Customs and Border Protection Issues Travel Advisory for the Holiday Season

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reminds all travelers planning trips out of or into the United States to make sure they have proper documents for their travel and to anticipate increased traffic at international airports and land border crossings during the observance of the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Travelers can take a few simple steps to help CBP facilitate their entry or re-entry into the U.S.

Visitors and returning residents should prepare for the inspection process before arriving at the inspection booth by having their crossing documents available for presentation and by being prepared to declare all items accompanying the traveler. If bringing presents across the border, ensure that any festive wrappings do not obstruct inspection of the items. Simple alternatives are to leave one end open for inspection or wrap the gift item at your final destination.

“The holidays are joyous yet often hectic times for travelers,” stated Devin Chamberlain, Port Director. “Prepared travelers help to reduce wait times allowing us to concentrate on enforcing the laws of the United States and protecting the American people.”

In compliance with full implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative all travelers, including U.S. and Canadian citizens, need to present documentary proof of citizenship. For air travelers this means a Passport. Please visit the WHTI Web site for additional information. ( getyouhome.gov )

Frequent cross-border travelers are encouraged to participate in the NEXUS program, which allows pre-screened, low risk travelers to proceed with little or no delay into the United States and Canada.

Travelers can obtain local border traffic conditions by visiting the CBP travel page (http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/) or the Canada Border Services Agency web site (http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/).  Crossing wait times are updated hourly and posted to these websites.

Source: Department of Homeland Security