CBP 6059B PDF Form

Detailed Instructions for Filling Out CBP 6059B

Travelers entering the United States must navigate through customs by providing required information to the authorities. One crucial piece of documentation in this process is the CBP Form 6059B, also known as the Customs Declaration Form. This document aids customs officers in processing entries quickly and efficiently, ensuring that the law is upheld while facilitating smooth transitions for travelers. Completing the form accurately is paramount, as it not only affects the speed of your entry but also has legal implications. The following steps aim to guide you through filling out the form correctly and with ease.

Steps to Fill Out the CBP Form 6059B:

1. Print your last name, first name, and middle initial in the appropriate fields at the top of the form. Ensure the name matches the one on your passport.
2. Enter your birth date in the format of month/day/year in the designated space.
3. Fill in your country of citizenship. If you hold dual citizenship, include both countries.
4. Write down the number of family members traveling with you in the space provided. Family members include those related by blood, marriage, or adoption who reside in the same household.
5. Provide your permanent address, including the street number and name, city, state or province, country, and ZIP or postal code. This should be where you live most of the year.
6. For the section on countries visited on your trip prior to arriving in the U.S., list all that apply.
7. Flight number or vessel name should be written down as part of the travel information.
8. Next, detail the primary purpose of your trip by checking the appropriate box: business, vacation, or other. If 'other' is selected, briefly specify the purpose.
9. In the space for declaring goods, you must determine whether you have something to declare by checking 'Yes' or 'No.' If 'Yes,' you will need to provide details about the item(s), including their value.
10. There's a section dedicated to specific declarations, such as agricultural products or commercial merchandise. Check the corresponding box if you are bringing any of these items into the United States.
11. Sign and date the form at the bottom to verify that the information provided is accurate and complete to the best of your knowledge.

Once the CBP Form 6059B is filled out correctly, it will be reviewed by a customs officer upon your arrival. The officer may ask you questions about your trip and the items you are bringing into the country. It's important to answer all questions truthfully and to the best of your ability. This form is a key part of ensuring that items entering the U.S. do so in accordance with the law, thereby protecting both the traveler and the country's interests.

1. What is the CBP Form 6059B?

   CBP Form 6059B, known as the Customs Declaration form, is a document that travelers entering the United States must complete. It is used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to identify the specifics of items being brought into the country. Through this form, travelers declare their personal belongings and any goods they are bringing in, ensuring compliance with U.S. laws and regulations on imports.

2. Who needs to fill out the CBP 6059B form?

   Every traveler entering the United States, whether a citizen or a foreign national, must fill out the CBP 6059B form if they are carrying goods that need to be declared or if they exceed the duty-free allowance set by U.S. regulations. Families traveling together can complete one form per family, provided they reside at the same address.

3. When and where do I submit the CBP 6059B form?

   This form is usually provided to you by airline or cruise staff before you arrive in the United States. It should be completed prior to your arrival and submitted to the CBP officer at the entry point, such as an airport or land border crossing. Be ready to present this form along with your identification and travel documents upon request.

4. What information do I need to include on the CBP 6059B form?

   The CBP 6059B form requires detailed information about your trip and the items you are bringing into the United States. This includes your personal information, travel details, countries visited prior to the U.S., and information on items being declared. You must also answer questions related to your visit's purpose and any items that may be subject to health or safety regulations, such as plants, food, and animals.

5. Are there any penalties for not accurately completing the CBP 6059B form?

   Failure to accurately complete the CBP 6059B form can lead to significant penalties, including fines, seizure of undeclared items, and in some cases, criminal charges. It is crucial to declare all items that exceed the duty-free allowance and any items that are restricted or prohibited. If in doubt, it is always safer to declare items to ensure compliance with U.S. laws.

6. Can I fill out the CBP 6059B form electronically?

   In an effort to streamline the customs declaration process, an electronic version of the CBP 6059B form may be available through the CBP One™ app or other approved platforms. This option allows travelers to complete their customs declaration using a smartphone or tablet prior to arriving in the United States. Upon arrival, travelers can present their electronic receipt to CBP officers, making the process more efficient. Check the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website or consult with your airline or cruise line to see if the electronic option is available for your entry point.

One common mistake when completing the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Form 6059B, which is used by travelers to declare items they are bringing into the United States, is failing to declare all items. This includes gifts, items purchased abroad, or items received as compensation. Failure to declare all items can lead to penalties, including fines or the seizure of undeclared items. It is essential for travelers to list everything they are carrying that is not a personal effect, to ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations.

