As the Easter holiday approaches, the Laredo Port of Entry is preparing for an expected increase in international travelers crossing into the United States from southern Texas. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced measures to handle the heightened traffic, which is typical during this period.
"Semana Santa se está acercando y tradicionalmente vemos un aumento signifícate en el tráfico vehicular en nuestros puertos de entrada," stated Laredo Port Director Alberto Flores. He suggested travelers use the CBP Home application for preliminary tourist permits, check wait times at border crossings, and select the most convenient port of entry to minimize delays.
The Laredo Port of Entry plans to implement electronic tourist permits and provides an I-94 processing facility outside the port from April 6 to April 19 at the Outlet Shoppes at Laredo. The facility operates Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Additionally, CBP at the Juárez-Lincoln Bridge will open extra lanes to facilitate the flow of vehicles as needed.
U.S. citizens are reminded to carry a valid document complying with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, such as a valid passport or an enhanced driver's license when re-entering the U.S. Non-citizens attempting illegal entry or lacking proper documentation may face removal.
Travelers are encouraged to keep their WHTI-compliant documents accessible at primary inspection booths and declare all agricultural items, alcohol, and currency over $10,000. Using the CBP Home app can help reduce waiting times, offering services such as border wait times and provisional entry permits.
For timely decisions about which bridge to use, travelers can monitor border wait times through the CBP Wait Times app, available on Apple App Store and Google Play. These wait times are updated hourly.
To avoid fines or delays due to prohibited agricultural items, CBP advises travelers to declare these items and consult the prohibited items guide, Know Before You Go, before traveling.
The public may follow the CBP's Laredo office on social media for updates, events, and stories.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection plays a critical role as the largest law enforcement organization, managing borders and ensuring travel and trade facilitate national security and economy. Its workforce focuses on innovation and collaboration to enhance security.
