US Arrival Card Guide: ESTA, Green Card & Travel Tips for Australians
Traveling to the United States for the first time can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to immigration and customs.
One of the key documents you might come across upon arrival is the US arrival card, officially known as the CBP Declaration Form 6059B.
This guide explains what it is, who needs to fill it out, and what Singapore travelers should know when entering the U.S.
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What is the US Arrival Card?
The US arrival card is a customs declaration form used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It records details about your trip, passport, and the goods you are carrying.
While many U.S. airports have switched to automated kiosks and mobile apps, some international travelers may still be asked to complete the paper form before clearing immigration.
It is primarily used to:
- Record your personal and passport information.
- State the purpose of your trip.
- Declare the items and currency you are carrying.
- Ensure compliance with U.S. customs, agriculture, and immigration regulations.
Who Needs the US Arrival Card?
Non-U.S. citizens
This includes anyone entering the United States by air, land, or sea.
Whether you are flying into a major international airport, arriving on a cruise ship, or crossing a land border from Canada or Mexico, you may be asked to present the arrival card and declare the purpose of your visit as well as the items you are carrying.
Tourists, students, and business travelers
Short-term visitors like vacationing tourists, international students attending U.S. universities, and professionals traveling for business are among the most common groups who need to complete the form.
This helps U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) verify their travel purpose and ensure compliance with entry regulations.
Immigrant visa holders
Travelers entering the United States on an immigrant visa—those planning to live permanently in the U.S.—will also be asked to provide detailed information upon entry.
This process works alongside immigration procedures like receiving a temporary I-551 stamp or waiting for a green card after arrival.
U.S. citizens and permanent residents
While U.S. citizens and green card holders typically use faster entry methods such as Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks or the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app, there are circumstances where they may still need to complete the declaration card.
For example, when traveling with family members who are foreign nationals, or when carrying items that require declaration (such as food, plants, or cash over USD 10,000). In such cases, one arrival card can often cover the entire family group, making the process quicker and easier.
Information Required on the US Arrival Card
| Section | What to Provide | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
Full name | Your full name exactly as it appears in your passport, including given name(s) and last name. | Ensures consistency between your travel documents and declaration card, preventing delays. |
Passport details | Passport number, country of issuance, and expiration date. | Allows CBP officers to confirm your identity and verify travel document validity. |
Date of birth & nationality | Your date of birth and country of citizenship. | Confirms your personal identity and eligibility under specific U.S. entry rules (e.g., Visa Waiver Program). |
Flight number or vessel name | Your flight number (for air travel) or vessel name (for sea travel). | Helps immigration authorities track your point of entry into the U.S. |
U.S. address | The address where you will be staying in the U.S. (hotel, family home, student housing, etc.). Even transit passengers must provide the address of their first stop. | Provides U.S. authorities with a contact point during your stay. |
Purpose of travel | State your reason for visiting: tourism, business, study, work, or immigration. | Ensures your travel purpose matches your visa or ESTA authorization. |
Items to declare | List any food, plants, agricultural products, goods for resale, or cash over $10,000. | Protects U.S. borders from prohibited goods and helps you avoid fines. |
Travel history questions | Answer if you’ve recently visited certain countries or have been exposed to livestock/agriculture. | Helps prevent the spread of pests, diseases, and other biosecurity risks. |
How to Fill Out the US Arrival Card
US Green Card
Many travelers confuse the US arrival card with U.S. immigration procedures for permanent residency. Here’s what you should know:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
Countries Offering Visa on Arrival for US Green Card Holders | There is no such thing as a U.S. green card visa on arrival. Unlike some countries that offer “visa on arrival,” the U.S. requires: • An approved ESTA (for Visa Waiver Program countries like Singapore) • A valid U.S. visa (tourist, student, work, or immigrant visa) • Or lawful permanent resident status (green card holder). |
How Long Does It Take to Get a Green Card After Arriving in the US | If you enter the U.S. on an immigrant visa, your green card process begins after arrival: • You will receive a temporary I-551 stamp in your passport upon entry. • The physical green card is mailed within 2 to 6 months, depending on USCIS processing times. |
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Tips for Singapore Travelers
| Tips | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
Apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before departure | ESTA approval can take up to 3 days. Applying early helps you avoid any last-minute travel stress. |
Declare all food items, including snacks | Even small items must be declared to avoid fines or confiscation. |
Keep your passport, ESTA, and US arrival card handy | Having your documents ready speeds up the immigration process. |
When in doubt, always declare your goods | CBP officers will advise you—declaring is safer than risking penalties. |
Usually, one form per family is allowed | Saves time at immigration and simplifies the declaration process. |
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FAQs about US Arrival Card
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Do Singapore travellers still need to fill out a US arrival card?
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Can Singaporeans enter the U.S. without a visa?
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How long does it take to get a green card after arrival in the U.S.?
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Is there a US green card visa on arrival for Singaporeans?
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