Legal Definitions - port of entry

A port of entry is a government-designated location where individuals and goods are legally permitted to enter a country or customs territory. These locations are equipped with the necessary facilities and personnel, such as customs and immigration officers, to inspect incoming travelers, cargo, and vehicles. The purpose of a port of entry is to ensure compliance with national laws and regulations concerning immigration, customs duties, health, and security.

• Example 1 (International Air Travel): A business traveler flies from Tokyo, Japan, to San Francisco, California. Upon arrival at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), the traveler must present their passport and visa (if required) to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer. SFO functions as a port of entry because it is a designated airport where international passengers undergo legal inspection and processing before being granted permission to enter the United States.

• Example 2 (Commercial Goods by Land): A Canadian manufacturing company ships a large consignment of automotive parts by truck into the United States. The truck must stop at the Ambassador Bridge crossing, which connects Windsor, Ontario, with Detroit, Michigan. This bridge crossing serves as a port of entry for commercial goods, as it is a specific location where U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers inspect the cargo, verify documentation, and collect any applicable duties before the parts can legally enter the U.S. market.

• Example 3 (Cruise Ship Arrival): A cruise ship carrying passengers from various international destinations completes its journey and docks at the Port of Seattle in Washington state. Before passengers can disembark and explore the city, they must pass through immigration and customs checks conducted by federal agents at the cruise terminal. The Port of Seattle's cruise terminal acts as a port of entry, providing the official gateway for international sea travelers to legally enter the United States.