The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency is a branch of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) tasked with protecting the nation’s security and economic prosperity by controlling and monitoring borders. CBP is the world’s largest law enforcement agency responsible for regulating entries into the United States as well as enforcing applicable trade, immigration, and agricultural laws.
At over 300 ports of entry located throughout the United States, CBP officers and inspectors are responsible for admitting international travelers, securing the border, and intercepting contraband while upholding all laws and regulations. Cruise ships, cargo vessels, VIPs, students, and refugees are all subject to inspection before gaining entry through one of these ports. A large part of CBP’s work is collecting taxes, duties and fees due to the United States.
What goes in and out of the United States is strictly monitored and CBP officers inspect luggage and vehicles being brought into the United States as well as goods being exported. They are also responsible for finding prohibited or illegal items such as weapons, drugs, or pornography. If a traveler is found in possession of any of these items, they will be subject to a fine or even arrest.
In order to gain entry into the U.S., travelers must present themselves at the port of entry and their documents must be in order. Depending on their status, they may need a passport and Travel Visa or ESTA, if applicable. They may also be subject to questioning and their luggage may be inspected which can include removing any outer packaging. In the event of any suspicion, CBP may also require additional screening.
When entering the United States, travelers must declare any goods they are bringing in with them. They must also indicate if they are carrying any goods that fall under the Harmonized Tariff System (HTS) and pay the appropriate international duties and taxes. One example of these is the CBP’s Allowance Program which is aimed at providing an easy way to record and report the value of the goods travelers are importing into the United States.
In addition to these duties, the CBP is also tasked with preventing the illegal immigration of people and products into the United States. This is achieved through enhanced technology and intelligence capabilities that CBP officers use to locate and apprehend people attempting to enter the country illegally or bring any contraband.
The United States Customs and Border Protection is committed to protecting the nation’s security and prosperity by ensuring strict enforcement at all ports of entry. From passports and travel visas to HTS duties, travelers must be prepared to provide verifiable and accurate documents when entering the United States. CBP officers are vigilant in upholding the laws to ensure travelers gain entry in a timely and efficient manner while still maintaining the security of the nation.
