In this article you’ll learn how to go through customs/passport control in an international airport, answering questions in English.
Everyone who travels to another country, whether on a business trip or for leisure, must go through customs/passport control. This article will be especially helpful to those who are just getting ready to take a trip abroad and don’t know all of the issues that can arise at passport control.
You might also be interested in our definitive guide to the most useful phrases for travel and travelers.
Remain Calm, Just Remain Calm…
That is the key phrase of this article. If you want to get through customs/passport control quickly and “painlessly,” you should look extremely confident and calm when the customs officer asks you different questions. Answer loudly, clearly, and briefly. Don’t think for a long time before you answer. Sometimes the questions just require “yes” or “no” as an answer.
Also, remember that you should have all necessary documents ready (visa, work permit, birth certificate, etc.) so you can give them to the customs officer if needed.
Basic Questions You’ll Have to Answer in English
This isn’t a complete list of all the questions you’ll be asked at passport control. But these are the basic, standard questions that you’ll have to answer in English. It all depends on the situation and on how you answer. Remember, don’t panic. If you have nothing to hide, they’ll have nothing to look for. The more nervous you are, the more questions they’ll ask.
So, let’s get on with the questions…
- What is your final destination?
In other words, where are you going? Where are you flying to?
You can answer with one word – the name of the city.
For example:
– What is your final destination?
– Chicago/Paris/Madrid.
- How long will you be staying in the U.S.?
Even if you have an “open ticket,” don’t say “I don’t know.”
This will automatically arouse suspicion.
Say a definite period of time – a week, a month, a year, etc., and be prepared to show your ticket.
Instead of the U.S., you can say any other destination.
- What is the purpose of your visit?
You can answer this way:
- I came to visit my parents/relatives/friends
- Travelling
- To work
- I’m transiting here
You may be required to show documents, for example, a work permit, invitation, etc.
- Where will you be staying?
Where will you stay? This is a very important question, so again, give a specific answer. Give the address of relatives, friends, hotel, hostel, etc.
- How much currency are you carrying with you?
It all depends on the country. When travelling to the USA, for example, you can bring up to $10,000 into the country without declaring it.
Be very careful with this and be sure of the correct information ahead of time.
It’s good to be specific when answering this question: $1,000, $2,000, $500, etc.
- Who packed your bags?
Answer this question firmly: “I packed them myself.”
If you are asked if someone gave you a gift to bring, or if you left your bags anywhere unattended, say “no.” Otherwise, your bags will be opened and carefully searched.
- Do you have anything to declare?
Before flying to another country, check the list of what you need to declare. Every country has its own laws.
If you have nothing that you need to declare, simply say “I have nothing to declare.”
Don’t worry about your English. The passport control/customs officials are not concerned about how well you speak or about whether or not you make mistakes. The important thing is to answer quickly, confidently, and calmly.
Have a good trip!
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