Free CBP 6059B PDF Form Access Your Document Online

Free CBP 6059B PDF Form

The CBP 6059B form, known as the Customs Declaration form, is an essential document required by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection for all travelers entering the United States. It serves to declare any goods being brought into the country, ensuring compliance with U.S. laws and regulations. For those looking to smoothly navigate through customs, completing this form accurately is a crucial step. To begin filling out your form, click the button below.

Traveling into the United States brings with it a flurry of excitement and, for many, a heap of paperwork. Among the essential documents that international visitors and returning residents need to be familiar with is the CBP 6059B form, commonly known as the Customs Declaration form. This document serves as a declaration to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) of what you are bringing into the country, including items that may be subject to duties or restrictions. It's not just about declaring merchandise you've purchased abroad; it’s also about food, plants, animals, and even certain types of information or data you might be carrying. Filling out the CBP 6059B accurately is crucial for a smooth entry process, as it helps CBP officers understand your intentions and ensures you comply with U.S. laws and regulations. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or making your first trip, understanding the nuances of this form can save you time and prevent potential headaches at the border.

CBP 6059B Preview

This Space For Official Use Only

Customs Declaration

FORM APPROVED

OMB NO.1651-0009

19 CFR 122.27, 148.12, 148.13, 148.110, 148.111, 19 USC 1498; 31 CFR 5316

Each arriving traveler or responsible family member must provide the following information (only ONE written declaration per family is required). The term "family" is defined as "members of a family residing in the same household who are related by blood, marriage, domestic relationship, or adoption."

1Family Name

 

First (Given)

 

 

 

 

 

Middle

 

 

 

 

 

Birth date

Month

 

 

 

Day

 

 

 

 

Year

 

 

 

2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3Number of Family members traveling with you

4(a) U.S. Street Address (hotel name/destination)

(b) City (c) State

5Passport issued by (country)

6Passport number

7Country of Residence

8 Countries visited on this

trip prior to U.S. arrival

9

Airline/Flight No. or Vessel Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The primary purpose of this trip is business:

 

 

 

 

 

10

Yes

 

No

 

 

11I am (We are) bringing

(a)fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, food, insects: Yes No

(b) meats, animals, animal/wildlife products:

Yes

 

No

 

(c) disease agents, cell cultures, snails:

Yes

 

No

 

 

 

(d) soil or have been on a farm/ranch/pasture:

Yes

 

No

 

 

 

12I have (We have) been in close proximity of livestock: Yes No (such as touching or handling)

13I am (We are) carrying currency or monetary instruments

 

over $10,000 U.S. or foreign equivalent:

Yes

 

No

 

 

(see definition of monetary instruments on reverse)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14

I have (We have) commercial merchandise:

Yes

 

No

 

 

 

 

(articles for sale, samples used for soliciting orders,

 

 

 

 

 

or goods that are not considered personal effects)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RESIDENTS—the total value of all goods, including commercial

15

 

merchandise I/we have purchased or acquired abroad, (including

 

gifts for someone else but not items mailed to

$

 

 

 

 

the U.S.) and am/are bringing to the U.S. is:

 

 

 

 

 

VISITORS—the total value of all articles that

$

 

 

 

 

will remain in the U.S., including commercial

 

 

 

 

 

merchandise is:

 

 

Read the instructions on the back of this form. Space is provided to list all the items you must declare.

I HAVE READ THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON THE REVERSE SIDE OF THIS FORM AND HAVE MADE A TRUTHFUL DECLARATION.

X

Signature

Date (month/day/year)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Welcomes You to the United States

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is responsible for protecting the United States against the illegal importation of prohibited items. CBP officers have the authority to question you and to examine you and your personal property. If you are one of the travelers selected for an examination, you will be treated in a courteous, professional, and dignified manner. CBP Supervisors and Passenger Service Representatives are available to answer your questions. Comment cards are available to compliment or provide feedback.

Important Information

U.S. Residents—Declare all articles that you have acquired abroad and are bringing into the United States.

