Getting through Immigration & Customs

In another country

• NEVER say the words "bomb" "gun," etc. in an airport, even in jest.

• Smile and know how to say "thank you" to the customs officer(s) in the local language.

• If you are questioned by a customs official, do not offer any information that they do not ask for. Only answer the questions you are asked.

• If you are asked about religious materials in your bags, tell the customs officer that the materials are for personal use. Most countries allow foreigners to practice a religion other than the predominant religion of the host country, so it's not usually not illegal to bring personal devotional material into the country.

• If you are questioned about your reason for coming to the country, saying that you are a tourist is a sufficient answer.

• Some countries with drug trafficking problems target student-aged people who have long hair, unkempt appearances, and (guys) facial hair as possible drug pushers. You can be denied entry into a country on suspicion of drug running, so maintain a well-maintained appearance to go through immigration and customs.

• Customs officials in non-U.S. countries sometimes want to receive a "gift" to let you through customs. Bribery is not recommended.

• Some countries have a limit to the amount of U.S. dollars you can bring into their country. Be truthful about the amount you are brining in. Usually the limit is about $3,000.

  Electronic equipment (cameras, computers, microphones, speakers, radios, etc.) often comes under scrutiny by customs officials on suspicion that you are bringing the items into the country to sell. Simply reply that the items are for personal use.

In the USA

• NEVER say the words "bomb" "gun," etc. in an airport, even in jest.

• A customs form is the only form of identification besides your passport required at immigration for U.S. citizens returning to the USA.

• In general, you have nothing to declare if you did not bring any food or plants or more than $400 worth of foreign items into the USA.

• American citizens are allowed to bring $400 worth of items into the USA duty-free if you have been out of the country for at least 48 hours.

• Married couples can combine their $400 allowances and make a joint declaration to customs. For example, if one spouse buys a $500 souvenir and the other spouse buys $100 worth of items, the joint declaration would be for $600 of the allowable $800 for the couple.

• American citizens can mail up to $200 worth of goods home duty free with a limit of one package per addressee per day. Label the package "personal use" and attach a list of contents and their retail value. Do not label the package "unsolicited gift" or the duty-free exemption will be cancelled. Mailed items do not affect your duty-free allowance on your return to the USA.

• Antiques (any item more than 100 years old) and original works of art done completely by hand such as paintings and sculptures, enter duty free.