driver's license or state-issued ID expired on or after March 1, 2020, and you are unable to renew at your state driver’s license agency, you may still use it as acceptable identification at the checkpoint. TSA will accept expired driver’s licenses or state-issued ID a year after expiration or 60 days after the duration of the emergency, whichever is longer.
REAL ID enforcement
Beginning October 1, 2021, every traveler must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license or other acceptable forms of identification, such as a valid passport or U.S. military ID, to fly within the U.S. Review the complete list of acceptable identification.
Travelers who don’t present an acceptable form of identification won’t be permitted through the security checkpoint.
Learn more about REAL ID enforcement and frequently asked questions.
Chicago O’Hare pedestrian tunnel closures
Beginning May 28, 2020, two of the four pedestrian tunnels connecting Chicago O’Hare Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to the main parking area and the CTA Blue Line station will be closed for construction. Alternate routes between each location will remain open and will be marked with signs.
Cincinnati security checkpoint hours
The security checkpoint at the Cincinnati Airport is open from 3:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. daily. Please plan to arrive at the airport prior to 9 p.m. – even if your flight is delayed – to make sure that you have enough time to pass through the security checkpoint before it closes. It will not stay open late to accommodate delayed departures, and you will not be able to board your flight.
Denver construction
If you’re flying out of Denver, we recommend arriving two hours before your scheduled departure time due to construction in the Great Hall of the Main Terminal. This ongoing construction may result in longer check-in times, new construction walls and limited dining and shopping options. Directional signage will be posted throughout the terminal and personnel will be available to answer questions. Please visit the Denver International Airport’s website for more information.
Denver bag drop
Denver International Airport (DEN) offers free bag drop and check-in service at the Transit Center and 75th Avenue to make it convenient for you to travel, baggage-free, from the time you arrive until you board your flight.
Transit Center bag check: Check your bag at the Transit Center and get your boarding pass before you head up to the terminal and through security.
75th Avenue drive-up bag check: Drive up and check your bag from the comfort of your car before you park. A greeter will remove your bags from your car, check you in for your flight and even print your boarding pass. Then, park in one of the lots or head to the terminal, baggage-free. Upon arriving at the terminal, head directly to security.
Haneda airport processing times
Due to airport expansion occurring at Haneda (HND), we recommend checking in online or with the United app and allowing extra time for checking bags and security screening.
Houston Intercontinental construction and closures
On January 6, we’ll begin construction on the next phase of our new baggage handling system at Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). As a result, we’re expecting more traffic than usual getting into the airport, and we recommend allowing extra time.
Terminal E is also temporarily closed, so customers should go directly to Terminal C to check in for their flights and to go through security.
Kansas City airport processing times
We recommend that customers departing from Kansas City (MCI) allow extra time for check-in and security screening, especially during morning hours. Airport check-in counters open at 3:30 a.m. and TSA security checkpoints open at 3:45 a.m.
Lafayette, Louisiana airport processing times
We recommend that customers departing from Lafayette (LFT) allow extra time for check-in and security screening. Airport check-in counters open at 3:30 a.m. and TSA security checkpoints open at 3 a.m.
Los Angeles traffic information and taxi/rideshare pickup
Ongoing construction near Los Angeles (LAX) is causing heavy traffic outside the airport. We recommend allowing extra time and arriving at least two hours before your flight.
Taxi and rideshare pickups leaving the airport have been relocated to LAX-it, a new area accessible to travelers by shuttle or a short walk from baggage claim. Learn more at flylax.com/lax-it
New York LaGuardia Terminal B updates
With the opening of the new Terminal B Arrivals/Departures Hall at New York LaGuardia on June 13, 2020, it may take up to 20 minutes to walk from the end of the TSA security checkpoint in Terminal B to the gate area. Travelers departing out of Terminal B after this date should plan to arrive at the airport earlier than usual to allow for this additional travel time.
Phoenix terminal change
All our flights depart and arrive from the new Terminal 3 at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
San Juan additional security screenings
The TSA has implemented additional security measures at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) that require all wet or frozen food items to be removed from carry-on baggage and inspected. While food items are permitted in carry-on baggage, travelers departing San Juan are advised to allow extra time at security or to check bags containing wet or frozen food items to expedite the screening process. This policy applies to standard screening lanes but does not affect TSA Pre✓® lanes.
Vail, Colorado, construction
Construction is underway at Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE), resulting in a longer walk between the TSA security screening and gates. We recommend allowing more time for this distance, and require customers to check in 45 minutes before departure if traveling with checked baggage.
Washington Dulles construction
Construction is underway at Washington Dulles (IAD) near the ticket counters. This may lead to longer wait times if you’re checking in or checking bags, so we recommend getting to the airport early.
Washington National construction
Construction at Washington National Airport (DCA) is expected to cause traffic delays on airport roadways, as work crews close lanes in front of Terminal B. Please allow additional travel time to and from the airport. For pickups and drop-offs, please consider using the Terminal Garages since they are located outside the construction zone. Visit flyreagan.com/ProjectJourney for the latest updates.
Williston, North Dakota, airport change
All airlines now fly out of the new Williston Basin International Airport (XWA). If you’re flying from Williston, make sure you go to this airport and not Sloulin Field International Airport (ISN). The new airport is about 15 miles northwest of the old one. Find out more on the airport’s website.
As you plan your next visit, learn how we're putting your health and safety at the forefront of your United Club℠ experience.
We've temporarily suspended operations at most United Club locations and all United Polaris® lounges across our network. For updated hours of operation, visit our United Club and Lounge Locations page. Hours and available locations are subject to change.
Tickets: For tickets issued March 3 through March 31, 2020, customers will be permitted to change without paying a change fee to a flight of equal or lesser value for travel up to 24 months from the original ticket issue date. For tickets issued between April 1, 2020, and December 31, 2020, customers will be permitted to change without paying a change fee to a flight of equal or lesser value for travel up to 12 months from the original ticket issue date.
If the new flight is priced higher, the customer may change for no change fee but must pay the fare difference. If the new flight is priced lower, the customer may change without paying a change fee but no residual value will be given.
Changes/Cancellations: If the customer decides to change or cancel the flight they booked between March 3, 2020 and March 31, 2020, they can retain the value of the ticket to be applied to a new ticket without a change fee for travel up to 24 months from the original ticket issue date. If the customer decides to change or cancel the flight they booked between April 1, 2020, and December 31, 2020, they can retain the value of the ticket to be applied to a new ticket without a change fee for travel up to 12 months from the original ticket issue date. Any changes or cancellation must occur prior to ticketed travel date.
Fare Validity: This applies to all tickets, all UA fare types, all destinations, all points-of-sale, all travel dates available for sale, provided ticket number starts with 016.
Miscellaneous: Fares, fees, rules and offers are subject to change without notice. Seats are capacity-controlled and may not be available on all flights or days. Some fares are non-refundable except during the first 24 hours after purchase. Other restrictions may apply.
Non-humanitarian flights to Cuba are suspended.
