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Misconceptions

The CBP 6059B form, also known as the Customs Declaration form, is essential for travelers entering the United States. However, several misconceptions exist about this form. Here are seven common misunderstandings:

  1. It is only for international travelers. Many believe that the CBP 6059B form is only required for those traveling from abroad. In reality, it is necessary for all travelers entering the U.S., regardless of their country of origin.
  2. Only U.S. citizens need to fill it out. This is not true. Non-citizens, including tourists and permanent residents, must also complete the form when entering the country.
  3. It can be ignored if you have nothing to declare. Some think they can skip the form if they have no items to declare. However, all travelers must submit the form, even if they have no goods to report.
  4. The form is only required for goods purchased abroad. This misconception overlooks the fact that the form is also used to declare gifts, personal items, and items received from friends or family outside the U.S.
  5. You can fill it out after arriving in the U.S. Some travelers believe they can complete the form once they land. However, it is best to fill it out before arriving, as customs officials may request it upon entry.
  6. It is a lengthy and complicated process. Many people think the form is difficult to complete. In reality, it is straightforward and can usually be filled out quickly.
  7. Only adults need to fill out the form. This is a common myth. Minors traveling with adults also need to have their information included on the form, ensuring that all travelers are accounted for.

Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure a smoother travel experience when entering the United States.

Detailed Steps for Filling Out CBP 6059B

Completing the CBP 6059B form is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail. This form is essential for travelers entering the United States, and accuracy is vital to ensure a smooth entry experience. The following steps will guide you through the completion of the form.

  1. Obtain the CBP 6059B form. You can find this form at U.S. ports of entry or online through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
  2. Begin filling out the form by entering your full name in the designated section. Ensure that the spelling matches your passport or travel document.
  3. Provide your date of birth. Use the format MM/DD/YYYY to avoid any confusion.
  4. Indicate your gender by checking the appropriate box for male or female.
  5. List your nationality. This should correspond with the country that issued your passport.
  6. Fill in your passport number. Ensure accuracy, as any errors may delay your entry.
  7. Enter the expiration date of your passport. Use the same format as your date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY).
  8. Provide your flight information, including the airline name and flight number.
  9. Complete the address section by entering the address where you will be staying in the United States. Include the street address, city, state, and zip code.
  10. Sign and date the form at the bottom. Your signature confirms that the information provided is true and accurate.

Once you have completed the form, keep it accessible as you will need to present it to the Customs and Border Protection officers upon arrival in the United States. Make sure to retain a copy for your records if necessary.

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This Space For Official Use Only

Customs Declaration

FORM APPROVED

OMB NO.1651-0009

19 CFR 122.27, 148.12, 148.13, 148.110, 148.111, 19 USC 1498; 31 CFR 5316

Each arriving traveler or responsible family member must provide the following information (only ONE written declaration per family is required). The term "family" is defined as "members of a family residing in the same household who are related by blood, marriage, domestic relationship, or adoption."

1Family Name

 

First (Given)

 

 

 

 

 

Middle

 

 

 

 

 

Birth date

Month

 

 

 

Day

 

 

 

 

Year

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3Number of Family members traveling with you

4(a) U.S. Street Address (hotel name/destination)

(b) City (c) State

5Passport issued by (country)

6Passport number

7Country of Residence

8 Countries visited on this

trip prior to U.S. arrival

9

Airline/Flight No. or Vessel Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The primary purpose of this trip is business:

 

 

 

 

 

10

Yes

 

No

 

 

11I am (We are) bringing

(a)fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, food, insects: Yes No

(b) meats, animals, animal/wildlife products:

Yes

 

No

 

(c) disease agents, cell cultures, snails:

Yes

 

No

 

 

 

(d) soil or have been on a farm/ranch/pasture:

Yes

 

No

 

 

 

12I have (We have) been in close proximity of livestock: Yes No (such as touching or handling)

13I am (We are) carrying currency or monetary instruments

 

over $10,000 U.S. or foreign equivalent:

Yes

 

No

 

 

(see definition of monetary instruments on reverse)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14

I have (We have) commercial merchandise:

Yes

 

No

 

 

 

 

(articles for sale, samples used for soliciting orders,

 

 

 

 

 

or goods that are not considered personal effects)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RESIDENTS—the total value of all goods, including commercial

15

 

merchandise I/we have purchased or acquired abroad, (including

 

gifts for someone else but not items mailed to

$

 

 

 

 

the U.S.) and am/are bringing to the U.S. is:

 

 

 

 

 

VISITORS—the total value of all articles that

$

 

 

 

 

will remain in the U.S., including commercial

 

 

 

 

 

merchandise is:

 

 

Read the instructions on the back of this form. Space is provided to list all the items you must declare.

