How to declare customs when entering the US: 3 tips for a quick process.

For first-time visitors to the U.S., many Vietnamese worry about how to fill out customs , what questions they might be asked, and what documents they need to prepare to avoid problems. In reality, the customs process is simpler than you might think if you understand and follow the correct procedures. This article will guide you through the customs declaration process upon arrival in the U.S., step-by-step, easy to understand, helping you confidently answer CBP officers' questions, complete the procedure quickly and efficiently, and start your trip smoothly and stress-free.

Tip 1: How to fill out the US customs declaration form accurately and quickly.

Step 1: Prepare and bring your passport when entering the United States.

A passport is required when going through US customs.

• When entering the United States, a valid passport is a prerequisite for entry into the country.

• Whether you are a tourist, student, worker, or U.S. permanent resident (green card holder) , you must present your passport at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) checkpoint.

• CBP officers will check the information on your passport and compare it with your customs declaration form, so you need to have your passport ready throughout the process.

How to properly carry your passport to avoid problems at US customs.

• Always keep your passport in your carry-on luggage or personal bag , never in checked baggage.

• Keep your passport in an easily accessible location for convenience when filling out customs forms and answering questions about U.S. entry .

• Check your passport's expiration date before your flight to ensure it is valid for entry requirements.

Absolutely do not attempt to go through US customs without your passport.

• Without a passport, CBP will deny you entry into the United States , even if you have a valid visa.

• In case you lose your passport while traveling , go immediately to the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for assistance in obtaining a replacement.

• Taking prompt action will help you avoid prolonged stays at the airport or unnecessary legal trouble.

Step 2: Receive and fill out the customs declaration form upon entering the United States.

Get your customs declaration form right on the plane or train.

• Before landing or arriving at a destination, flight attendants will distribute U.S. customs declaration forms to passengers.

• Both U.S. citizens and foreigners must complete this procedure, so be sure to proactively obtain the form.

• Each family only needs to fill out one form ; there's no need to fill out separate forms for each person if they're traveling as a family.

Identifying the correct US customs declaration form.

• The application form is usually a small, rectangular, blue paper card .

• Above it is the easily recognizable phrase "Customs Declaration" .

• If you haven't received them, you should ask the flight attendant directly to avoid missing any documents when going through immigration.

Cases where a paper form is not required.

• Currently, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has deployed Automated Passport Control (APC) systems at many major airports.

• US and Canadian citizens, and certain international visitors who are exempt from visa requirements, can use the APC.

• When using APC, you don't need to fill out a paper customs declaration form ; instead, you declare directly on the electronic machine following the instructions.

Step 3: How to fill out the US customs declaration form correctly and quickly

Fill in your personal and trip information completely.

• Use a bold ink pen (blue or black) and write clearly and legibly on the U.S. customs declaration form.

• The basic information that needs to be filled in includes:

  • Full name

  • Country of residence

  • Passport number

  • Flight number

  • Countries traveled through before entering the United States

• You should compare the information directly with your passport and airline ticket to avoid making mistakes.

Ensure the information is absolutely accurate.

• All information on the application form must match your passport and entry documents .

• Incorrect, incomplete, or illegible information may require CBP officers to re-check, leading to additional delays during U.S. customs clearance .

• If you're unsure, double-check before submitting, instead of guessing.

Note on cases where a customs declaration form is required and not required.

• The US customs declaration form only applies to those entering the country by plane or sea .

• If you enter the United States by land , you do not need to fill out a paper declaration form.

• However, U.S. Border Patrol agents will still:

  • Check your luggage.

  • Ask a few short questions related to the purpose of entry and the items you are bringing with you.

Step 4: Estimate the value of goods that need to be declared when entering the United States.

Clearly identify the items that must be declared to U.S. customs.

• On the customs declaration form, you will answer Yes/No questions related to your luggage.

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers are particularly interested if you are carrying:

  • Fruits, vegetables, fresh meat or food

  • large amount of cash

  • Commercial goods

  • Have had prior contact with livestock or farms?

• The declaration form also requires you to calculate the total commercial value of all goods purchased abroad and brought into the United States.

How to calculate the value of goods for US citizens.

• If you are a U.S. citizen , please estimate the total value of all goods purchased while abroad .

• This includes any gifts brought along , even those not yet mailed.

• You don't need to declare items you've used up before boarding the plane , such as cosmetics and personal care products.

How to calculate the value of goods for foreign customers.

• If you are a tourist, student, or worker , calculate the total commercial value of the items you plan to leave behind in the United States .

• There's no need to count personal items that will be brought back home , such as clothes, laptops, and personal phones.

• The declared value should be based on the actual purchase price ; it doesn't need to be overly detailed in terms of conversion, but it must be reasonable.

Why is it necessary to truthfully declare the value of goods?

• Providing accurate declarations will help expedite the customs clearance process when entering the United States .

• Underreporting or providing incorrect values ​​may result in additional checks, administrative fines, or detention for further explanation.

• Safety principle: if you're unsure, you should still fill it out ; CBP will provide further guidance if needed.

Step 5: List the items to declare on the back of the US customs declaration form.

List all items that need to be declared.

• On the back of the declaration form, you need to clearly list all items that are subject to declaration .

• These items are the ones included in the total value of the goods declared on the customs declaration, including:

  • Gifts to bring into the US

  • Goods purchased abroad

  • Duty-free goods

  • Goods brought along for sale

  • Inherited assets

  • Items that were repaired overseas and then brought back to the US.

Declare cash and other valuable assets.

• In addition to goods, you also need to clearly list the cash you are bringing with you , for example:

  • Cash

  • Tourist visa

  • Money transfer, money order

  • Gold, gold coins, or equivalent assets.

• Declaring cash upon entering the United States is a mandatory requirement for financial control and security purposes.

Provide accurate information to expedite the process.

• Please provide as accurate and clear information as possible to ensure an uninterrupted inspection process at the CBP border crossing.

• Providing incomplete or vague information may lead to further questioning, more thorough baggage checks, or wasted time explaining yourself.

Why does CBP need detailed declaration lists?

• The declaration list is used for tax and national security purposes .

• U.S. customs officials need to know exactly what you're bringing into the country to assess the risk and apply the appropriate regulations.

• The key principle when declaring goods to US customs is: honesty, clarity, and no speculation .

Tip 2: Secrets to getting through US passport control without trouble

Step 1: Proceed to the correct passport control lane when entering the United States.

Follow the signs to the passport control area.

• After disembarking, you will walk through a short corridor leading to the first checkpoint of U.S. customs .

• Signs on the walls or ceiling will direct you to passport control ; follow the signs and do not leave the group.

• This procedure applies to all passengers entering the United States by air.

Line up correctly at the check-in counter.

• At the passport control area, you need to choose the correct line lane , which usually includes:

  • This lane is for U.S. citizens and permanent residents.

  • Lane for foreigners

• Standing in the wrong lane can force you to rejoin the queue from the beginning, wasting unnecessary time.

Ask proactively when you are unsure.

• If you are unsure which lane to take, you should ask the CBP officer directing traffic directly .

• Avoid standing around or walking around the inspection area for too long, as you may be warned or subjected to further inspection.

Please note if there is a connecting flight.

• At some major airports, you may find separate lanes for transit passengers or those with connecting flights .

• If you need to continue your domestic or international flight, use this lane when permitted to shorten your check-in time.

• This is a way to expedite the US immigration and customs clearance process , especially when transit times are tight.

Step 2: Present your passport and customs declaration form to the CBP officer.

Submit your passport and customs declaration form at the inspection counter.

• When it's your turn, you need to present your passport and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer.

• The staff will:

  • Check the information on your passport.

  • Scan your passport to verify its validity.

  • Compare and verify the contents of the customs declaration.

• This step is quick and simple , provided you provide complete and accurate information.

Double-check your documents before leaving the counter.

• After processing, the CBP officer will return your passport and customs declaration form to you.

• Before leaving, double-check to make sure you've received all your documents back , to avoid having to go back and queue again.

Important notes regarding Form I-94 for foreigners.

• For international passengers , CBP can print the I-94 form and staple it to their passport.

• Form I-94 is a document confirming the date and status of entry into the United States , and it is very important from a legal standpoint.

• You need to keep your I-94 safe throughout your time in the United States because:

  • May be required upon departure.

  • Used for visa renewal, status change, or other immigration procedures.

Step 3: Answer questions from CBP officers upon entering the United States.

Answer directly and concisely, without going into too much detail.

• During immigration procedures, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers will ask a few short questions about your trip .

• You don't need to give lengthy explanations , but you should answer truthfully, clearly, and consistently .

• The main purpose is for CBP to verify that you entered the country under the correct visa category and for the stated purpose .

Frequently Asked Questions When Entering the United States

• What is your reason for coming to the US (tourism, visiting relatives, business, studying, etc.)?

• How long do you plan to stay in the US?

• Where will you be staying (relatives' address, hotel, dormitory, etc.)?

• In some cases, CBP may ask for additional information about:

  • Current job

  • Plan of operations in the United States

A simple and safe way to answer.

• Just answer briefly, for example:

  • "I'm traveling."

  • "I'm visiting relatives."

• Avoid making assumptions, giving vague answers, or providing information that is inaccurate in your visa application.

Attitude when dealing with US customs officers

• CBP officers are performing their national security duties, not causing personal harm.

• Maintain a calm, polite, and cooperative attitude, and the inspection process will usually go faster.

Documents you should bring to assist with your entry process.

• If you are a foreign visitor , it will be very helpful to bring documents proving the purpose of your trip, such as:

  • An invitation or email from the company or school.

  • Confirm hotel booking

  • Information about relatives or sponsors in the United States

• These documents help increase credibility when answering CBP questions , especially if further questions are asked.

Step 4: Provide fingerprints and have your photo taken upon entry into the United States (for foreign visitors).

Who is required to take biometric data?

• All foreign nationals entering the United States must provide fingerprints and a photograph to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) biometric system.

• This is a mandatory procedure, applicable to most visa categories, and is not a random check.

Fingerprinting procedure at the CBP counter

• The CBP officer will push a small electronic board towards you.

• You just need to:

  • Place your fingers on the scanning board as instructed.

  • Hold still for a few seconds to allow the system to register your fingerprint.

• This procedure is very quick and causes no pain or discomfort.

Taking identification photos upon entry into the United States.

• After having your fingerprints taken, you will have your photo taken directly at the verification counter .

• This photo is used for identity verification and is stored in the U.S. immigration management system.

An important note that many people often misunderstand.

• Even if you submitted a photo when applying for a US visa , you will still need to have your photo taken again at the port of entry.

• These are two completely different procedures, serving the purposes of immigration control and security .

Ways to expedite the process

• Follow the step-by-step instructions from the CBP officer ; there's no need to worry.

• Maintain a cooperative and calm attitude, and do not perform any actions without being instructed to do so.

Experience 3: Guide to safely retrieving luggage and clearing customs in the US.

Step 1: Collect your luggage at the baggage claim area after entering the United States.

Follow the signs to the baggage claim area.

• After completing passport and customs checks, proceed down the corridor to the baggage claim area .

• The signs in the airport will direct you to the correct area; just follow them and don't turn off the main road.

• This procedure applies to all passengers entering the United States, regardless of their next destination.

Always collect your luggage, even if you have a connecting flight.

• Whether you have a domestic or international connecting flight , you are required to collect your luggage at the first airport you enter the United States .

• This is a general rule in the customs procedure when entering the United States and cannot be ignored.

• After collecting your luggage and completing customs procedures, you will check it in for your next flight .

How to identify the correct baggage conveyor belt

• At the baggage claim area, check the electronic screen for the following information:

  • Flight number

  • Number of conveyor belts (carousels)

• Then stand and wait at the correct conveyor belt until your luggage appears.

Important note if you have a connecting flight

• Since you'll need to retrieve and re-check your luggage, you should allow sufficient time for your connecting flight , especially at major airports.

• After checking in your luggage, you will still need to go through security again before boarding your next flight.

In the case of entering the US by train or bus.

• If you travel by sea or bus , you must also collect your luggage for CBP inspection .

• On buses, after US customs checks are complete, staff will arrange for luggage to be returned to the bus so the journey can continue.

Step 2: Bring your luggage to the correct customs lane to complete the US immigration procedures.

Move from the baggage claim area to the customs checkpoint.

• After collecting all your luggage, continue pushing your luggage cart down the corridor leading to the U.S. customs inspection area .

• This area is the final security checkpoint before you officially leave the airport.

Distinguishing between two customs lanes when entering the US.

• At the customs area, you will see two distinct lanes :

  • The "Nothing to declare" lane – green arrow : for people who are not carrying goods that need to be declared .

  • The "Goods to declare" lane – red arrow : for people with goods, money, or items that are subject to declaration .

How to choose the right lane to avoid trouble.

• Based on the U.S. customs declaration form you completed, decide which lane to stand in.

• If you are still unsure, the safety principle is to choose the lane with the declaration form ; CBP officers will provide further guidance if necessary.

• Intentionally entering the faster lane when there is cargo to be declared can result in you being stopped for a thorough inspection, or even fined .

Why choosing the right customs lane is so important

• Choosing the right lane helps the customs clearance process go faster and smoother .

• Choosing the wrong route or intentionally taking a different route can waste your time, lead to further questioning, or result in more detailed baggage checks.

Step 3: Submit the customs declaration and respond to the final inspection.

Give the customs declaration form to the CBP officer.

• After selecting the correct customs lane, you will proceed to the next checkpoint .

• Please present your completed U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer.

• Before your turn, double-check the information on the form to ensure there are no missing or incorrect details.

Frequently Asked Questions at Customs Checkpoints

• CBP officers typically ask brief questions about:

  • Where did you go on the trip?

  • What did you buy or bring?

• Their purpose was to test:

  • Goods that are on the restricted or prohibited list

  • Undeclared goods

  • The item shows signs of violating U.S. customs regulations.

How to answer questions to get through customs quickly.

• Answer specifically, directly, and immediately , without beating around the bush.

• The response should match the customs declaration and the actual luggage.

• For example, clearly state the type of item and its intended use, avoiding vague phrases like "miscellaneous purchases" or "personal items."

Why should you avoid slow or vague responses?

• Giving an unclear answer may cause CBP officers to:

  • Doubtful information

  • Ask more detailed questions.

  • We'll move you to a more thorough baggage check.

• Conversely, providing clear answers helps to complete customs procedures when entering the United States quickly and smoothly .

Step 4: Cooperate if selected for random inspection at U.S. customs.

Understanding CBP's Randomized Inspections Correctly

• In some cases, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may select you from the line for a more thorough inspection .

• This is a random check , not personalized or targeted at you.

• This is a normal part of the security screening process when entering the United States .

What can happen when subjected to further inspection?

• CBP officers can:

  • Open luggage for manual inspection.

  • Baggage inspection using X-ray machine.

  • Ask some additional questions related to the trip and the goods you're bringing.

• This process is usually quick if your luggage and declarations are clear and truthful.

The right way to behave helps things go smoothly.

• Please listen to and follow the instructions of the CBP officer .

• Proactively hand over your luggage for inspection, without showing any signs of annoyance or arguing .

• Showing tension or resistance will only make the examination process longer and more tiring .

Remember these important rules when going through US customs.

• CBP officers are performing their duties to ensure security , not to cause inconvenience to passengers.

• A calm, polite, and cooperative attitude will almost always help you get your matter processed faster.

Step 5: Complete the procedures and continue your journey after passing through US customs.

Leaving the customs area after being given permission to proceed by CBP.

• When U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers signal you to proceed , continue down the corridor to the airport or terminal lobby .

• If this is your final destination , you can leave the airport and begin your trip in the United States.

In case there is a connecting flight

• If you need to take a connecting flight, look for signs that say "Connecting flights" or "Connecting baggage drop-off" .

• Place your luggage back on the conveyor belt for transfer to your next flight.

• This is a mandatory step in the US immigration process , even if the airline has already tagged your luggage.

Check your luggage tag before checking it in.