Visitors (Non-Residents)—Declare the value of all articles that will remain in the United States.

Declare all articles on this declaration form and show the value in U.S. dollars. For gifts, please indicate the retail value.

Duty—CBP officers will determine duty. U.S. residents are normally entitled to a duty-free exemption of $800 on items accompanying them. Visitors (non-residents) are normally entitled to an exemption of $100. Duty will be assessed at the current rate on the first $1,000 above the exemption.

Agricultural and Wildlife Products—To prevent the entry of dangerous agricultural pests and prohibited wildlife, the following are restricted: Fruits, vegetables, plants, plant products, soil, meat, meat products, birds, snails, and other live animals or animal products. Failure to declare such items to a Customs and Border Protection Officer/ Customs and Border Protection Agriculture Specialist/Fish and Wildlife Inspector can result in penalties and the items may be subject to seizure.

Controlled substances, obscene articles, and toxic substances are generally prohibited entry. The importation of merchandise into the U.S. that infringes intellectual property rights may subject travelers to civil or criminal penalties and may pose serious risk to safety or health.

The transportation of currency or monetary instruments, regardless of the amount, is legal. However, if you bring into or take out of the United States more than $10,000 (U.S. or foreign equivalent, or a combination of both), you are required by law to file a report on FinCEN 105 (formerly Customs Form 4790) with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Monetary instruments include coin, currency, travelers checks and bearer instruments such as personal or cashiers checks and stocks and bonds. If you have someone else carry the currency or monetary instrument for you, you must also file a report on FinCEN 105. Failure to file the required report or failure to report the total amount that you are carrying may lead to the seizure of all the currency or monetary instruments, and may subject you to civil penalties and/or criminal prosecution. SIGN ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE OF THIS FORM AFTER YOU HAVE READ THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOVE AND MADE A TRUTHFUL DECLARATION.

Description of Articles

 

 

CBP

(List may continue on another CBP Form 6059B)

 

Value

Use Only

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT: An agency may not conduct or sponsor an information collection and a person is not required to respond to this information unless it displays a current valid OMB control number. The control number for this collection is 1651-0009. The estimated average time to complete this application is 4 minutes. Your response is mandatory. If you have any comments regarding the burden estimate you can write to U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Regulations and Rulings, 90 K Street, NE, 10th Floor, Washington, DC 20229.

CBP Form 6059B (11/16)

CBP Form 6059B (11/16)

Document Specs

Fact Description
Name of Form CBP Form 6059B
Purpose Used by travelers to declare articles being brought into the United States
Who Must Fill It Out All travelers entering the United States
Language Availability Available in multiple languages to assist non-English speakers
Electronic Version An electronic version is available, known as the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)
Customs Declaration Acts as a customs declaration form for U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Required Information Travelers must report items such as fruits, meats, money over $10,000, and other items purchased abroad
Penalties for False Statements Travelers making false statements can face penalties, including fines or other legal consequences
Submission Deadline Must be submitted upon arrival at the first port of entry in the United States
Governing Laws Managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection under the Department of Homeland Security

CBP 6059B: Usage Guide

When returning to the United States or entering for the first time, travelers are required to declare their belongings to Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The CBP Form 6059B is the official document for this process. Filling it out correctly is crucial to ensure a smooth passage through customs. Below, you will find a simplified guide on how to complete this form. Rest assured, each step is designed to be straightforward, leading you through the necessary information without confusion.

