MIAMI— U.S. Customs and Border Protection is reminding summer travelers across Florida of important tips to ease the entry process for both returning residents and international visitors.
Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons and CBP has implemented a number of programs and initiatives like Global Entry to help process travelers as efficiently as possible while maintaining the security of our nation. If you are traveling internationally this summer, it can help to know travel regulations before you go.
Trusted Traveler programs like Global Entry, SENTRI and NEXUS remain the fastest and easiest way to expedite travelers into the United States. Additionally, by automating forms like the I-94 for visa travelers and piloting new technologies like self-service kiosks such as Automated Passport Control, CBP is working to transform the passenger processing environment to expedite the entry of all travelers.
Advances in technology and innovation are enhancing the travelers’ experience and expediting entry at ports of entry with CBP’s resource optimization strategy transforming the way CBP does business in land, air and sea environments.
“We’re committed to improving the traveler experience and facilitating legitimate trade and travel,” said Acting Director Miami/Tampa Field Office Allison Suliveras. “When travelers know what to expect before arriving it streamlines the process and they’re able to travel safe and smart.”
Additional steps travelers can take to smooth the arrivals process include being prepared and educated on U.S. rules and regulations. Travelers should familiarize themselves with regulations before departing to avoid potential penalties and fines.
Top Travel Tips
The CBP site has been completely redesigned to help users quickly access the content they need. It also is optimized for access by smartphones and makes use of a new content delivery network that will improve access internationally.
Restricted or Prohibited? Know what merchandise you can bring to the U.S.
Can I bring it? - Don't pack a pest!
Many agriculture products can bring damaging pests and diseases into the country, check to see what may be harmful.
Keep travel documents handy
Make sure each passenger has the correct travel document accessible and ready to give to the CBP officer. If you are a frequent international traveler and have not already become a member of a trusted traveler program, sign up now. For more information, please visit CBP’s Trusted Traveler section.
Know what food products can be imported
Many fruits, meats, dairy and poultry products are prohibited from being imported into the United States from Canada. For more information, view prohibited and restricted items.
Know what ports of entry have lighter traffic or use an alternate to spend less time getting to and from your vacation! During periods of heavy travel, border crossers may wish to consider traveling outside of peak times which normally occur between the hours of 9am and 5pm.
Our dual mission is to facilitate travel in the United States while we secure our borders, our people and our visitors from those that would do us harm like terrorists and terrorist weapons, criminals and contraband.
For more information on international traveling into the United States visit CBP’s Travel section.