What must everyone arriving in the U.S. do upon entry?

Upon entry into the United States, individuals must arrive at a port of entry (POE). This is the designated location where travelers are processed for entry into the country. Ports of entry are staffed by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers who have the authority to inspect individuals, their luggage, and any goods being brought into the country, ensuring compliance with U.S. laws and regulations.

Completing a customs declaration and submitting a health certificate are important steps for travelers, especially concerning customs regulations and health safety protocols, but these typically occur as part of the process after arriving at a port of entry. Registering is not universally required for all individuals entering the U.S. Therefore, arriving at a POE is the foundational action that initiates the entry process into the country.