What is a B1/B2 Visa? Your Complete Guide to U.S. Visitor Visas

Planning to visit the United States for business or pleasure? A B1/B2 visa might be exactly what you need. This dual-purpose visitor visa opens doors for temporary stays in the U.S., whether you’re attending meetings, exploring tourist destinations, or visiting family.

Understanding B1/B2 Visas: The Basics

What is a B1/B2 visa? It’s a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to enter the United States temporarily for business (B1) or tourism, pleasure, or medical treatment (B2).

Unlike separate visa categories, the B1/B2 is a combined visa that offers flexibility for travelers whose trips may include multiple purposes. For example, you might attend a conference (B1) and then spend a week sightseeing (B2) without needing two different visas.

Each year, millions of travelers use B1/B2 visas to enter the United States. This visitor visa is the most common non-immigrant visa issued by U.S. consulates worldwide.

How B1/B2 Visas Differ From Other Visa Types

It’s important to understand what is the difference between a B1 and B2 visa. While often issued together as a B1/B2, these categories serve different purposes:

B1 (Business): For business-related activities without actual employment
B2 (Tourism/Pleasure): For vacation, visiting family, or medical treatment

Other common U.S. visa categories include:

F-1 Student Visa: For academic studies at accredited U.S. institutions
J-1 Exchange Visitor: For educational and cultural exchange programs
H-1B Work Visa: For specialized employment positions
EB-1 Visa: For individuals with extraordinary abilities or achievements
K-1 Fiancé(e): For foreign nationals engaged to U.S. citizens

The B1/B2 visa is specifically designed for temporary visits without the intent to immigrate, study long-term, or engage in employment. If your purpose aligns with another visa category, you should apply for that specific visa instead.

Common Challenges with B1/B2 Visas

Applying for a U.S. visa can feel overwhelming. Many applicants face these specific hurdles:

Proving non-immigrant intent: Convincing consular officers you’ll return home
Documentation gaps: Missing crucial evidence of ties to your home country
Interview anxiety: Feeling unprepared for consular questions
Processing delays: Experiencing unexpected administrative processing
Previous denials: Overcoming past visa refusals

Without proper guidance, even qualified travelers face rejection rates as high as 40% for certain nationalities. Each denial comes with consequences:

Lost application fees ($160 per attempt)
Postponed or canceled business opportunities
Missed family celebrations and reunions
Emotional distress and uncertainty
Additional scrutiny on future applications

Juan, a business owner from Colombia, described his experience: “My first B1/B2 application was denied because I couldn’t clearly explain my business purpose. With proper guidance on my second attempt, I presented a complete travel itinerary and business documentation. The difference was night and day.”

The Impact of Country of Origin on Application Success

Approval rates vary significantly based on your country of citizenship. Factors that influence consular decisions include:

Economic conditions in your home country
Immigration violation patterns from your region
Bilateral relationships between your country and the U.S.
Visa refusal statistics for your nationality

Countries with high visa refusal rates often require applicants to provide stronger evidence of ties to home and non-immigrant intent. Our attorneys can help you understand the specific concerns that might apply to your nationality and how to address them effectively.

How B1/B2 Visas Work: Your Solution for U.S. Travel

The B1/B2 visa serves as your entry permit for temporary stays in the United States. Here’s what makes this visa category practical for travelers:

B1 (Business) Visa Activities:

Business meetings and conferences: Participate in professional gatherings
Contract negotiations: Discuss and finalize business agreements
Business consultations: Meet with U.S.-based business partners
Short-term training: Receive training not for employment purposes
Estate settlement: Handle matters related to inheritance or property
Commercial transactions: Purchase goods for export or place orders

B2 (Tourism/Pleasure) Visa Activities:

Tourism and sightseeing: Visit attractions and landmarks
Family visits: Spend time with relatives or friends
Medical treatment: Receive health care from U.S. providers
Social events: Attend weddings, graduations, or family celebrations
Amateur participation: Compete in unpaid sporting events or performances
Short recreational courses: Take classes not for credit or degree

The B1/B2 visa typically appears as a sticker in your passport with these key features:

Validity period: Often 1-10 years (varies by nationality)
Entry type: Usually multiple entries (marked “M”)
Visa class: Listed as “B1/B2”

While the visa might be valid for several years, each visit is limited to the period authorized by CBP officers at the port of entry—typically up to 6 months for tourists and business visitors.