  1. Start by entering your family name, first name, and middle name in the designated spaces. Ensure that these details match the information in your passport.
  2. Write down your birth date in the format of month/day/year. Next to it, specify your country of citizenship.
  3. Fill in your passport number and the country where it was issued. If you're using a document other than a passport for entry, provide those details accordingly.
  4. Provide your country of residence and the details of your traveling companions if you're part of a family or group using the same form.
  5. Indicate the countries you visited prior to arriving in the United States, not including your country of residence.
  6. Enter the address where you will stay in the U.S. (for non-U.S. residents). U.S. residents should include their home address.
  7. List the amount of money, in U.S. dollars, that you are bringing into the country, including foreign currency equivalent.
  8. Mark the appropriate boxes to answer questions regarding your engagement in various activities or the possession of certain goods, such as commercial merchandise, monetary instruments over $10,000, or samples for solicitation.
  9. If applicable, declare all items you are bringing with you that you did not have when leaving the United States, including foreign purchases, gifts, or items purchased in duty-free shops. Be specific about the number of items and their total value.
  10. For each family member traveling with you, use a separate line to declare their items, ensuring you accurately report everything as required.
  11. Review the form for completeness and accuracy. An adult family member must sign and date the form at the bottom.

After filling out the form, proceed to the CBP entry point where an officer will review your declarations. Answer all questions the officer asks honestly, and provide any additional documentation if required. This process is designed to protect both the country's residents and visitors, ensuring a safe and efficient entryway for all who cross the border.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please find below a list of frequently asked questions regarding the CBP 6059B form, commonly known as the Customs Declaration form, required for entry into the United States.

  1. What is the CBP 6059B form?

    The CBP 6059B form, or Customs Declaration form, is a document that all travelers are required to complete when entering the United States. It is used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to identify eligible entries, declare goods, and understand the nature of the goods being brought into the country.

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

    Every traveler arriving in the United States by air, sea, or land is required to complete the CBP 6059B form. This includes U.S. citizens, residents, and visitors. Families traveling together can complete one form per family if they reside at the same address.

  3. What information is required on the CBP 6059B form?

    Travelers are asked to provide personal information, such as name, date of birth, and passport details. They must also declare any items subject to duty or restrictions, including food products, amounts over $10,000 in currency, commercial merchandise, or other items purchased abroad.

  4. How do I submit the CBP 6059B form?

    The form can be submitted in paper format upon arrival or electronically through Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks located at several airports. The method of submission may vary depending on the port of entry.

  5. What happens if I fail to declare items on the CBP 6059B form?

    Failure to declare items accurately can result in penalties, including fines or seizures of the undeclared items. In some cases, failure to declare may lead to criminal charges.

  6. Can I amend my CBP 6059B form after submission?

    Yes, if you realize you have made an error or omission on your form, you should notify a CBP officer immediately. Corrections are allowed, but they must be made before leaving the customs area.

  7. Is there a digital version of the CBP 6059B form?

    Yes, in addition to the paper format, travelers can use the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app to submit their customs declaration form electronically. This option is available at select airports and requires downloading the official app.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Form 6059B, or the "Customs Declaration Form," is a requirement for travelers entering the United States. This document plays a crucial role in declaring goods and may seem straightforward, but errors can easily occur. Here are seven common mistakes people make:

  1. Not reading the instructions carefully: The form requires attention to detail. Skipping or misinterpreting the instructions can lead to incorrect or incomplete information.

  2. Filling out the form in a hurry: Rushing through the form can lead to mistakes. It's important to take your time and ensure all information is accurate and legible.

  3. Omitting necessary information: Every question needs an answer. Leaving fields blank because you're unsure or because you think they're not applicable to you can cause delays.

  4. Inaccurate value declaration: Underestimating or overestimating the value of goods can lead to issues with customs. It's essential to declare the true value of all items you're bringing into the country.

  5. Forgetting to declare food products: Many travelers are unaware that they need to declare all food items. Not doing so, even for items that may seem trivial, can result in fines.

  6. Misunderstanding what needs to be declared: It's important to understand that not only purchased goods but also items received as gifts or inherited must be declared.

  7. Incorrectly reporting currency: If you're carrying more than $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments, you must declare it. Failing to report or misreporting the amount can have serious consequences.

Avoiding these mistakes can make your entry into the United States smoother and prevent potential legal issues. It's always better to review your form thoroughly and ask for clarification if you're unsure about how to answer a particular question. Customs officers are there to help ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible.

