When traveling to the United States, most travelers entering by air, land, or sea are required to fill out the Customs Declaration form, officially known as the CBP 6059B Form. This form is a crucial document that aids U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in understanding what you are bringing into the country, helping them maintain security and prevent prohibited items from entering.
Dive Right Into
If you’re using commercial transportation, like an airline or cruise line, you’ll typically receive the Customs Declaration Form during your journey. If by chance you haven’t received one or if you’re entering through a different mode of transport, additional forms are readily available at the US Port of Entry.
The transition to electronic systems like the I-94 Arrival Departure Card has streamlined some processes, but not all travelers can use automated systems for their customs declarations yet. You will need to complete a physical CBP 6059B Form if you are entering the US with most types of visas. However, there are exceptions for:
These individuals can use the Automated Passport Control (APC) Kiosks available at several US airports.
Once you fill out the form accurately, a CBP officer will review it, stamp it, and return it to you. Keep this form handy because you’ll need to submit it at the exit point after collecting your baggage. A crucial reminder here is honesty. Declare everything you are carrying to avoid any potential hassles or violations—failure to do so can lead to penalties or even seizure of undeclared items.
Filling out government paperwork can be daunting, but it’s straightforward once you understand what each field requires. Here’s a quick guide to help you accurately complete the Customs Declaration Form:
1. Family Name:
2. First (Given) Name:
3. Birth Date:
4. Number of Family Members Traveling with You:
5. U.S. Street Address (Hotel/Destination):
6. City and State:
7. Passport Issued by:
8. Passport Number:
9. Country of Residence:
10. Countries Visited on This Trip Prior to U.S. Arrival:
11. Airline/Flight No or Vessel Name:
12. The Primary Purpose of This Trip is Business:
13. I/We are Bringing:
14. I Have Been in Close Proximity of Livestock:
15. Carrying Currency:
16. Commercial Merchandise:
17. Declaration of Value of Goods:
This section requires you to list all items you declared in question 17, provide a detailed description, and their individual values. Sum up the total value of all items to ensure consistency with what you reported on the front side.
Remember, honesty and accuracy are crucial when filling out this form to avoid any potential issues at customs.
Answer: When traveling with family members who have different last names or are documented across multiple passports, you should fill out a separate customs declaration form for each passport. In the field that asks for the number of family members traveling with you, count only those who are included under the same passport or who share the same family name in their documents, and are physically traveling with you.
Answer: The value you declare for the items you’re bringing should reflect their total purchase price in U.S. dollars. This includes gifts, souvenirs, or any goods you’re bringing into the U.S. that have not been used. If you’re unsure about the exact price, provide a fair and reasonable estimate based on what you paid. If the items were gifts and you do not know their cost, estimate their retail value in the country where they were purchased.
Answer: If you realize you’ve made a mistake on your customs declaration form, don’t panic. Notify a customs officer or agent as soon as possible before passing through customs. They can assist you in making the necessary corrections. It is important to correct any inaccuracies before your items are inspected to avoid potential penalties or accusations of false declaration.
Answer: You can bring certain food items into the U.S., but they must be declared on your customs form. All food products, whether commercially packaged or homemade, fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products must be declared. The Agriculture section of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will inspect these items and determine if they are admissible according to U.S. regulations. Declare all such items under the question asking if you are bringing fruits, vegetables, meats, etc. Being thorough and upfront with your declarations will help avoid possible fines and delays.
Answer: If you are carrying currency or monetary instruments that exceed $10,000 USD, you must declare this on your customs form by checking “Yes” in the appropriate field. This includes a combined total of cash, travelers’ checks, money orders, and negotiable instruments or investment securities in bearer form. Upon declaration, you may be asked to fill out Form FinCEN 105 with further details. Note that there is no tax or duty on currency, but it is vital to comply with this declaration requirement to avoid legal penalties.
Filling out the Customs Declaration form may seem like just another step in the long process of travel. However, it plays a vital role in maintaining the safety and security of U.S. borders. For additional information on the Customs Declaration process at the U.S. ports of entry, you can visit the official CBP website. Here you’ll find more detailed instructions and all necessary resources to help ensure your entry into the United States is as smooth as possible. Remember, when in doubt, declare it! Honest declarations go a long way in ensuring a hassle-free entry.
When entering the US by air, land, or sea, travelers must complete the Customs Declaration form (CBP Form 6059B). Visitors with visas, except some categories, need to fill it manually. Remember, honesty is key. Declare all items to avoid issues. Follow a few simple steps to complete the form accurately for a smooth entry.
— By VisaVerge.com
Read more:
