14 Things to Never Say to Customs Officers That Could Get You in Trouble
The thrill of traveling internationally can be just breathtaking, but at the customs checkpoint, your adventure can quickly become less enjoyable. Customs officers are professionals trained to protect national security and do their job very seriously.
Your customs inspection is very much dependent on what you say. A seemingly innocent comment can be enough to make you suspicious or have you questioned or detained. Here are a few things you should absolutely avoid saying to customs officers to keep your travels happy and hassle free.
“Well, I Don’t Know What’s in My Bag”
Travelers should never be unaware of what is in their luggage. Saying you don’t know could mean you have something you shouldn’t and are unaware of the fact. This statement could trigger extended inspections, as the officers would have to ensure your luggage is free of contraband.
“I Didn’t Declare Something”
If you fail to declare items that need to be declared, you may be fined or in some instances you may be taken to court. It is always a good idea to double check your declaration form before you go up to customs and be honest about what you are bringing into the country. The law does not see forgetting as an excuse.
“How Long Am I Supposed to Be Here?”
An annoyed display is disrespectful to a customs officer. Their job is to make sure that those who enter the country follow its laws, and that can take time. Getting frustrated about the delay might make you look suspicious or non compliant.
“I’m Here to Work, but I Don’t Have a Work Visa”
Customs officers take offense if you plan your work activities on a tourist visa. If you do not understand this you can get sent back on a plane home. Immigration lawyers and travel experts say it’s important to have the right visa type for your purpose in the country.
“I Have Nothing to Declare”
Saying that you have nothing to declare even though you believe this to be the case, can look suspicious if you have a lot of luggage. They might think you want to get around import regulations. So, always first check the customs regulations to see if you will have to declare anything you’re carrying.
“I Didn’t Know That Was Against the Law”
Ignorance of the law is no excuse. Before you go on the trip, research what is prohibited or banned from entry into the country you are visiting. Check the country’s customs website before you travel, it could save you a lot of trouble.
“I Just Wanna Go Through, I’m Tired”
Jokes about bypassing customs procedures or of the officer’s duties are not welcome at customs. If someone tells you something like this, you probably think of them trying to bypass the standard security checks.
“I’ve Some Things for a Friend”
If you carry items across the border for other people they may contain illegal or undeclared items and you could be liable. Never carry for someone who isn’t travelling with you and always know exactly what you are transporting.
“Can You Hurry Up?”
Running from a customs officer can make you look like you’re trying to hide something or that you think your time is more important than the security protocols of the country. It’s best just to stay calm and let the officer do what he needs to do.
“I Use (Illegal Substances)”
Talking about substance use, even where it’s legal, can get you further questioned. Laws about narcotics are completely different from country to country and mentioning use can get border officials very suspicious of smuggling or habitual possession.
“I Packed This Last Minute”
This statement can make the officials doubt what’s in your luggage and if you really know what’s in there. Packing in a hurry can result in forgetting what you are allowed and what you are not allowed to bring.
“You Can’t Check My Devices”
Refusal to allow customs to search your electronic device, such as your smartphone, tablet or laptop, can be considered obstructive or suspicious. The American Civil Liberties Union says officers have the right to inspect your devices as you cross the border.
“Do You Know Who I Am?”
Trying to use your status, real or not, to get a customs officer to do your bidding can get you into trouble. It can sound arrogant and also look like an effort to dodge standard procedures.
“This Is Ridiculous”
Never criticize the customs process or its officers. Criticizing them can create unnecessary tension and conflict. Keeping a polite demeanor will ensure the process goes more quickly and smoothly.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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