Understanding Key Terms on Your Visa

When you receive your B1/B2 visa, you’ll notice several important pieces of information:

Visa Annotations: Special notes or restrictions may appear
Control Number: A unique identifier for your visa application
Visa Type/Class: Will show as “B1/B2” for visitor visas
Entries: “M” means multiple entries allowed during the validity period
Expiration Date: The last day you can use the visa to enter the U.S.

Many applicants ask: Where is the visa number on B1/B2 card? The visa number can be found in the bottom right corner of the visa sticker in your passport. It’s typically a red number consisting of 8 digits.

Remember that your visa expiration date is not the same as your authorized stay duration. The visa merely allows you to present yourself at a port of entry until that date, while your I-94 record (created upon entry) determines how long you can remain in the U.S.

The Difference Between Visa Validity and Authorized Stay

Many travelers ask: How long is a B1/B2 visa valid for? This common question has two important dimensions:

Visa Validity: The time period during which you can use the visa to enter the U.S. (often 1-10 years)
Authorized Stay: The specific time you’re allowed to remain in the U.S. after entry (determined by CBP officers at entry, typically up to 6 months)

For example, if you have a 10-year B1/B2 visa, you can make multiple trips to the U.S. during those 10 years, but each individual stay might be limited to 6 months or less.

The B1/B2 Visa Application Process: Step by Step

Successfully obtaining your B1/B2 visa requires attention to detail at each stage:

1. Complete the DS-160 Form

The Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application requires personal information, travel details, and security questions. Set aside 45-60 minutes to complete this form carefully. You’ll need:

Passport information
Travel itinerary (if available)
Employment history
A digital photo meeting specific requirements (600×600 pixels, neutral background)

After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation page with a barcode—a critical document for your interview.

2. Pay the Application Fee

The standard fee is $160 USD, though reciprocity fees may apply depending on your nationality. Keep your payment receipt as proof for your interview. This fee is non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.

3. Schedule Your Interview

Using your DS-160 confirmation number, schedule an appointment at your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Wait times vary significantly by location:

Some posts offer appointments within days
Others have waits of several weeks or months

During peak travel seasons (summer and holidays), appointment availability decreases—plan accordingly.

4. Gather Required Documents

Prepare a complete application package including:

Current passport (valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay)
DS-160 confirmation page
Application fee payment receipt
2×2 inch photograph (if not uploaded with the DS-160)
Evidence of funds for your trip (bank statements, sponsorships, etc.)
Evidence of ties to your home country (property deeds, employment letter, family ties)
Trip itinerary and purpose documentation
Previous U.S. visas and travel history (if applicable)

5. Attend Your Interview

The personal interview typically lasts 3-5 minutes. The consular officer will:

Verify your identity and application information
Ask about your travel plans and intentions
Evaluate your ties to your home country
Assess whether you qualify for the visa

Answer questions clearly and honestly. Bring all supporting documents, even if not specifically requested.

6. Wait for Processing

Most decisions are made on the same day as the interview. However, some cases require “administrative processing,” which can take 2-8 weeks. The embassy will retain your passport during this period.

Once approved, your visa will be affixed to your passport and returned to you. Many consulates offer courier services for passport return, eliminating the need for another trip to the embassy.

For detailed information about the application process, you can visit the U.S. Department of State’s Visitor Visa page.

Critical Considerations for Your Interview

The visa interview is often the most stressful part of the application process. Here are strategies to increase your chances of success:

Dress professionally: First impressions matter. Business or smart casual attire shows respect for the process.
Prepare concise answers: Consular officers interview many applicants daily. Keep your responses brief but complete.
Know your itinerary details: Be ready to explain exactly where you’re going, why, and for how long.
Anticipate questions about return ties: Practice explaining your specific reasons for returning to your home country after your visit.
Bring documentation, but don’t overwhelm: Organize your supporting documents in a logical order, but don’t present them unless asked.
Be honest: Misrepresentation can result in permanent visa ineligibility.