Another mistake involves misunderstandings about duty exemptions. Often, travelers do not accurately claim their exemptions for goods purchased abroad, either claiming too little or too much. The U.S. allows a duty exemption for a certain amount of goods if you have been outside the country for a specific period. However, exceeding this exemption without proper declaration can result in extra duties or penalties. Properly understanding the exemption limits and accurately reporting purchases is critical for a smooth customs experience.

Incorrectly valuing items is also a frequent error on the CBP Form 6059B. Some travelers may underreport the value of their goods, either unintentionally due to currency conversion errors or intentionally, to evade duties. However, customs officials are adept at identifying discrepancies and valuing items correctly. It is crucial that travelers provide an accurate valuation of their goods based on their purchase price in foreign currency, converted to U.S. dollars at the current exchange rate.

Lastly, a significant misstep is forgetting to sign the form. The CBP Form 6059B requires a signature to validate the information provided. An unsigned form can be considered incomplete and may lead to delays during the entry process. The signature certifies that the information is true and correct to the best of the traveler's knowledge. Completing all sections of the form honestly and thoroughly, including the signature, helps ensure a more efficient and trouble-free entry into the United States.

When traveling to the United States, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Form 6059B, known as the "Customs Declaration," is often the most recognized document individuals complete upon entry. However, it is just one piece of a broader document ecosystem required for different situations at U.S. entry points. Below are descriptions of additional forms and documents that travelers may need, which serve various purposes from verifying personal identity to ensuring compliance with U.S. laws.

• Passport - A government-issued document that certifies the identity and nationality of the holder for international travel. It is the primary form of identification used for entering the United States.
• Visa - A conditional authorization granted by a country to a foreigner, allowing them to enter, remain within, or to leave its territory. Specific types of visas are required for different purposes of visit.
• ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) - An automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
• I-94 Arrival/Departure Record - A form used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to track the arrival and departure of foreign individuals. A digital record of this form is created upon arrival.
• I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) - Required for incoming international students. This document is issued by the U.S. academic institution and is necessary for obtaining a student visa.
• DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status) - For individuals approved to participate in exchange visitor programs in the U.S., this document is essential for obtaining a J-1 visa.
• I-797 (Notice of Action) - A document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for certain petition-based visas, indicating that a petition has been approved.
• Global Entry Card - A U.S. Customs and Border Protection program which provides expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.
• Immunization Records - For certain travelers, proof of vaccination against specific diseases may be required, depending on the countries they have visited before entering the United States.

Understanding the requirements and preparing these forms and documents can significantly streamline the entry process into the United States. It's crucial for travelers to research and ensure they have all necessary documentation specific to their reason for travel, well in advance of their trip. This preparation aids in avoiding delays or issues at the point of entry and contributes to a smoother travel experience.

The CBP 6059B form, known as the Customs Declaration form, is a document travelers entering the United States must complete. It requires individuals to declare items they are bringing into the country. This form has similarities with several other documents regarding their purpose, information collected, and how they are used by governmental or regulatory agencies. Below is a list of six documents similar to the CBP 6059B form:

• ETA Form 9035 - Labor Condition Application for H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 Visa Programs: This document is similar to the CBP 6059B form in that it involves providing detailed information to a government agency, in this case, the Department of Labor. It is essential for the visa application process, similar to how the CBP 6059B is necessary for entry into the U.S. Both forms serve as a means of regulatory compliance and oversight.
• I-94 Arrival/Departure Record: The I-94 form shares a common purpose with the CBP 6059B: it is required by travelers entering the United States to document their arrival and departure dates. Both forms are used by the Department of Homeland Security to track entries and exits and to ensure individuals comply with visa regulations.
• TSA Secure Flight Passenger Data Form: Similar to the CBP 6059B, this document is used for security screening purposes. Travelers provide personal information before their flights to assist the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in identifying potential security risks. Both forms contribute to national security and safe travel.
• APHIS Form 7001 - United States Interstate and International Certificate of Health Examination for Small Animals: This form is akin to the CBP 6059B as it deals with the entry of goods into the country, in this case, animals. It requires detailed information about the animal's health status before entering the United States, similar to how the CBP 6059B requires declarations of items being brought into the country.
• Customs Declaration forms of other countries: Many countries have their version of a customs declaration form, which serves the same primary purpose as the CBP 6059B—to declare goods being brought across borders. These forms help in customs processing and enforcement of local laws, similar to the CBP 6059B’s role in the United States.
• IRS Form 8938, Statement of Specified Foreign Financial Assets: While this form deals with financial information rather than physical goods, it is similar to the CBP 6059B in that it is a declaration form required by a government agency (in this case, the Internal Revenue Service). It requires individuals to report foreign assets, which helps the government monitor international financial activities akin to how the CBP 6059B helps monitor goods entering the country.

