Skip to main content

SFO Passport Control Wait Times

San Francisco International Airport

Fast
(under 15 min)
Historical
Live data
Fast
Live Data

Unlock Immigration Data

See real CBP wait times for SFO - USA vs non-USA citizen lanes

Current Passport Control Wait Times

12
Average Wait
minutes
18
Peak Hours
minutes
7
Off-Peak
minutes

Wait Time by Citizenship

USA Citizens

10 min

Global Entry & US Passport holders

Non-USA Citizens

15 min

Foreign passport holders

Related Airport Information

Airport Overview

Complete airport information, arrival calculator, and all wait times

SFO

Security Wait Times

TSA Security checkpoint wait times

10min wait

Airport Parking

Find and compare parking rates and options

SFO Immigration FAQs

US citizens typically clear immigration at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in 8 minutes on average using either Global Entry kiosks or regular passport control. Non-US citizens can expect longer waits of 12-16 minutes depending on the time of arrival.
Yes, San Francisco International Airport has Global Entry kiosks for pre-approved travelers. Global Entry members can clear immigration in as little as 5-10 minutes, compared to the standard 12 minute average wait time.
For immigration at San Francisco International Airport, you'll need: a valid passport with at least 6 months validity, a completed arrival/customs form if required, visa or ESTA (for visa waiver countries entering the US), and any supporting documents for your travel purpose.
Immigration at San Francisco International Airport is busiest when multiple international flights arrive simultaneously, typically: early morning (6:00-9:00 AM) from overnight transatlantic flights, mid-morning (10:00 AM-12:00 PM) from European arrivals, and evening (6:00-10:00 PM) from Pacific/Asian arrivals. Off-peak times see significantly shorter waits.
Planning & Preparation

Immigration & Passport Control Information

Passport control at San Francisco International Airport is managed by CBP (U.S. Customs and Border Protection). Current wait times are estimated at 12 minutes. For faster processing, consider Global Entry or plan your arrival time using our calculator.

USA Citizens

10 min

Global Entry & US Passport holders

Non-USA Citizens

15 min

Foreign passport holders

Unlock Terminal-Specific Data

Get live wait times for each terminal, USA vs Non-USA citizen breakdowns, and minute-by-minute updates. This airport has immigration analytics available.

Upgrade to Premium - $4.99/mo

Planning your arrival at SFO?

Check Complete Queue Times

Report Current Wait Time

Help other travelers by sharing your immigration experience

No recent reports yet. Be the first to share!

Quick Links

Historical
Airport Overview

All wait times, delays, and info

Security Wait Times

TSA/security checkpoint data

10
min
Passport ControlCurrent

Immigration & customs times

12
min
Airport Parking

Compare rates & availability

Airport Map

Location & nearby airports

Traveling Soon?URGENT

Flying in the next 24 hours? Get instant access to more accurate wait times and avoid long lines.

Get Instant Access30-day money-back guarantee

Quick Info

Recommended Arrival
90 min
150 min
Current Wait
12 min
USA Citizens
10 min
Non-USA Citizens
15 min
Peak Hours
  • • 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM
  • • 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • • 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • • Long-haul arrivals
Quick Tips
  • • Consider Global Entry
  • • Use Mobile Passport app
  • • Have documents ready
  • • Complete arrival card early
  • • Know your accommodation
Documents Required
  • Valid passport (6+ months)
  • Visa/ESTA if required
  • Completed arrival card
Fast Track Options
  • • Global Entry
  • • e-Passport gates
  • • Mobile Passport app
Calculate Arrival Time

Quick Links

Airport Overview
Complete airport info & calculator
Security Wait Times
10 min wait
Parking Info
Find & compare rates

Compare Wait Times

SFO12 min
JFK60 minLAX31 min