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Misconceptions

The CBP 6059B form is often misunderstood. Here are some common misconceptions about this important document:

  1. It’s only for U.S. citizens. The CBP 6059B form is required for all travelers entering the United States, regardless of citizenship status.
  2. It is only needed for air travel. This form is necessary for all modes of entry, including land and sea travel, not just air.
  3. It can be filled out after arrival. Travelers must complete the form before arriving at U.S. customs, either online or on paper.
  4. Only adults need to fill it out. Every traveler, including children, must have their own CBP 6059B form completed.
  5. It’s only about declaring goods. While the form does ask about goods, it also collects information about the traveler’s purpose of entry and travel plans.
  6. It’s not important. Failing to complete the form accurately can lead to delays, fines, or even denial of entry into the U.S.
  7. It’s the same as the customs declaration form. The CBP 6059B form is different from the customs declaration form. They serve different purposes in the entry process.
  8. It can be ignored if I have a visa. A visa does not replace the need for the CBP 6059B form. Both are required for entry into the U.S.
  9. Once filled out, it doesn’t need to be kept. Travelers should keep a copy of the completed form for their records, as it may be needed for future reference.

File Details

Fact Name Details
Purpose The CBP 6059B form is used for declaring items brought into the United States by travelers.
Who Needs It All travelers entering the U.S. must complete this form if they are bringing items subject to declaration.
Where to Obtain The form is available at U.S. ports of entry and online through the Customs and Border Protection website.
Filing Method Travelers can fill out the form on paper or electronically, depending on the port of entry's facilities.
Information Required Travelers must provide details about the items they are bringing, including value and quantity.
Consequences of Non-Compliance Failure to declare items can result in fines, confiscation of items, or even legal action.
Governing Laws The form is governed by U.S. Customs laws, specifically Title 19 of the U.S. Code.
Important Deadlines The form must be submitted at the time of entry into the United States.
Exempt Items Some items, like personal effects and gifts below a certain value, may be exempt from declaration.
Assistance Customs officers are available to help travelers with questions about the form and the declaration process.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the CBP 6059B form, keep the following key points in mind:

  • The CBP 6059B form is required for all travelers entering the United States.
  • Ensure that you provide accurate information about your travel plans and personal details.
  • Completing the form helps Customs and Border Protection (CBP) assess your eligibility for entry.
  • It’s essential to declare any items you are bringing into the country, including food, plants, and animals.
  • Make sure to sign and date the form before submission; an unsigned form may delay processing.
  • The form is typically distributed on flights heading to the U.S. or can be found at ports of entry.
  • Keep a copy of the completed form for your records, as it may be useful during your travels.
  • Filling out the form accurately can expedite your entry process at customs.
  • Inaccurate or incomplete information may lead to fines or delays in processing.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the CBP 6059B form, it's important to be mindful of certain practices to ensure a smooth process. Here’s a list of things you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Do provide accurate and truthful information.
  • Do ensure that all required fields are filled out completely.
  • Do double-check your form for any errors before submission.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Don't leave any mandatory sections blank.
  • Don't use abbreviations or shorthand that may confuse the reviewer.
  • Don't submit the form without checking for spelling mistakes.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form where required.
  • Don't rush through the process; take your time to ensure accuracy.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Many individuals fail to fill out all required fields, leaving sections blank. This can lead to delays or rejections of their application.

  2. Incorrect Personal Details: Mistakes in names, dates of birth, or passport numbers can create significant issues. Always double-check that these details match official documents.

  3. Failure to Sign: Some people forget to sign the form altogether. A missing signature can render the form invalid, requiring resubmission.

  4. Providing Outdated Information: Using old or expired documents for reference can lead to incorrect entries. Always ensure that the information is current and accurate.

  5. Ignoring Instructions: The form comes with specific guidelines. Not following these instructions can result in errors that complicate the processing of the application.

  6. Using Abbreviations: Some individuals use abbreviations for names or places. It is best to write out full names to avoid confusion.

  7. Incorrect Format: Filling out the form in the wrong format, such as not using the correct date format, can lead to misunderstandings and potential delays.

  8. Neglecting to Review: Skipping the review process before submission can lead to overlooked mistakes. Always take a moment to go over the completed form.

  9. Not Keeping a Copy: Failing to keep a copy of the submitted form can create problems if there are questions or if a follow-up is needed later.

  10. Submitting Late: Some individuals do not pay attention to deadlines. Late submissions can result in additional fees or denial of entry.

What You Should Know About This Form

  1. What is the CBP 6059B form?

    The CBP 6059B form is a declaration form used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is primarily required for individuals entering the United States. This form helps CBP collect important information about travelers, including their personal details, travel itinerary, and any items they may be bringing into the country.

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

    All travelers entering the United States, including U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and foreign visitors, are required to complete the CBP 6059B form. Each individual must submit their own form, even if they are traveling as part of a group or family. Children, including infants, also need a separate form.

  3. How do I obtain the CBP 6059B form?

    The CBP 6059B form is typically provided by airlines or other transportation carriers during the journey to the U.S. You may receive it on the plane or at the port of entry. Additionally, you can access the form online through the CBP website if you wish to review it before your travel.

  4. What should I do if I make a mistake on the CBP 6059B form?

    If you realize that you have made a mistake on your CBP 6059B form, don’t worry. It’s important to correct any errors before you submit the form to CBP officials. You can simply cross out the incorrect information and write in the correct details. If the mistake is significant, you may want to ask a CBP officer for guidance when you arrive in the U.S.

CBP 6059B Example

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)