Visiting the US for the Holidays? Read This First

If you're coming to the US this holiday season, a little preparation goes a long way. These tips can help you get through your port of entry quickly and avoid penalties. They're good reminders for any trip to the US, and they matter even more during the busy holiday season.

• Check your documents: Before you leave home, make sure your passport and visa (if required) are valid. If you're traveling under the Visa Waiver Program, get your ESTA approved before your trip.

• Use US Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) tools: Where available, Mobile Passport Control, Border Wait Times, and Ready Lanes can cut down your wait. If you visit often, Global Entry®, NEXUS, or SENTRI may get you through faster. The Trusted Traveler app can help you plan and manage your trip.

• Declare everything you bring: This includes food, plants, seeds, soil, animal products, alcohol, and tobacco. You must also report currency or monetary instruments of $10,000 or more when entering or leaving the US.

• Be honest during the admission process: Give truthful answers about why you're visiting, how long you'll stay, and what you're bringing in.

• Check your I-94 before you leave the port of entry: Your I-94 is your official record of admission, and it shows how long you're allowed to stay. Before you leave the airport or border crossing, look up your record on the I-94 website. Make sure your name, date of birth, passport number, admission class, and "admit until" date are correct. If anything is wrong, ask CBP to correct it before you leave. Errors on I-94 records are common, and they can be hard to fix later.

The bottom line: A little planning now means more time to enjoy the holidays. Keep your documents handy, answer questions honestly, and take a quick look at your I-94 before you leave the port of entry. Make a note of your "admit until" date and plan to head home by then. Staying even a short time past that date can make it harder for you to return to the US in the future.

Safe travels and enjoy your US stay!

The material contained in this communication is informational, general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. The material contained in this communication should not be relied upon or used without consulting a lawyer to consider your specific circumstances. This communication was published on the date specified and may not include any changes in the topics, laws, rules or regulations covered. Receipt of this communication does not establish an attorney-client relationship. In some jurisdictions, this communication may be considered attorney advertising.