Documents used along the form

When traveling into the United States, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Form 6059B, often known as the Declaration Form, is a primary document that travelers must complete. It provides information on what you are bringing into the country, including goods for sale, samples used for soliciting orders, or gifts. While the CBP 6059B form is essential, several other documents are commonly used alongside it to ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations and to facilitate a smoother entry process. Here's a look at some of these key documents:

  • Passport: A valid passport is required for all international travel. It is the primary form of identification for international travelers and must be presented upon entry and exit from the U.S.
  • Visa: Depending on your country of citizenship and reason for travel, a valid visa may be required to enter the United States. It grants permission to apply for entry into the country for a specific purpose and duration.
  • Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record: This form records a traveler's entry and departure dates from the U.S. It's used to determine the length of stay and compliance with visa conditions. It is now mostly automated but may still be required in paper form for land border crossings.
  • Proof of Vaccination: For health and safety reasons, travelers might need to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases, depending on current public health guidelines and requirements.
  • Customs Declaration Form (for countries other than the U.S.): If stopping or transiting through other countries, additional customs declaration forms for those countries may be needed.
  • Flight Itinerary: A copy of your flight schedule or itinerary showing your flight numbers, dates of travel, and destination can be helpful, especially if questioned about your travel plans.
  • Luggage Claim Tickets: For verification of baggage, especially if inquiries arise regarding items declared on the CBP 6059B form.

Each of these documents plays a critical role in the international travel process, complementing the information provided on the CBP 6059B form. Travelers should prepare and organize these documents well in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into the United States. Understanding the purpose and requirement of each document can significantly enhance the travel experience, helping individuals navigate through customs with confidence.

Similar forms

  • ESTA Application: The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) application is similar to the CBP 6059B form in that both are required for international travelers entering the United States. The ESTA application gathers biographic information to assess travelers' eligibility under the Visa Waiver Program.

  • I-94 Arrival/Departure Record: This form is akin to the CBP 6059B as it records arrival and departure dates for travelers entering and leaving the U.S. It's used to track a visitor's length of stay, similar to how the CBP 6059B ensures compliance with U.S. customs regulations.

  • Global Entry Application: Similar to the CBP 6059B, the Global Entry application process involves providing detailed personal information to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This pre-approval process is designed for expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the U.S.

  • TSA PreCheck Application: While focused on expedited security screening for flights originating from the U.S., the TSA PreCheck Application requires similar background information from travelers as the CBP 6059B, aiming to streamline the security process.

  • DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application: The DS-160 is a comprehensive form required for those seeking to enter the United States on a temporary basis. Like the CBP 6059B, it gathers detailed information about the applicant for security and documentation purposes.

  • I-131 Application for Travel Document: This application is similar to the CBP 6059B as it is used by individuals looking to re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad. It ensures that the applicant has the necessary permission to return, much like how the CBP 6059B controls what is brought into the country.

  • Customs Declaration Form of Other Countries: Many countries have their own version of a customs declaration form, similar in purpose to the CBP 6059B. These forms are used to declare items of value to customs authorities, ensuring adherence to local laws regarding imports and taxable goods.

  • APHIS Form 7001: The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Form 7001 is for the international and interstate movement of animals. Similar to the CBP 6059B's role in declaring goods, this form declares animal health status to ensure compliance with health regulations.

  • I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification: Although primarily used within the U.S. for employment purposes, the I-9 form shares the concept of verification with the CBP 6059B. It requires documentation to verify an employee's eligibility to work in the U.S., focusing on legal and documentation compliance.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the CBP 6059B form, a document required for travelers entering the United States to declare their goods, there are essential do's and don'ts to ensure the process is smooth and compliant with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations. Below are six critical points to consider.

