Fill in Your CBP 6059B Form

CBP 6059B - Usage Guidelines

When crossing international borders into the United States, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requires travelers to submit the CBP Form 6059B, known as the Customs Declaration form. This document is crucial for informing CBP officers about what you are bringing into the country, including any items that must be declared according to U.S. laws and regulations. Whether it's your first-time traveling or you're a seasoned explorer, accurately completing this form is essential to ensuring a smooth entry process. The following steps are designed to guide you through filling out the CBP 6059B form, ensuring that all the necessary details are correctly provided.

1. Start by printing your last name and first name in the spaces provided. Make sure to use capital letters to ensure readability.
2. Enter your birth date in the format of month-day-year (MM-DD-YYYY).
3. Indicate your country of citizenship. If you hold multiple nationalities, mention the country of the passport you're using to enter the U.S.
4. In the space provided, mark your sex as either M (Male), F (Female), or X (Unspecified), corresponding to your identification document.
5. List the number of family members traveling with you on the same form. Here, family refers to those directly related to you by blood, marriage, or adoption, living in the same household.
6. Write down the address where you will stay in the United States, including the street, city, state, and ZIP code. If you're transiting to another country, you may declare that instead.
7. Provide your passport number and the country that issued your passport.
8. Enter the name of the airline or vessel on which you arrived, as well as your flight or voyage number.
9. Describe the countries you visited before arriving in the United States. Be thorough and include any layovers, as these details can be important.
10. Respond to the question about whether you or any family members traveling with you are carrying commercial merchandise into the U.S. This includes samples used for soliciting orders, goods intended for sale or business, and other items not considered personal effects.
11. For the question on carrying currency or monetary instruments over $10,000, check "Yes" or "No". Be aware that this includes combined sums of foreign and U.S. currency, and filling this out accurately is critical.
12. Answer whether you have been in close proximity to livestock or are bringing in soil, agricultural products, wildlife, wildlife products, or have been involved in disease exposure concerns. These are important health and safety considerations that need accurate declaration.
13. Tick the appropriate boxes that ask about items you're bringing into the U.S., including fruits, vegetables, meats, snails, other live animals, or disease agents. Each category has specific entry conditions or may be prohibited altogether.
14. Sign and date the declaration in the spaces provided at the bottom of the form to certify that all the information you've provided is true and complete to the best of your knowledge. A signature is mandatory for the form to be considered valid.

Filling out the CBP Form 6059B accurately is a key step in ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations upon your arrival. It's not just about following legal requirements; it's also about protecting agriculture and public health in the U.S. Take your time to understand each question and answer honestly to contribute to a smoother entry process and avoid potential penalties. Remember, CBP officers are there to assist you should you have any questions or concerns about the form or the entry procedure.

What is the CBP 6059B form designed for?

The CBP 6059B form, commonly known as the Customs Declaration form, is a document that travelers entering the United States must complete. Its primary purpose is to provide U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) with details about who is entering the country, what they are bringing with them, and any items they are declaring. This includes information on items that may be subject to duties or are prohibited or restricted from entering the United States. The form helps ensure that travelers comply with U.S. laws and regulations regarding imports.

Who needs to fill out the CBP 6059B form?

Every traveler arriving in the United States from abroad must complete the CBP 6059B form, regardless of nationality. This includes U.S. citizens returning home, residents of the U.S., and visitors or tourists. Families traveling together can submit a single form, provided they all live in the same household and are related by blood, marriage, or adoption. However, if any family member is carrying prohibited or restricted items, or items that exceed the duty-free exemption, they must complete their own form.

How does one obtain and submit the CBP 6059B form?

Travelers can obtain the CBP 6059B form in several ways. Most commonly, the form is distributed by airlines or cruise lines before arriving in the United States. Furthermore, the form is available at ports of entry across the U.S. Upon completion, the form must be presented to a CBP officer at passport control and customs inspection points. It's important to answer all questions truthfully and to the best of one's knowledge, as false statements can lead to penalties, including fines or other enforcement actions.

Are there any exceptions or special considerations when filling out the CBP 6059B form?

Yes, there are several exceptions and special considerations travelers should be aware of. For example, items purchased in duty-free shops either abroad or in the U.S. must be declared. However, certain personal effects that travelers bring with them, such as clothing and personal hygiene items, for personal use during their stay, are not dutiable. Additionally, travelers entering the U.S. from certain countries are eligible for specific exemptions regarding the amount of goods they can bring into the country duty-free. It's also vital for travelers to declare any food products they are bringing into the U.S., as many items are restricted or prohibited to protect U.S. agriculture. Detailed information on exemptions and restricted items can be found on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website or by consulting a CBP officer upon arrival.