• Before placing your luggage on the conveyor belt, please confirm that the baggage tag correctly states your next destination .

• If you discover any discrepancies, you should immediately report them to airport staff to avoid losing your luggage.

Going through security checks before entering the airport area.

• After checking in your luggage, you must go through another security checkpoint to enter the boarding area.

• This process is similar to a standard security check at a US airport.

Please note the restrictions on liquids and items.

• All liquids, gels, and aerosols over 3 oz (approximately 85 g) must be placed in checked baggage ; carry-on baggage is not permitted.

• Additionally, you must fully comply with TSA regulations regarding restricted items to avoid being held for inspection.

Important tips to help you get through US customs quickly and safely.

Understand the tax exemptions when entering the United States.

• Depending on the country of origin, some individuals may be eligible for tax exemptions on goods valued at up to $1,600 .

• However, foreign visitors entering the US are only entitled to a tax-free allowance of up to $100 , so special attention should be paid when shopping.

• If you exceed this amount, you must declare it and may be subject to customs duties as per U.S. customs regulations.

Stay calm when going through customs.

• There is no reason to be tense at checkpoints.

• Simply answering clearly, honestly, and consistently will prevent most problems.

• A polite and cooperative attitude usually helps the process go faster.

Cases where individuals are detained for further examination.

• If detained, CBP officers will take you to a separate room for further questioning.

• The inspection time may be lengthy, depending on the individual case.

• After that, you will either be granted entry or denied entry and sent back to your point of origin .

• This is a normal legal process and doesn't always mean a violation.

Follow the instructions at the passport control area.

• There is usually a CBP officer at the front of the passport check line to direct you to the next available counter.

• The counters are clearly numbered , making it easy for you to locate them.

• The area is designed simply, making it unlikely to get lost .

No need to worry about getting lost in the US customs area.

• The infrastructure at US airports is designed to be clear, logical, and efficient .

• If you're confused, just read the signs or ask a staff member , and you'll get immediate directions.

Case of pre-checking at a foreign airport (US Preclearance)

• Many airports in Canada and several other countries have pre-entry screening areas for US citizens .

• The process is similar to US customs.

• When you arrive in the US, you go straight to the baggage claim area ; there's no need to go through immigration again.

Prepare some basic information in advance to answer quickly.

• Remember or prepare in advance:

  • Departure day - return day

  • Accommodation address

  • Purpose of the trip

• This helps you answer quickly and clearly when CBP asks questions .

Be patient while queuing at customs.

• Customs queues can sometimes be long and slow , especially during peak hours.

• Staying calm and patient will help you avoid unnecessary fatigue.

Be aware of prohibited or restricted items.

• The following product categories are often subject to strict controls:

  • Raw fruits and vegetables

  • Meat and animal products

  • Goods from a country under US sanctions.

  • large amount of cash

• If you're unsure, you should admit it ; you shouldn't hide it.

Carefully check your belongings before leaving the customs area.

• After leaving the baggage claim and customs area, you are not allowed to return .

• Make sure you have packed all your luggage and personal belongings .

Absolutely avoid joking about illegal activities.

• No jokes about violence, smuggling, terrorism, or illegal activities .

• CBP is obligated to take these statements seriously.

Comply with security regulations at U.S. entry points.

• Photography, smoking, and the use of mobile phones are prohibited in the customs and immigration area.

• This is a high-security federal area ; any violation can be prosecuted.

References

1. https://www.cbp.gov/travel/clearing-cbp/traveler-entry-form
2. https://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/2024-07/
   cbp_form_6059b_english_0.pdf
3. https://www.portseattle.org/services-amenities/
   international-arrivals-and-passport-control
4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHt2xnXk8AI&feature=youtu.be&t=128
5. https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home
6. https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-go/
   what-expect-when-you-return
7. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHt2xnXk8AI&feature=youtu.be&t=138
8. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHt2xnXk8AI&feature=youtu.be&t=217
   
9. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHt2xnXk8AI&feature=youtu.be&t=223
10. https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all
11. https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/
    know-before-you-visit/customs-duty-information

Translated by Leigh Kennedy Ly .