A Port of Entry (POE) is a designated location where individuals can lawfully enter the United States under the supervision of US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. These are the only places where foreign nationals can legally enter the country. Ports of entry include international airports, seaports, and land border crossings. You can find a list of air, land, and sea ports of entry on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website.
Before arriving in the United States, it is critical to ensure all of your documentation is in order. Confirm that your passport and visa stamp are valid for at least six months beyond the date of your planned entry into the country. You should also make sure that you have photocopies of all of your immigration documents, in case you lose an original document during your travels.
Once you have finally reached the POE, you will typically go through the following steps:
It is important to understand that your experience at a U.S. Port of Entry may differ from the process outlined above. The exact procedures you encounter at a POE can vary based on numerous factors. For instance, if you are arriving from a country with high rates of a communicable disease, you may be asked to complete a health form before entering the U.S. For more information on what to expect at a POE in your specific circumstances, consult with an experienced immigration attorney.
Arriving at a US Port of Entry represents the final checkpoint in your immigration journey. While many travelers experience anxiety as they approach this critical step, try to approach this moment with preparedness rather than anxiety. Our legal experts at Attorney At Law are here to provide professional guidance before your arrival and ensure all of your documentation meets current requirements.