I HAVE READ THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON THE REVERSE SIDE OF THIS FORM AND HAVE MADE A TRUTHFUL DECLARATION.

X

Signature

Date (month/day/year)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Welcomes You to the United States

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is responsible for protecting the United States against the illegal importation of prohibited items. CBP officers have the authority to question you and to examine you and your personal property. If you are one of the travelers selected for an examination, you will be treated in a courteous, professional, and dignified manner. CBP Supervisors and Passenger Service Representatives are available to answer your questions. Comment cards are available to compliment or provide feedback.

Important Information

U.S. Residents—Declare all articles that you have acquired abroad and are bringing into the United States.

Visitors (Non-Residents)—Declare the value of all articles that will remain in the United States.

Declare all articles on this declaration form and show the value in U.S. dollars. For gifts, please indicate the retail value.

Duty—CBP officers will determine duty. U.S. residents are normally entitled to a duty-free exemption of $800 on items accompanying them. Visitors (non-residents) are normally entitled to an exemption of $100. Duty will be assessed at the current rate on the first $1,000 above the exemption.

Agricultural and Wildlife Products—To prevent the entry of dangerous agricultural pests and prohibited wildlife, the following are restricted: Fruits, vegetables, plants, plant products, soil, meat, meat products, birds, snails, and other live animals or animal products. Failure to declare such items to a Customs and Border Protection Officer/ Customs and Border Protection Agriculture Specialist/Fish and Wildlife Inspector can result in penalties and the items may be subject to seizure.

Controlled substances, obscene articles, and toxic substances are generally prohibited entry. The importation of merchandise into the U.S. that infringes intellectual property rights may subject travelers to civil or criminal penalties and may pose serious risk to safety or health.

The transportation of currency or monetary instruments, regardless of the amount, is legal. However, if you bring into or take out of the United States more than $10,000 (U.S. or foreign equivalent, or a combination of both), you are required by law to file a report on FinCEN 105 (formerly Customs Form 4790) with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Monetary instruments include coin, currency, travelers checks and bearer instruments such as personal or cashiers checks and stocks and bonds. If you have someone else carry the currency or monetary instrument for you, you must also file a report on FinCEN 105. Failure to file the required report or failure to report the total amount that you are carrying may lead to the seizure of all the currency or monetary instruments, and may subject you to civil penalties and/or criminal prosecution. SIGN ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE OF THIS FORM AFTER YOU HAVE READ THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOVE AND MADE A TRUTHFUL DECLARATION.

Description of Articles

 

 

CBP

(List may continue on another CBP Form 6059B)

 

Value

Use Only

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT: An agency may not conduct or sponsor an information collection and a person is not required to respond to this information unless it displays a current valid OMB control number. The control number for this collection is 1651-0009. The estimated average time to complete this application is 4 minutes. Your response is mandatory. If you have any comments regarding the burden estimate you can write to U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Regulations and Rulings, 90 K Street, NE, 10th Floor, Washington, DC 20229.

CBP Form 6059B (11/16)

CBP Form 6059B (11/16)

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the CBP 6059B form, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Below is a list of things to do and avoid.

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Do provide accurate information about yourself and your travel plans.
  • Do use black or blue ink if filling out the form by hand.
  • Do check for any required signatures before submitting the form.
  • Don't leave any sections blank; if something does not apply, write "N/A."
  • Don't use abbreviations or shorthand that could cause confusion.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors.
  • Don't forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

Key takeaways

The CBP 6059B form is a crucial document for travelers entering the United States. Understanding how to fill it out correctly can simplify your journey through customs. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Purpose of the Form: The CBP 6059B form is designed to collect information about travelers and their belongings as they enter the U.S.
  • Who Needs to Fill It Out: All travelers, including U.S. citizens and foreign visitors, must complete this form when arriving in the country.
  • Information Required: You'll need to provide details such as your name, address, and flight information, along with a declaration of any goods you are bringing into the U.S.
  • Customs Regulations: Be aware of the customs regulations regarding what you can bring into the country. This includes limits on certain items and restrictions on others.
  • Accuracy is Key: Ensure that all the information you provide is accurate. Incorrect or misleading information can lead to delays or penalties.
  • Filling Out the Form: The form can typically be filled out on the plane before landing or at the airport upon arrival. Take your time to read the instructions carefully.
  • Submission: After completing the form, present it to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer upon arrival. They will review it as part of the customs process.
  • Keep a Copy: It’s wise to keep a copy of the form for your records, especially if you are bringing in valuable items or large quantities of goods.
  • Updates and Changes: Stay informed about any changes to the form or customs regulations. The CBP website is a reliable source for the latest information.

