Summer Travel Season Begins in Laredo: CBP Offers Tips for Smooth Border Crossing
LAREDO, Texas — With Memorial Day and the end of the local school year, the summer travel season has officially begun. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Laredo encourages travelers to apply for tourist permits online and check Border Wait Times at www.cbp.gov to minimize delays.
CBP Laredo Recommends Online Applications and Wait Time Checks
“As the summer travel season kicks off, we strongly advise those needing tourist permits to save time upon arrival to the U.S. by applying online, checking border wait times and choosing bridge crossings accordingly,” stated Donald R. Kusser, Director of Field Operations, Laredo Field Office. “We highly recommend travelers take advantage of these time-saving tips to avoid delays and maximize their summer travel experience.”
Efficient Border Processing Measures
South Texas ports of entry implement various measures to facilitate smooth traffic flow, including the recommendation to submit tourist permit applications electronically via CBP’s I-94 website and extended processing hours whenever possible.
U.S. Citizen Entry Requirements
U.S. citizens are reminded to bring a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)-compliant document, such as a valid U.S. passport, Trusted Traveler Program card, enhanced driver’s license, or enhanced tribal card, when re-entering the United States. They should be prepared to present a WHTI-compliant document if requested by a CBP officer during a border inspection.
Declare Agricultural Products, Currency
CBP advises all travelers to have their WHTI-compliant entry documents readily available when approaching primary inspection booths and to declare all agricultural products, liquor, and currency or monetary instruments exceeding $10,000.
Utilize Technology for Faster Processing
Travelers can utilize facial biometrics and those needing tourist permits can submit their applications electronically via the I-94 website to help reduce wait times. CBP also offers mobile apps to expedite entry. These free apps are available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, or by visiting the CBP Mobile App Directory. Travelers can monitor border wait times using the BWT app to make informed decisions about which bridge to use.
Know the Difference Between Prohibited and Restricted Goods
To avoid delays or fines, CBP recommends travelers declare all agricultural products upon arrival and review the “Know Before You Go” guide’s list of prohibited and restricted items before traveling.
Follow CBP on Social Media
Follow the CBP Laredo Director of Field Operations on X at @DFOLaredo, on Instagram at @dfolaredo, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection at @CBPSouthTexas for breaking news, current events, human interest stories, and photos. View a complete list of local and regional CBP social media accounts.