The CBP 6059B form, commonly known as the Customs Declaration form, is a crucial document for travelers entering the United States. It's essential for ensuring that laws and regulations concerning the importation of goods are followed. However, travelers often make mistakes when completing this form, which can lead to delays, fines, or the confiscation of undeclared items. Here are ten common mistakes:

1. Not reading the instructions carefully. This sounds simple, but the form comes with specific instructions that are easy to overlook. Each question needs to be understood and answered accurately.

2. Failing to declare all items purchased or acquired abroad. Everything from souvenirs to items received as gifts must be declared to avoid penalties.

3. Underreporting the value of goods. It's important to report the accurate market value of all items in U.S. dollars to prevent any suspicion of evasion or fraud.

4. Not specifying the countries visited prior to arriving in the U.S. Travel history can affect the customs process, and omitting this information can raise red flags.

5. Leaving sections blank. If a section does not apply, it's better to write "N/A" or "None" rather than leaving it empty, as this could be seen as incomplete.

6. Overlooking the question about carrying over $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments. Whether it's cash, checks, or other forms of money, this must be declared to comply with reporting laws.

7. Not disclosing food products. Even seemingly harmless items like chocolates or cheese can be subject to agricultural regulations, and failing to declare them can result in fines.

8. Forgetting to mention commercial merchandise. If you're carrying items intended for sale or business use, these need to be declared, regardless of their value.

9. Incorrectly reporting accompanying family members. Each family member's details must be accurately provided, and it's crucial to understand who can be included on a single form.

10. Mixing personal and household items without proper distinction. If you're moving to the U.S. or bringing household items, these should be listed separately from personal belongings to ensure they are processed correctly.

To avoid these common mistakes, travelers should take the time to read all instructions carefully and review their declarations before submitting the form. It's also prudent to check the latest regulations on the official website of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as these may change. Proper preparation and attention to detail can make the process smoother and prevent unnecessary complications.

Travelers entering the United States might be familiar with the customs declaration process, where form CBP 6059B, the Customs Declaration form, is a primary document required upon arrival. However, several other important documents are often needed to ensure a smooth entry process, each serving a specific purpose in complementing the CBP 6059B form.

• Passport: This is the most essential travel document, verifying the identity and nationality of the traveler. For entering the United States, a valid passport is required, which must be presented along with the CBP 6059B form.
• Visa: Depending on the traveler's country of origin and the purpose of the visit, a visa may be necessary to enter the United States. It is a document that is placed within the traveler’s passport and shows that the holder is authorized to enter, leave, or stay for a specific period in the country.
• Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record): This form records the traveler's arrival and departure dates from the United States. Upon arrival, the digital I-94 is automatically generated for visitors. The traveler may need to present the printed confirmation of their digital I-94 form alongside the CBP 6059B.
• Proof of Vaccination: Due to health regulations, proof of certain vaccinations may be required for entry into the United States, depending on the current health advisories and the traveler's history of travel to certain countries.

In addition to the CBP 6059B, these documents play a crucial role in the legal and regulatory framework that governs entry into the United States. By understanding the requirement and purpose of each, travelers can better prepare for their journey, ensuring compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection policies and procedures.

• ESTA Application (Electronic System for Travel Authorization): Similar to the CBP 6059B form, the ESTA application is required for travelers entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. It collects detailed personal information and travel intentions to pre-screen travelers for security purposes before they arrive in the U.S.

• I-94 Arrival/Departure Record: This document records the arrival and departure dates of visitors to the United States. Like the CBP 6059B form, it is essential for tracking entry and exit, ensuring individuals comply with their visa terms.

• DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application: Used by individuals applying for a nonimmigrant visa, the DS-160 form collects similar types of personal and travel-related information as the CBP 6059B form to assess eligibility for entry into the U.S.

• Global Entry Application: The Global Entry program requires an application that collects comprehensive personal data and travel history, akin to the CBP 6059B form, to expedite clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.

• I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: This application is used by individuals seeking to adjust their status to a permanent resident or obtain a Green Card. It gathers detailed personal information, similar to the CBP 6059B form.

• NEXUS Application: For frequent travelers between the U.S. and Canada, the NEXUS application simplifies border crossings. Like the CBP 6059B, it collects detailed personal and travel-related information to assess eligibility for expedited processing.

• SENTRI Application: The SENTRI program offers expedited travel to pre-approved travelers between the U.S. and Mexico. Its application process requires comprehensive information gathering, paralleling the scrutiny seen in the CBP 6059B form submissions.

• Visa Application Forms of Other Countries: Many nations have their own version of a visa application form, collecting detailed personal data, purpose of travel, and other specifics needed to evaluate a traveler's entry request. While formats and specific questions may vary, the core purpose aligns with that of the CBP 6059B form — to secure borders and regulate who is allowed to enter.

