Much as Leopard owners love the open seas, sooner or later, we must make landfall. If your cruising itinerary calls for a stop in the United States ”” as homeport or port of call ”” you’ll want to be up-to-date on the country’s current requirements and procedures for entry and reentry.
Here’s an overview to help you glide into the U.S. on smooth regulatory waters.
When Do I Need To Call Customs?
Every boat that has visited a foreign port during its travels must immediately report its arrival in the U.S. to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) authorities. You have “arrived” the first time you dock or drop anchor. While this report can be made in person or via phone, you won’t be surprised to learn there’s an app for that.
Can I Clear In By Video Chat?
CBP’s Reporting Offsite Arrival – Mobile (ROAM) app allows many pleasure boat operators to report their arrival electronically using a smartphone or tablet. After submitting your vessel, passenger, and trip information, a CBP officer reviews the submission and may initiate a video interview if additional verification is needed. Once approved, you’ll receive your entry decision through the app and by email. Keep in mind that some travelers—including those requiring an I-94, those importing dutiable goods, or travelers in other specific circumstances—may still be required to report in person.
What If I Am Not A US Citizen?
Non-U.S. citizens should ensure they have the appropriate travel documents and visas before arriving in the United States. Depending on their immigration status, travelers who require an I-94 or additional immigration processing may be required to complete an in-person inspection with CBP, even if the vessel’s arrival is reported through the ROAM app.
What If CBP Wants To Visit My Boat?
In preparation for a possible CBP visit, make sure you have every passenger’s travel documents and the boat’s ownership papers. American citizens should have proof of citizenship. Before your trip, be sure to review the government’s list of items banned from import. That knowledge could save you money, time and regulatory hassles.
It’s also a good idea to double-check that your boat is in compliance with the U.S. Coast Guard’s safety and environmental regulations. While CBP does not enforce such rules, it will report notable violations to the Coast Guard.
What Do I Do After CBP Leave?
Once you’ve passed muster with CBP, your entry approval is delivered via push notices on the ROAM app and email.
(Note: Because the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands have their own customs procedures, cruisers coming from the mainland U.S. must check in with local authorities just as if the boat was arriving from a foreign country.)
Are There Any More Ways to Simplify Reentry?
Frequent cruisers should purchase a CBP Decal and Transponder Online Procurement System (DTOPS) annual user fee decal, which is required for many private vessels entering the United States and helps streamline the arrival process. The decal must be renewed annually and can be purchased online before your voyage.
If your vessel is foreign-registered, you may be eligible for a CBP Cruising License, which can simplify domestic movement between U.S. ports during your visit by reducing additional reporting requirements. Eligibility depends on your vessel’s country of registration and current CBP regulations. You must still comply with departure reporting requirements when leaving U.S. waters.
Before you depart, it’s always a good idea to review the latest CBP guidance, as reporting procedures, documentation requirements, and inspection policies can change. The official CBP website and the CBP ROAM app provide the most current information for recreational boaters entering U.S. waters.
Bottom Line
Entering the U.S. is like any other task on your Leopard, forethought and preparation make everything go more smoothly.
