As the Jobbie Nooner event nears, the U.S. Border Patrol has issued a reminder to boaters arriving from Canada to adhere to reporting requirements upon entering the United States. The agency emphasized that failure to report arrivals to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can result in severe penalties.
Small pleasure vessel operators coming from foreign ports or engaging with hovering vessels are mandated to report their arrival immediately upon landing in the U.S. Non-compliance could lead to fines, seizure of vessels, or imprisonment.
“If you do not follow the reporting requirements and enter the United States illegally, you will be prosecuted, and your vessel will be seized,” stated John R. Morris, Chief Patrol Agent of the Detroit Sector for U.S. Border Patrol.
To facilitate this process, boaters can use the CBP ROAM mobile application available on Apple App and Google Play stores. This app allows users to report their entry via personal smart devices or tablets as part of an Alternative Inspection System that meets legal face-to-face inspection requirements under 8 CFR 235.1.
Alternatively, boaters may report their arrival by phone to the nearest CBP office at their point of entry.
The CBP remains America's largest law enforcement organization with over 65,000 personnel dedicated to safeguarding borders through innovation and collaboration while promoting lawful travel and trade.