Most interviews last only 3-5 minutes, so clarity and preparation are essential.

Post-Approval: Using Your B1/B2 Visa Correctly

Once you’ve obtained your B1/B2 visa, understanding how to use it properly is crucial for maintaining good immigration status and ensuring future visa eligibility:

Entry Procedures at U.S. Ports of Entry

When you arrive in the United States, you’ll go through inspection by Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Be prepared for:

Primary Inspection: Brief questioning about your visit purpose and duration
Secondary Inspection: More detailed questioning if the CBP officer has concerns
Electronic I-94 Creation: Your entry/exit record that shows your authorized stay period

Bring these items in your carry-on luggage:

Valid passport with your B1/B2 visa
Evidence of your trip purpose (conference registration, hotel bookings, etc.)
Proof of funds and ties to your home country
Return flight itinerary

CBP officers make the final decision on whether to admit you and for how long. They may grant less than the maximum 6-month stay depending on your circumstances.

Understanding and Maintaining Your Status

While in the United States on a B1/B2 visa:

Don’t engage in unauthorized activities: No employment, no formal study
Don’t overstay your authorized period: Check your I-94 record online to confirm your exact departure date
Keep evidence of compliance: Save boarding passes, hotel receipts, and event registrations
Carry your passport: Always have identification with your valid visa and I-94 information
Maintain health insurance: Protect yourself from high U.S. medical costs

Extending Your Stay if Necessary

If unforeseen circumstances require you to remain in the U.S. beyond your authorized stay period:

File Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status) with USCIS
Submit the application at least 45 days before your I-94 expiration
Include evidence of:
- Financial means to support yourself during the extended stay
- Reason for extension (medical treatment documentation, etc.)
- Maintained valid status since entry
- Intent to depart after the extended period

Continue to maintain your visitor status while the extension is pending. If approved, you’ll receive a new I-94 with the extended date.

Ready to Apply for Your B1/B2 Visa? Here’s How We Can Help

Don’t leave your U.S. travel plans to chance. Our experienced immigration attorneys at Aurora Immigration Lawyers can guide you through every step of the B1/B2 visa process:

Personalized Application Strategy: We analyze your specific circumstances and develop a customized approach to maximize approval chances.
Document Review and Preparation: Our team will examine your application materials to identify red flags, suggest improvements, and help compile compelling evidence of your eligibility and ties to your home country.
Interview Preparation: We’ll conduct mock interviews covering likely questions and help you articulate clear, convincing responses that address potential concerns.
Application Monitoring: We track your application status and follow up with the consulate when necessary to minimize delays.
Denial Recovery: If you’ve previously been denied, we’ll identify the specific reasons and develop a strategy to overcome objections in your new application.

Maria, a client from Brazil, shared: “After my visa was denied twice, I was ready to give up on visiting my daughter in the U.S. The team at Aurora helped me understand exactly what documentation I needed to prove my ties to Brazil. My third application was approved within minutes of my interview.”

Common Misunderstandings About B1/B2 Visas

Many visa applicants have misconceptions that can lead to problems during the application process or while visiting the U.S.:

Myth: “I can work part-time with a B1 visa”

Reality: B1 visitors cannot work for U.S. companies or receive payment from U.S. sources. Even volunteer work can sometimes violate visa terms if it displaces a paid U.S. worker.

Myth: “I can apply for another visa or green card while visiting”

Reality: While it’s legally possible to apply for a change of status while in B1/B2 status, entering on a visitor visa with the preconceived intent to apply for another status can be considered visa fraud.

Many ask about how to change B1/B2 visa to green card. While possible in some circumstances, this path requires careful navigation. Generally, entering the U.S. on a B1/B2 visa with the intention of staying permanently can constitute visa fraud. However, if circumstances change legitimately after entry (such as marriage to a U.S. citizen), adjustment of status might be possible. Consult with an immigration attorney before pursuing this route.

