The days of scrambling to fill out a U.S. Customs form before landing in the United States are over. As of 2023, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced that it will no longer require international travelers to complete a paper Customs Declaration form, also known as the CBP Form 6059B. This change is part of the agency's efforts to streamline the customs process and reduce wait times for travelers.
The CBP has been working to modernize its systems and processes in recent years, and the elimination of the paper form is a significant step in this direction. The agency has implemented a new automated system that allows travelers to declare goods and provide required information electronically. This change is expected to make the customs process faster, easier, and more efficient for travelers.
What This Means for Travelers
The elimination of the paper Customs form means that travelers will no longer need to worry about filling out a form before landing in the United States. Instead, they will be able to declare goods and provide required information electronically through the CBP's automated system. This change is expected to reduce wait times and make the customs process faster and more efficient.
In addition to the elimination of the paper form, the CBP has also introduced a new mobile app that allows travelers to declare goods and provide required information electronically. The app, called the CBP One, allows travelers to submit their customs declaration and payment information electronically, reducing the need for paper forms and making the customs process more efficient.
Benefits of the New System
The new automated system and mobile app offer a number of benefits for travelers, including:
- Faster processing times: By automating the customs process, the CBP is able to process travelers more quickly, reducing wait times and making the overall travel experience more efficient.
- Increased accuracy: The automated system reduces the risk of errors and inaccuracies, ensuring that travelers' information is accurate and up-to-date.
- Improved security: The CBP's automated system provides an additional layer of security, allowing the agency to more easily identify and prevent threats to national security.
How the New System Works
The new automated system and mobile app work as follows:
- Travelers submit their customs declaration and payment information electronically through the CBP One app or through the automated system at the airport.
- The CBP reviews the information and processes the traveler's declaration.
- Travelers are then directed to a designated area for inspection, where they will be asked to present their electronic receipt and any required documentation.
Exemptions and Special Cases
While the CBP is no longer requiring paper Customs forms, there are some exemptions and special cases to be aware of:
- Travelers who are bringing in goods that are exempt from duty, such as gifts or personal effects, may still be required to complete a paper form.
- Travelers who are transporting certain types of goods, such as firearms or plant and animal products, may be required to complete additional paperwork or declarations.
- Travelers who are entering the United States under certain visa programs, such as the Visa Waiver Program, may be required to complete additional paperwork or declarations.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The elimination of the paper Customs form is a significant step forward in the modernization of the customs process. By automating the process and introducing a new mobile app, the CBP is making it easier and faster for travelers to declare goods and provide required information. While there are some exemptions and special cases to be aware of, the new system is expected to make the customs process more efficient and streamlined for the vast majority of travelers.
As the CBP continues to modernize its systems and processes, travelers can expect to see even more improvements and efficiencies in the future. By staying informed and up-to-date on the latest developments, travelers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when entering the United States.
Final Thoughts
The elimination of the paper Customs form is a significant development in the world of travel and customs. By automating the process and introducing a new mobile app, the CBP is making it easier and faster for travelers to declare goods and provide required information. Whether you're a frequent traveler or just starting to plan your next trip, it's essential to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest developments in the customs process.
Call to Action
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the new customs process and the elimination of the paper Customs form. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us in the comments below. We'd love to hear from you and help you stay informed and up-to-date on the latest developments in the world of travel and customs.
What is the CBP One app?
+The CBP One app is a mobile app introduced by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that allows travelers to declare goods and provide required information electronically.
Do I still need to complete a paper Customs form?
+No, the CBP is no longer requiring paper Customs forms. Instead, travelers can declare goods and provide required information electronically through the CBP One app or the automated system at the airport.
What are the benefits of the new automated system?
+The new automated system and mobile app offer a number of benefits, including faster processing times, increased accuracy, and improved security.