When returning to the U.S. What do you have to declare?

Returning to the U.S.: What to Declare

When re-entering the United States after traveling abroad, travelers are required to declare all foreign purchases, regardless of their intended use. This includes items intended for personal use, gifts, or business purposes. Gifts received abroad are also subject to declaration.

The purpose of this declaration is to ensure that travelers are not bringing prohibited items into the country and to collect any applicable duties or taxes.

What to Declare

Travelers must declare all items acquired abroad, including:

• Merchandise: Any goods purchased or acquired abroad, including clothing, electronics, jewelry, and souvenirs.
• Gifts: Gifts received abroad, regardless of their value.
• Currency: Any foreign or U.S. currency in excess of $10,000.
• Alcohol and Tobacco: Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products in excess of the duty-free allowances.
• Agricultural Products: Food, plants, animals, and other agricultural items that may carry disease or pests.
• Prohibited Items: Items that are prohibited under U.S. law, such as weapons, explosives, and counterfeit goods.

How to Declare

Travelers can declare their foreign purchases in one of two ways:

• Electronically: By using the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app or the CBP One app.
• In Person: By completing a Customs Declaration Form (CF 6059B) and presenting it to a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer upon arrival.

Duty and Taxes

Travelers may be subject to duty and taxes on items purchased abroad. The amount of duty and taxes owed depends on the type of item, its value, and the traveler’s personal allowances.

Personal Allowances

U.S. residents are eligible for certain personal allowances when returning from abroad. These allowances vary depending on the length and purpose of the trip. For example, a U.S. resident returning from a trip of less than 48 hours may be eligible for an $800 personal allowance.

Consequences of Failure to Declare

Failing to declare foreign purchases or intentionally undervaluing items can result in fines, seizure of goods, and criminal prosecution.

Additional Information

For more information on declaring foreign purchases, travelers can visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website (https://www.cbp.gov/) or contact a CBP officer.