  • Do thoroughly review all questions before responding. Accuracy is crucial to prevent any legal complications or delays in your entry process.
  • Do declare all items acquired abroad, including gifts and purchases for yourself or others, to ensure compliance with U.S. laws and avoid penalties.
  • Do use the currency of the United States (U.S. dollars) when reporting the value of each declared item, to maintain consistency and prevent confusion.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form, as an unsigned form is considered incomplete and could result in delays or further inspection.
  • Don't bring prohibited items into the U.S. without declaring them. Understanding what items are prohibited or restricted is essential to avoid confiscation or legal issues.
  • Don't underestimate the value of your items to avoid taxes or duties. Misrepresentation can lead to fines, penalties, or legal prosecution.

Properly completing the CBP 6059B form is vital for a smooth entry into the United States. Travelers who take the time to accurately and honestly complete their forms contribute to a faster, more efficient customs process for themselves and others.

Misconceptions

Traveling to the United States involves several procedures, including filling out the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Form 6059B, also known as the "Customs Declaration Form." This form is crucial for all travelers entering the country, but there are several misconceptions about it. Let's clarify six common misunderstandings:

  • Only non-residents need to complete it. Both U.S. citizens and visitors to the United States must fill out the CBP Form 6059B. This form is used to declare items to customs officials, and everyone entering the country is required to declare certain items, regardless of their citizenship status.

  • Electronics don’t need to be declared. All travelers must declare items they are bringing into the country, including electronics, that may be subject to customs duties. The form specifically asks for information about goods you are bringing into the United States that will remain in the country.

  • Food products are always prohibited. Not all food products are prohibited. While certain food items, like some fruits, vegetables, and meats, may be restricted due to agriculture and health concerns, other food items can be brought into the United States if properly declared. It is best to check the most current regulations before traveling.

  • You don’t need to declare items you’re bringing as gifts. Gifts are subject to the same declaration requirements as other goods. If you are bringing gifts into the United States, their value must be included in your total declaration.

  • Filling out the form is complicated and time-consuming. While the form does require detail, it is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly. Reading the instructions carefully and preparing in advance by knowing what you need to declare can simplify the process.

  • If you make a mistake, you’re in big trouble. Making an honest mistake on your form does not automatically result in penalties. Customs and Border Protection officers are aware that honest mistakes can happen. If you realize you made a mistake, the best course of action is to report it to an officer as soon as possible.

Understanding the requirements and expectations for the CBP Form 6059B can make entering the United States a smoother process. Clearing up these misconceptions helps travelers prepare appropriately and avoid unnecessary stress at customs.

Key takeaways

The CBP Form 6059B, known as the Customs Declaration form, is a document that travelers entering the United States must fill out. It requires precise details about the items you're bringing into the country, including purchases and gifts. Here are ten key takeaways to remember when filling out and using this form:

  • Accuracy is crucial: Ensure all the information you provide on the CBP Form 6059B is accurate to the best of your knowledge. Inaccuracies can lead to delays, penalties, or even confiscation of undeclared items.
  • Every traveler must fill out a form: Each traveler or a responsible family member must complete a form for their family group. Families traveling together can fill out a single form.
  • Declare all items: You must declare all items you are bringing into the U.S., including items intended as gifts or for personal use.
  • Know the exemptions: Certain exemptions apply to goods brought into the U.S. Familiarizing yourself with these can help you understand what needs to be declared and what is exempt.
  • Monetary declarations: If you are carrying more than $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments, you must declare this amount on the form.
  • Food and agricultural products: Declare all food items and agricultural products, as these are subject to strict regulations and inspections.
  • Digital submission may be available: Some airports and entry points into the U.S. offer digital submission of the CBP Form 6059B, simplifying the process.
  • Misdeclaration can lead to penalties: Failing to declare items accurately can result in fines, and in some cases, criminal charges.
  • Keep the form handy: After filling out the form, keep it with your travel documents to present to the CBP officer upon arrival.
  • Understand duty obligations: Depending on the value and type of items you are bringing into the U.S., you may be required to pay duty at the time of entry.

Filling out the CBP Form 6059B diligently and understanding its requirements can make your entry into the United States smoother and more efficient. It’s an essential part of complying with U.S. customs regulations and ensures that you can enjoy your stay without any legal complications.

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