Pembina, N.D. - Victoria Day (Monday, May 21) unofficially marks the end of the winter season and, thus the beginning of summer. Border traffic volumes are expected to be greatly increased during this holiday weekend and U.S. Customs and Border Protection is reminding all travelers planning trips across the border into the United States to make sure they have their proper documents.
CBP strongly encourages travelers to obtain a radio frequency identification (RFID)-enabled travel document such as a U.S. Passport Card, Enhanced Driver's License/Enhanced Identification Card or Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry or FAST/EXPRES) to expedite their entry and make crossing the border more efficient.
Additionally, all travelers are reminded of a few simple steps they can employ to cross the border. Plan your trip and allow extra time for crossing the border. Review the "Know Before You Go" tip sheet at the website attached. (cbp.gov ) Wait times for the ports of International Falls, Minnesota and Pembina, North Dakota can be monitored at the website attached.(Wait Times ) Avoid peak travel times when at all possible. The heaviest traffic periods are typically between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
CBP officials continually monitor traffic and border crossing times at area ports of entry and fully staff all inspection lanes during peak periods.
The United States has been and continues to be a welcoming nation. U.S. Customs and Border Protection not only protects U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents in the country but also wants to ensure the safety of our international travelers who come to visit, study and conduct legitimate business in our country.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of U.S. borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.