WASHINGTON — International travel this holiday season is expected to reach pre-pandemic levels, making preparation even more important. To make the travel experience easier, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will host a Facebook Live event Monday at 2 p.m.
During the event, a panel of experts from CBP’s Office of Field Operations will provide live answers to CBP-related travel questions. Topics will include travel tips to enhance the travel experience, including:
1. Prepare your documents. Before embarking on a trip to the United States or returning from international travel, travelers have the following:
A valid US passport and identification card. Be prepared to present any other documents requested by the CBP officer. Although a Global Entry card is not required, trusted travelers are encouraged to carry their cards with them in case they are requested.
2. Facial biometry. Travelers should be prepared to have their photo taken by a CBP officer during the enhanced inspections process at the gate. Known as Simplified Arrival, travelers now have their identity verified through a secure, contactless facial biometric process that further secures and expedites travel and entry into the United States. The biometric facial matching process only takes seconds and is more than 98 percent accurate while protecting travelers’ privacy. US citizens can voluntarily participate in the facial biometric process, but the process is mandatory for most non-US citizens. More information about CBP’s use of facial biometrics and the opt-out process for U.S. citizens can be found here.
3. Research your destination. US citizens planning to travel outside of the United States during the holidays should visit www.state.gov/travelers for information on international destinations. Each country has its own security and COVI.D-19 restrictions, so researching this information in advance will make the travel experience easier.
4. Mobile applications. Travelers are encouraged to use CBP’s free mobile apps, which will help reduce wait times. US citizens and Canadian B1/B2 visitors can download Mobile Passport Control to submit their passport and travel information using a mobile device to have their information available for future international travel. Additionally, non-US citizens traveling to or seeking entry to the United States can download the CBP One mobile app to apply for an I-94 up to seven days before travel. CBP One can also be used to provide advanced notification if travelers require an agricultural and biological product inspection upon arrival at an airport in the United States. Categories for the statement will include:
Biological materials that may require permits issued by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
· Pets, specifically birds and dogs, accompanying travelers in various capacities that have the potential to introduce foreign animal diseases into the US or other public health concerns
· Cleaning and disinfection of footwear
hunting trophies
Both apps can be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
5. Prepare your ESTA or I-94. Although having an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization is not a requirement to enter the United States through a land border, citizens and nationals of the Visa Waiver Program country must have an active ESTA to use the Application feature. CBP One I-94. CBP encourages these travelers to obtain an approved ESTA to take advantage of the time savings offered by using CBP One or the CBP I-94 website. With an ESTA, these travelers can apply for their I-94 prior to arrival and avoid completing Form I-94W at a port of entry.
6. Report your food, cash and souvenirs. Both US citizens and non-citizens must report anything brought into the United States from abroad, even if purchased at a duty-free store. Some items, such as ivory, tortoiseshell products, and certain foods and plants are prohibited in the United States. Visit the US Department of Agriculture website for more information. Some food, merchandise, and currency totaling $10,000 or more may be brought into the United States, but must be declared on a US CBP Customs form. Failure to do so may result in severe financial penalties and loss of property. their possessions.
7. Avoid fakes. Be careful when buying from street vendors or other illegitimate shops during the holidays. These items often support criminal activity, violate intellectual property rights, and can be dangerous to consumers. You can find more information about intellectual property rights here. Please note that CBP officers may search you and your belongings without a warrant.
8. Consider tax breaks. Items brought abroad for personal use or as gifts are eligible for tax exemptions. If you bring them in for resale, they are not eligible for tax exemption. You can find more information about tax exemptions here.
9. Consider your medications. Be aware of traveling with medication. Many drugs manufactured abroad are not approved for use in the United States and are not allowed in the country. When traveling abroad, take only the medications you will need and make sure they are in the original container.
The CBP Facebook Live event is open to the public. For more information on CBP’s international travel efforts, follow CBP on Twitter or visit the CBP website.
Source: news.google.com