KNOW BEFORE YOU GO (2024)


Tourist Assistance

    • In Mexico you can dial 078 from any phone, where you can find free information about tourist attractions, airports, travel agencies, car rental companies, embassies and consulates, fairs and exhibitions, hotels, hospitals, financial services, migratory and other issues.
      Entry requirements

    • All citizens of the United States must present a valid passport when entering Mexican territory by any means of transportation. There are no exceptions for minors. Stays less than 72 hours within the border area, do not require an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM).
      Tourists

    • U.S. citizens who travel as tourists beyond the “border zone” or enter by air must fill out an Official Entry Immigration Form (FMM), which is provided by commercial airlines or at the Mexican airport of entry.

Merchandise

Currencies and Exchange Rates

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO (2024)

FAQs

What is a KBYG? ›

KBYG - Know Before You Go.

What questions do US customs officers ask? ›

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.

Is the US customs form no longer needed? ›

Do travelers still have to fill out a declaration form? No. Travelers will answer CBP inspection-related questions electronically via their smartphone or tablet. If a traveler has already filled out a CBP declaration form, it can be turned in to a CBP Officer.

What needs to be declared at US customs? ›

Also, anything you bring back that you did not have when you left the United States must be "declared." For example, you would declare alterations made in a foreign country to a suit you already owned, and any gifts you acquired outside the United States.

Can you refuse to answer questions at CBP? ›

Even though you always have the right to remain silent, if you don't answer questions to establish your citizenship, officials may deny you entry to the U.S. or detain you for search and/or questioning. Agents may search any person, the inside of any vehicle, and all passenger belongings.

Can US Customs check your phone? ›

All persons, baggage, and merchandise arriving in, or departing from, the United States are subject to inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This search authority includes all electronic devices crossing our nation's borders.

Do US citizens have to answer customs questions? ›

U.S. citizens have the right to enter the United States, so if you are a U.S. citizen and the officers' questions become intrusive, you can decline to answer those questions, but you should be aware that doing so may result in delay and/or further inspection.

Do I have to declare snacks at customs? ›

Travelers entering the United States must declare all food products on U.S. Customs forms or be subject to significant penalties.

What foods are not allowed through US customs? ›

Prohibited or restricted items may include meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, seeds, soil and products made from animal or plant materials. For generally allowed food items please visit USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.

How do I skip customs in USA? ›

Trusted Traveler Program Enrollment

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Members enter the United States by accessing the Global Entry processing technology at selected airports.

Do I have to declare a purse at customs? ›

You must declare all items you purchased and are carrying with you upon return to the United States, including gifts for other people as well as items you bought for yourself. This includes duty-free items purchased in foreign countries, as well as any merchandise you intend to sell or use in your business.

What should I know before going through customs? ›

Customs Action Steps
  • Complete the Customs Declaration Form while on the flight.
  • Ask questions to your flight attendant or traveling companions as needed.
  • Declare any goods you have with you that might have restrictions, and/or goods you purchased in country when returning to your home country.

Do you have to declare T-shirts at customs? ›

Any personal items, such as clothing, shoes, and accessories, should be declared. This includes items you are wearing or carrying with you.

What do they ask you when you go through customs? ›

Most forms ask the point of exit and entry of your flight, your flight number, and what goods you may be bringing into the country (forms might list prohibited items for the respective country). Complete the Customs Declaration Form while on the flight.

What questions do immigration officer ask? ›

Officers can ask a vast range of questions, but here are some examples:
  • How, where, and when did you meet your spouse?
  • Where did your first date take place?
  • How long did were you with your spouse before getting married?
  • When and where were you married?
  • Did you go on a honeymoon? ...
  • What is your spouse's current job?
May 2, 2024

What do they check at US customs? ›

The CBP officers are authorized to ask you questions about your trip and your personal background, including: Your citizenship. The nature of your trip. Anything you are bringing back to the United States that you did not have when you left.

How do I prepare for a US customs audit? ›

Before CBP arrives
  1. Create a flow chart for imports.
  2. Assemble a response team.
  3. Know the common pitfalls of importing.
  4. Have a third party conduct a mock audit of your import process.
  5. Correct compliance issues.

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