When completing the CBP 6059B form, a document required for travelers entering the United States to declare their goods, there are certain practices to ensure a smooth process. Here are eight essential dos and don'ts:

• Do read the form thoroughly before starting to fill it out. Understanding each section can help prevent mistakes and save time.
• Do use blue or black ink for clarity and readability. These colors are preferred as they stand out against the white background of the form.
• Do print clearly in capital letters. This enhances the legibility of your information, making it easier for Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers to review.
• Do declare all items you're bringing into the country, including gifts and commercial merchandise. Being honest and thorough is crucial for a hassle-free entry process.
• Don't leave any sections blank. If a section does not apply, mark it with "N/A" (Not Applicable) to indicate that you have seen and considered it.
• Don't underestimate the value of the items you're declaring. Providing an accurate value is essential for proper duty assessment.
• Don't sign the form before you actually complete it. Signing should be the final step, done in the presence of a CBP officer if required.
• Don't forget to list the countries you visited before arriving in the United States. This information is critical for customs purposes and must be accurate.

By following these guidelines, travelers can ensure their CBP 6059B form is correctly filled out, facilitating a smoother entry process into the United States.

The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Form 6059B, known as the "Customs Declaration," is a document that every traveler entering the United States must complete. It's crucial for declaring items you're bringing into the country. However, there are several misconceptions about this form which can lead to confusion:

• Only items purchased abroad need to be declared: In reality, the form requires declaring all items you're bringing into the U.S. that you did not have with you when you left. This includes gifts, merchandise, and any items you're bringing back that were acquired abroad, regardless of their purchase status.

• Food items do not need to be declared: All food items, including those packaged or raw, must be declared. The CBP needs to ensure they do not pose a risk to American agriculture or public health.

• You have to pay duty on all declared items: Not all declared items are subject to duty. Some items may be exempt based on their type or value if they fall within your personal exemption allowance.

• Filling out the form is complicated: While it may seem daunting, the form is straightforward. It asks for basic information about your travel, what you're bringing into the country, and any amounts you're carrying over $10,000. There are guidelines and officers available to assist you if needed.

• U.S. citizens and residents don't need to complete it: Every traveler entering the U.S., including citizens and residents, must complete the form. It applies to everyone, regardless of nationality.

• Digital items are exempt: You must declare all items you're bringing into the U.S., including digital items like software and electronic files, if they were acquired abroad and have monetary value.

• One form per family is enough: Generally, a single form per family is acceptable, but this depends on the circumstances. If family members are residing in different households or carrying items that require individual declaration, separate forms may be needed.

• You can't amend the form after submission: If you realize you've made an error or omitted information after submitting the form, you should notify a CBP officer as soon as possible. Failing to declare items correctly can lead to penalties, but honesty is always the best policy in rectifying mistakes.

The CBP Form 6059B, known as the Customs Declaration form, is an essential document for all travelers entering the United States. It's crucial for accurately declaring what you are bringing into the country. Here are key takeaways about filling out and using the CBP 6059B form:

• Every traveler or a responsible family member must complete the CBP Form 6059B upon arriving in the United States from abroad.
• The form requires detailed information about the traveler including name, date of birth, and passport details, ensuring each individual’s entry is properly recorded.
• Travelers must declare all items they are bringing into the country, including gifts for others and merchandise intended to remain in the United States, to ensure compliance with U.S. laws and regulations.
• Items purchased abroad or received as gifts that are with you must be declared, whether they are carried with you or shipped.
• Food items, regardless of their nature, must always be declared to prevent the entry of harmful pests and diseases.
• Monetary instruments over $10,000, including foreign currency, must be declared on the form to comply with reporting requirements and prevent money laundering.
• The CBP 6059B form also asks travelers to declare if they have visited a farm or been in close proximity to livestock outside the United States, which helps in preventing the spread of agricultural diseases.
• Failure to accurately complete the CBP Form 6059B can result in fines, penalties, or seizure of undeclared items, emphasizing the importance of thorough and truthful declarations.

Completing the CBP 6059B form accurately and truthfully plays a critical role in ensuring a smooth and compliant entry process into the United States. It helps protect the country’s agriculture and economy, by preventing the introduction of prohibited or restricted items and financial fraud.