Navigating customs can be straightforward with a clear understanding of the CBP 6059B form, commonly known as the Customs Declaration form. This document plays a pivotal role in informing U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) about what you are bringing into the country. To ensure a smooth process, it's crucial to pay attention to both what you should and shouldn't do when filling out this form.

What You Should Do

1. Provide accurate information: Ensure all data you enter is truthful and matches the details in your travel documents.
2. Declare all items: Include everything you’re bringing from abroad that is not part of your personal belongings.
3. Read the instructions carefully: Before filling out the form, review all instructions to avoid common errors.
4. Use English: Complete the form in English, using the standard alphabet, to prevent misunderstandings or processing delays.
5. Keep receipts handy: For newly purchased items that you're declaring, have receipts available for verification.

What You Shouldn’t Do

1. Leave blanks: If a section does not apply to you, write “N/A” instead of leaving it empty to show that you have read and answered each question to the best of your knowledge.
2. Overestimate values: Be honest about the value of the items you’re declaring to avoid penalties or delays.
3. Use abbreviations or nicknames: To ensure clarity, write full names and avoid using abbreviations or nicknames.
4. Sign the form prematurely: Wait until you are in the presence of a CBP officer to sign the form, as they may have questions or require additional information.
5. Forget to declare food items: All food items, regardless of their value or quantity, must be declared to comply with U.S. regulations.

Filling out the CBP 6059B form correctly is the first step towards a hassle-free entry into the United States. By following these do's and don'ts, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother journey through customs. Remember, honesty and attention to detail can save you from unnecessary complications.

The CBP Form 6059B, also known as the Customs Declaration form, is an essential document for travelers entering the United States. It asks travelers to declare what they are bringing into the country, covering everything from agricultural products to merchandise for sale. However, several misconceptions surround this form, leading to confusion and sometimes even mistakes in filling it out. Let's clarify some of these misunderstandings.

• Only Goods for Sale Need to Be Declared: A common misconception is that you only need to declare items you intend to sell. In reality, the CBP Form 6059B requires disclosure of all items being brought into the U.S., including gifts, items for personal use, and items you plan to sell.

• Food Items Are Generally Prohibited: Many people erroneously believe all food items are prohibited from entry into the U.S. While certain restrictions apply, especially to fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products, not all food items are banned. The key is to declare all food items, allowing CBP officials to make the final determination.

• Personal Information Is Shared Widely: Concerns about privacy often lead to misunderstandings about how personal information provided on the form is used. In fact, the primary purpose of collecting this information is to ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations. Such information is handled with strict confidentiality protocols to protect travelers’ privacy.

• Everyone in a Family Needs Their Own Form: Actually, families traveling together can complete one form per household. This simplification aims to make the process easier for groups living in the same residence.

• Declaring Items Will Automatically Incur a Fee: There's a misconception that declaring items on your form means you'll have to pay duties or fees on them. While duties are assessed on certain items above specific value thresholds, many goods can be brought in duty-free. Declaring doesn't always mean you'll pay extra.

• Filling Out the Form Is Complicated and Time-Consuming: While the form does require attention to detail, it's designed to be straightforward. Following the instructions carefully makes it relatively easy and quick to complete, especially if you prepare in advance by familiarizing yourself with the requirements.

Understanding these points can help travelers complete the CBP Form 6059B accurately and with confidence. When in doubt, the best course of action is always to declare items to CBP officials, who can provide guidance and ensure compliance with U.S. laws and regulations.

When traveling into the United States, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) 6059B form is an essential document that all travelers must fill out. Its purpose is to declare items being brought into the country, providing details that help the CBP enforce import regulations and laws. Understanding how to correctly fill out and use this form is important for a smooth entry process. Here are four key takeaways regarding the CBP 6059B form:

• Accuracy is crucial: Every traveler must provide true, accurate, and complete information about the items they are bringing into the United States. Misrepresentation or failure to declare items can result in penalties, including fines or seizure of goods.
• Personal and household items: Travelers must declare all items they are bringing into the country that they acquired abroad. This includes gifts, merchandise, repairs, or alterations to personal items. Everyday personal effects that were taken out of the United States and are returning in the same condition are not generally subject to declaration.
• Monetary instruments: Any traveler carrying more than $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments must declare the total amount on the CBP 6059B form. This requirement helps prevent money laundering and ensures compliance with financial reporting laws.
• Agricultural items require special attention: All fruits, vegetables, plants, meats, and animal products must be declared. These items can carry pests or diseases that could harm the United States' agricultural resources. The CBP may inspect these items more closely, and failure to declare them can result in fines.