This applies to tourist and business travelers visiting the United States as well as citizens returning after being abroad.
Returning to the United States after an international trip? There is one simple rule that can save you a lot of trouble at the border:
Declare what you bought or acquired while you were outside the United States.
For many travelers, the good news is that you can bring back a substantial amount of merchandise without paying duty. In many cases, eligible travelers can bring back up to $800 worth of goods duty-free, provided they meet the applicable exemption requirements.
That can include things like clothing, gifts, souvenirs, electronics and other personal purchases. But duty-free does not mean you can simply skip declaring the items.
There are also specific allowances for certain products. For example, travelers can generally bring in up to 200 cigarettes and 100 cigars within the applicable personal exemption. Travelers 21 or older can generally bring back 1 liter of alcoholic beverages duty-free, although additional state or federal requirements may apply.
Food and agricultural products are where things can get a little more complicated.
Fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, plants, seeds and other agricultural products may be restricted or prohibited. Even if something seems harmless—or you were allowed to purchase it in another country—it may not be permitted into the United States.
The safest approach is simple:
When in doubt, declare it.
Declaring an item does not necessarily mean you will have to pay duty or that the item will be confiscated. It simply gives customs officials the opportunity to determine whether the item is permitted and whether any duty or other requirements apply.
Failing to declare something that should have been declared can create a much bigger problem than spending a few extra seconds explaining what you purchased.
Unauthorized and / or undeclared items can result in fines, penalties, the items being seized and even, in some extreme cases, refusal to allow entrance for non-citizens.
Duty-free doesn’t always mean customs-free.
Declare your purchases, answer questions honestly, and let U.S. Customs and Border Protection determine what applies.
A few extra seconds at customs can save you a lot of trouble—and help you get on with enjoying your trip.
Important: This article is provided for general travel reference only and is not a substitute for current government requirements. Customs, duty, agricultural, alcohol and tobacco rules can change, and individual circumstances may affect what you are allowed to bring into the United States. Always check the latest information from the appropriate U.S. government agencies before traveling.