Preparing to Cross the U.S. Border 

Crossing the U.S. border requires careful preparation, especially with current enforcement policies in place. The primary agencies you will interact with are U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and, in some contexts, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Here is a comprehensive factsheet, guide, and checklist based on procedures as of August 2025.

Factsheet: Key Agencies and Their Roles

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP): This is the agency you will directly interact with at all ports of entry (land, air, and sea). CBP’s mission is to secure the border and facilitate lawful travel and trade. Their officers are responsible for:
  • Inspecting all travelers, including U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and foreign visitors.
  • Verifying your identity and travel documents.
  • Checking for prohibited or restricted items.
  • Determining your admissibility into the United States under immigration law.
  • CBP uses advanced technology, including biometric facial recognition and license plate readers, to streamline and enhance traveler processing.
• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE): While CBP is the face of border enforcement at ports of entry, ICE’s role is primarily focused on enforcement within the interior of the United States. ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) branch is responsible for apprehending, detaining, and removing non-citizens who have violated immigration laws. You typically would not have a direct interaction with ICE officers at a routine border crossing, as their primary function is not to patrol the border itself—that role belongs to the Border Patrol (a component of CBP). However, ICE does collaborate with other law enforcement agencies and may have a presence at certain checkpoints.

Travel Guide: What to Expect and How to Prepare

The current approach to border security emphasizes a multi-pronged strategy that includes:

• Heightened Scrutiny: Expect officers to ask more questions than in the past. Be prepared to clearly and honestly state the purpose of your trip, your intended duration of stay, and your destination.
• Biometric Data Collection: CBP utilizes biometric technology, such as facial comparison, to verify traveler identities. This is part of the “Enhanced Passenger Processing” effort to make travel faster for low-risk individuals while allowing officers to focus on higher-risk cases.
• Targeted Questioning: Officers may ask questions about your employment, family, and social media presence. Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor.
• Vehicle and Personal Item Searches: Be aware that CBP has the authority to search vehicles and personal items. Do not bring any prohibited or restricted items. If a search is conducted, it is best to cooperate and remain silent.

Checklist for a Smooth Border Crossing

This checklist is for travelers to the U.S. and should be adapted based on your specific travel status (U.S. citizen, non-citizen, etc.).

Before You Leave:

• Check Your Documents: Ensure your passport, visa, or other approved travel documents (such as a NEXUS, SENTRI, or Global Entry card) are valid and not expired. For non-U.S. citizens, confirm your visa status and eligibility for entry.
• Know Your Travel Status: If you are not a U.S. citizen, know the details of your visa or travel authorization (e.g., B1/B2 tourist visa, F1 student visa, etc.).
• Review Prohibited and Restricted Items: Do not pack any items on the CBP prohibited list. This includes certain foods, agricultural products, and controlled substances. If you are carrying more than $10,000 in cash, you must declare it.
• Prepare Your Vehicle: If crossing by land, ensure your vehicle meets U.S. emission and safety standards. Clean your car thoroughly, as even dirt on tires can be a red flag for agricultural checks.

At the Port of Entry:

• Have Documents Ready: Have your passport and other required documents out and ready to hand to the officer.
• Declare Everything: Be honest and declare all items you are bringing with you, including gifts, items for resale, and any food items. Failure to declare can result in fines and seizure of goods.
• Answer Questions Honestly: When the officer asks questions, answer truthfully and concisely. Avoid providing more information than is requested.
• Maintain Composure: The inspection process can be stressful, but it’s important to remain calm and respectful at all times.

After You Cross:

• Keep Your Documents Safe: Once you have been admitted, your documents (passport, I-94, etc.) are critical. Keep them in a safe place.
• Be Aware of Your Status: As a non-U.S. citizen, your I-94 form specifies your legal period of stay. Adhering to this is crucial to avoid immigration violations. You can retrieve your I-94 information online from the CBP website.

For immigration encounter safety communications and automated emergency contact notification, the Safely Arrived app provides peace of mind for both travelers and their loved ones, ensuring critical safety information reaches the right people at the right time during your most vulnerable travel moments.

This guide is based on current laws and procedures as of August 2025. Laws and enforcement practices can change. Consult with qualified immigration attorneys for specific legal advice about your situation.