Uk Customs And Border Protection (2023)

FAQs

Do you have to answer questions at customs? ›

If you are a U.S. citizen, you need only answer questions establishing your identity and citizenship, although refusing to answer routine questions about the nature and purpose of your travel could result in delay and/or further inspection.

You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status. You may simply say that you do not wish to answer those questions.

You may be asked where you were born, how you entered the U.S. or how long you've been here. You don't ever have to answer those questions. Your responses may be used to detain and deport you.

They can ask, you don't have to answer. They then can take you aside... Immigration officials are free to ask anyone entering the country any reasonable questions about who they are, where they have been, why are they here etc. Your EU passport or a UK does not give anyone an exemption from these questions.

But if you go through a border-check, they are going to ask you questions. They aren't trying to incriminate innocent people; they are trying to sort out the smugglers. If you don't answer, they have to throw you on the maybe-smuggler category and go through all your belongings.

You have the right to remain silent and do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with police, immigration agents or any other officials. You do not have to answer questions about where you were born, whether you are a U.S. citizen, or how you entered the country.

Agents may ask you questions about your trip, or what you are carrying into the country, to make sure that you are not bringing any contraband or dangerous materials into the country, and to make sure that you are not committing any crime punishable by U.S. or Texas law.

You need to be straightforward in what you say, lest you raise a red flag. If you are on a visitor visa and say at border control that you are looking for a job, you'll be boarded on the next flight home. Through your answer, you must show that you are planning to stay true to the laws of the U.S.

You may be disqualified if your background includes:

Use of illegal drugs and/or the sale distribution of illegal drugs. Convictions, including misdemeanor domestic violence charges.

What can US immigration officers see on the screens at border control? ›

Your CBP Interview

The CBP officers are authorized to ask you questions about your trip and your personal background, including: Your citizenship. The nature of your trip. Anything you are bringing back to the United States that you did not have when you left.

Your passport (and visa if you have one) will be checked at border control. You'll usually be asked why you're coming to the UK.

EU, EEA and Swiss citizens and other non-visa nationals do not require a visa to enter the UK when visiting the UK for up to 6 months. All migrants looking to enter the UK for other reasons (such as work or study) will need to apply for entry clearance in advance.

Your identity document (for example your passport or identity card) will be checked when you arrive at a UK port or airport to make sure you're allowed to come into the country. It should be valid for the whole of your stay. You may also need a visa to come into or travel through the UK, depending on your nationality.

Present your declaration form to customs officials. Customs officials may or may not inspect your luggage. If they do check your bags and find restricted items, you may be asked to pay duty and/or fines. This is why it is critical to declare items as asked and required.