If you travel frequently, you know how frustrating a long customs line can be after an even longer flight. Use these tips to ensure your customs inspection is quick and easy.
Mobile Passport app
Launched in 2014, Mobile Passport was the first app authorized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). If you are an eligible traveler, you can simply download the app and submit your passport and trip information via your smartphone once you land. Once submitted, you will receive a QR code that is scanned by the CBP officer who will verify the information and finalize your inspection. Mobile Passport users are eligible to use an expedited line and often spend less time with a CBP officer.
Self-serve kiosks
Automated Passport Control (APC) expedites the customs process, as it eliminates the paper declarations form and uses self-serve kiosks instead. If these are available at your destination airport, you’ll certainly save time by using one. You’ll simply submit your information and a photo via the kiosk and are then issued a receipt. That receipt is given to a CBP officer who finalizes your inspection.
Get Global Entry
If you travel internationally often, applying for Global Entry is definitely worth your while. After going through an interview process and submitting an application fee, you’ll be eligible to use the Global Entry kiosk at customs using your fingerprint to identify yourself. With Global Entry, you’ll only be required to answer a few questions before you’re off to baggage claim. If you decide to apply for Global Entry, be sure to check with your credit card company, as some offer reimbursem*nts for the application fee.
Declare everything
When going through customs, you’ll be asked to declare anything you acquired during your trip, including purchased items and gifts. If you do any shopping on your trip, be sure to save your receipts in a safe place to make this process easier.
Don’t pack food items
As much as you may want to bring some tasty international delicacies to friends and family back home, many countries have restrictions on what can come in, and are particularly strict when it comes to produce and meat. Packing these items will definitely slow you down when going through customs.
As a general rule of thumb, try not to plan international travel too close to any big meetings you have just in case passing through customs takes a little longer than you expected.
Do you travel internationally often? What tips have helped you get through customs faster? Let us know in the comments section below and be sure to contact us with any questions!
FAQs
Choosing a seat near the front will help you avoid the queues.
- Fill out the forms fast. You do not need to write quickly but you should try and fill out all customs or immigration control forms as soon as possible. ...
- Take the stairs, not the elevator. People love the comfort of elevators. ...
- Have your documents ready.
Answer loudly, clearly, and briefly. Don't think for a long time before you answer. Sometimes the questions just require “yes” or “no” as an answer. Also, remember that you should have all necessary documents ready (visa, work permit, birth certificate, etc.)
What is the app that helps you get through customs faster? ›
Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is an official application created by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that streamlines your CBP processing experience at select U.S. entry locations.
What questions do they ask you when going through immigration and customs at the airport? ›
Prepare for Likely Questions From U.S. CBP Officials
- Why are you visiting the United States? ...
- Where will you be staying? ...
- Who will you be visiting? ...
- How long will you be staying in the U.S.? If you're coming in with an immigrant visa (have been approved for U.S. permanent residence), you won't likely be asked this.
Apply for Global Entry
Global Entry is everything that TSA PreCheck is and more. If you have Global Entry, you'll automatically also get TSA PreCheck and all of its benefits. On top of that, you'll get to avoid the general customs line when returning to the U.S. from abroad.
Can you pay to get through customs faster? ›
Global Entry: $100 (includes TSA PreCheck)
This program refers to the Known Traveler Number as PASSID, but the number is used the same way. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck and its benefits but also gives you expedited U.S. customs screening when traveling internationally.
What do customs agents look for? ›
Generally, customs officers may stop people at the border to determine whether they are admissible to the United States, and they may search people's belongings for contraband. This is true even if there is nothing suspicious about you or your luggage.
What is question 15 on US Customs form? ›
15. If you are a US resident, print the total value of all goods (including commercial merchandise) you or any family members traveling with you have purchased or acquired abroad (including gifts for someone else, but not items mailed to the United States) and are bringing into the United States.
Can you refuse to answer CBP questions? ›
1. You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions asked by immigration officers if you do not want to answer them. This includes questions about your citizenship status, birthplace or place of residence.
Is 2 hours enough to get through customs? ›
Allow enough time: Customs can be time-consuming, especially during peak travel periods. Make sure you allow enough time to clear customs and get to your connecting flight. As a general rule, it's best to allow at least two hours for international layovers.
The bad news is that the time it takes can vary wildly depending on which airport you travel through and when you land. Customs will take a lot longer if a bunch of flights all land at the same time, but, on average, it takes about 20 minutes or less to get through customs.
How long does it usually take to clear customs? ›
Customs clearance is the act of moving goods through customs, so they can enter the country. How long does custom clearance take? Typically, a customs clearance takes less than 24 hours. If your paperwork is lacking, however, it could take several days before your shipment clears customs.
What to expect going through customs for the first time? ›
Officials will review your required passenger travel documents, such as passport, visa, green card, disembarkation card (provided by flight attendant during flight), immunization documentation, letters of confirmation or support, etc.