By following these key points, travelers can navigate the customs process more smoothly and ensure compliance with U.S. regulations.

Similar forms

The CBP 6059B form, also known as the Customs Declaration Form, is similar to the CBP 7501 form. The CBP 7501 is used for the entry of merchandise into the United States. Both forms require detailed information about the items being brought into the country, including their value and purpose. While the 6059B focuses on personal items and travelers, the 7501 is specifically for commercial goods, making it essential for importers to understand the distinction between personal and commercial declarations.

Another document similar to the CBP 6059B is the I-94 form, or Arrival/Departure Record. This form tracks the arrival and departure of non-citizens in the U.S. While the 6059B is primarily concerned with what travelers are bringing into the country, the I-94 records their immigration status and duration of stay. Both forms are crucial for border control and compliance with U.S. immigration laws.

The CBP 3299 form, also known as the Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles, shares similarities with the CBP 6059B. The CBP 3299 is used when individuals are moving to the U.S. and wish to declare their personal effects that will not incur duties. Both forms require a declaration of items being brought into the country, but the 3299 is specifically tailored for unaccompanied shipments, making it essential for relocating individuals.

The CBP 7506 form, which is a declaration for goods that are being exported, is another document that bears resemblance to the CBP 6059B. While the 6059B is for incoming travelers, the 7506 is used to declare items leaving the U.S. Both forms require accurate descriptions of the goods and their values, and they serve to ensure compliance with U.S. trade regulations.

The ATF Form 6 is also comparable to the CBP 6059B. This form is used for the importation of firearms and ammunition into the U.S. Like the 6059B, it requires detailed information about the items being brought into the country. However, the ATF Form 6 is specifically focused on controlled items and requires additional compliance with federal firearms regulations.

Lastly, the Form 8840, also known as the Closer Connection Exception Statement for Aliens, is similar in that it deals with declarations for individuals entering the U.S. This form is used by non-resident aliens who wish to claim a closer connection to a foreign country to avoid being taxed as a U.S. resident. While the focus of the 8840 is tax-related, both forms require travelers to provide specific information about their status and intentions upon entering the United States.

Documents used along the form

The CBP 6059B form, also known as the Customs Declaration form, is an essential document for travelers entering the United States. It helps U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) assess the items being brought into the country. However, this form is often accompanied by other documents that facilitate a smooth entry process. Below is a list of some commonly used forms and documents that travelers might encounter alongside the CBP 6059B form.

  • Passport: A passport is a government-issued identification that verifies a traveler’s identity and citizenship. It is essential for international travel and is typically required for entry into the U.S.
  • Visa: A visa is an endorsement placed in a passport that allows the holder to enter, stay, or leave a country for a specific purpose. Depending on the traveler's nationality and purpose of visit, a visa may be required in addition to a passport.
  • I-94 Form: The I-94 form is issued by CBP and records the arrival and departure of foreign visitors in the U.S. It is crucial for tracking the duration of a visitor's stay and ensuring compliance with immigration laws.
  • Customs Bond: A customs bond is a contract between a bond issuer and CBP that ensures the payment of duties, taxes, and penalties. It is often required for businesses importing goods into the U.S.
  • Commercial Invoice: A commercial invoice is a document provided by the seller to the buyer that outlines the details of a transaction, including the goods sold, their value, and terms of sale. It is essential for customs clearance.
  • Bill of Lading: A bill of lading is a legal document between the shipper and carrier that details the type, quantity, and destination of goods being transported. It serves as a receipt for the cargo and is important for customs processing.
  • Health Certificates: Depending on the items being imported, health certificates may be required to ensure that certain products, like food and animals, meet U.S. health standards. These documents help prevent the spread of disease and ensure safety.

Understanding the various documents that accompany the CBP 6059B form can significantly ease the travel experience. Each of these forms plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations and facilitates a smoother entry process for travelers and goods alike.