As the summer travel season begins, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Office of Field Operations at Laredo Field Office advises travelers to apply for tourist permits online and check border wait times on www.cbp.gov to avoid delays.
Donald R. Kusser, Director of Field Operations at the Laredo Field Office, stated, “As the summer travel season cranks into full gear, we strongly encourage those needing tourist permits to save time upon arrival to the U.S. by applying for them online and checking border wait times and choosing bridge crossings accordingly.” He added that these measures can help travelers make the most of their summer trips.
The South Texas ports of entry have implemented several measures to facilitate smooth traffic flow. These include electronic filing of tourist permit applications via CBP’s I-94 Website and expanded processing hours where possible.
U.S. citizens are reminded to carry a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative-compliant document such as a valid U.S. passport or Trusted Traveler Program card when reentering the United States. They should be ready to present this document if requested by a CBP Officer during inspection.
Travelers are encouraged to use facial biometrics and file tourist permit applications electronically through the I-94 Website. CBP offers mobile apps available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store or through the CBP Mobile Apps Directory, which help streamline entry into the U.S.
To reduce potential delays or fines related to prohibited or restricted agricultural items, travelers should declare all such items upon arrival and consult the Know Before You Go guide for a list of prohibited and restricted items.
Follow updates from Director Kusser on X at @DFOLaredo, on Instagram at @dfolaredo, and from U.S. Customs and Border Protection at @CBPSouthTexas for news and information.
CBP is America's largest law enforcement organization with over 65,000 personnel protecting national security while facilitating lawful travel and trade.
