San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) introduced Gateside by TSA PreCheck on October 2. Eligible visitors can enter the post-security terminals without a flight ticket after receiving a separate visit approval. Access is conditional, so an airport visit alone is not enough. See SJC’s official guidance.
Timing and local conditions
The pass can help with gate farewells or a meal together inside the terminal. It does not allow you to board a flight.
| Item | SJC guidance |
|---|---|
| Start date | October 2, 2026 |
| Application window | 1–3 days before the visit |
| Pass cost | No additional charge |
| Validity | Approved calendar day; same-day re-entry allowed |
| Daily limit | 75 passes per security checkpoint |
| Entry | Terminal A or B PreCheck lanes; not Touchless ID lanes |
SJC does not validate parking for these visits. Check the airport parking page if you need a parking space.
Eligibility for Korean travelers
TSA says the program also covers people eligible for PreCheck screening through other trusted traveler programs. TSA eligibility guidance
CBP includes enrolled Global Entry citizens of partner countries among eligible PreCheck users. South Korea appears on its Global Entry eligibility list. Korean travelers who already hold Global Entry can check their PreCheck eligibility and membership number before applying for Gateside. A Korean passport or ESTA alone does not provide this eligibility.
Membership eligibility does not guarantee a Gateside approval. Check the decision before traveling to the airport. For a family visit, review each person’s eligibility and registration requirements; TSA says children must be included on their parent or guardian’s reservation.
Approval and ID checks
Use the official TSA application link and a login.gov account. Check approval in the portal, and bring TSA-acceptable ID. Officers may also ask to see the live dashboard on your phone. Screenshots or printouts of an approval are not accepted. TSA’s verification guidance
These checks may save an unnecessary trip:
| Check | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Before visiting | Confirm the airport, date and approval status |
| Before the checkpoint | Make sure you can log in on your phone |
| Children | Confirm they appear on the approved registration |
| Meeting point | Check the other person’s terminal, gate and accessible meeting area |
Visitors undergo the same security screening as passengers. Access may be limited at busy times. SJC restricts Gateside visits to non-commercial purposes and asks media to contact its team about filming.
Official sources and check date
Checked October 5, 2026. SJC specifies an October 2 start but does not display a separate announcement date. Other airports may use different local conditions.
- SJC — Gateside operating conditions
- TSA — Eligibility, application timing and approval checks
- CBP — TSA PreCheck eligibility
- CBP — Global Entry eligible countries
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