Myth: “Six months is guaranteed for each entry”

Reality: The CBP officer decides your authorized stay period upon entry. It might be less than six months depending on your circumstances and travel history.

Myth: “My visa is valid for 10 years, so I can stay that long”

Reality: The visa validity only indicates how long you can use it to enter the U.S. Your authorized stay period is determined at each entry and shown on your I-94 record.

Myth: “I don’t need a visa if I’m just transiting through the U.S.”

Reality: Unlike many countries, the U.S. generally requires transit visitors to have a valid visa unless they qualify for the Visa Waiver Program.

Understanding these distinctions can help you avoid serious immigration complications.

B1/B2 Visa Denials: Common Reasons and Solutions

Visa denials can be frustrating, but understanding why they happen can help you succeed with future applications:

Section 214(b) Denials: Insufficient Ties to Home Country

This is the most common reason for B1/B2 visa denials. The consular officer wasn’t convinced you would return home after your visit.

Solution: Strengthen evidence of your home country ties through:

Property ownership documentation
Family obligations (marriage certificates, children’s records)
Career advancement opportunities awaiting your return
Financial assets in your home country
Community involvement and responsibilities

Section 221(g) Denials: Incomplete Application

This type of refusal indicates missing information or documentation.

Solution: Carefully review the refusal letter and provide exactly what’s requested. This often results in eventual approval once the missing elements are submitted.

Section 212 Denials: Inadmissibility Issues

These more serious denials relate to health concerns, criminal history, prior immigration violations, or security concerns.

Solution: Depending on the specific ground of inadmissibility, you may need to:

Apply for a waiver of ineligibility
Correct factual errors if the determination was based on incorrect information
Wait until temporary bars expire
Provide medical clearance

Working with an immigration attorney is particularly important for these complex cases.

Frequently Asked Questions About B1/B2 Visas

How long can I stay in the U.S. with a B1/B2 visa?

While the visa may be valid for up to 10 years, each visit is typically limited to a maximum of six months. The exact duration of stay is determined by the CBP officer at your port of entry and noted on your I-94 form or entry stamp. You can check your authorized stay period at i94.cbp.dhs.gov.

What’s the difference between a B1 and B2 visa?

The B1 visa covers business activities like meetings and conferences, while the B2 visa is for tourism, visiting family and friends, or medical treatment. The B1/B2 is a combined visa that covers both purposes, giving you flexibility during your U.S. visits.

Can I work while in the U.S. on a B1/B2 visa?

No, B1/B2 visa holders cannot accept employment or work for a U.S. company. The B1 component allows for business activities, but not actual employment or payment from U.S. sources. Violating these terms can result in visa revocation and future immigration problems.

How do I prove I’ll return to my home country?

You’ll need to show “strong ties” to your home country that would compel your return. Effective evidence includes:

Property ownership documents (deeds, lease agreements)
Employment letter stating your position, salary, and expected return date
Family ties (marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates)
Financial assets in your home country (investment accounts, business ownership)
Ongoing educational enrollment with future terms
Tax returns showing established income history

Can I extend my stay beyond the initial period granted?

Yes, it’s possible to apply for an extension by filing Form I-539 with USCIS before your authorized stay expires. Your extension request should include:

A valid reason for extending your stay
Evidence of financial means to support the longer visit
Proof that you’ve maintained valid status since arrival
Demonstration that you still intend to return home

File at least 45 days before your authorized stay expires to avoid falling out of status while awaiting a decision.

How far in advance should I apply for a B1/B2 visa?

Apply at least 3-4 months before your intended travel date. This timeline accounts for:

Interview wait times (which vary by consulate)
Possible administrative processing (2-8 weeks)
Time to gather strong supporting documentation
Flexibility to address any issues that arise

The Department of State publishes current wait times for visa appointments at each consulate on their website.

Can I visit Canada or Mexico with a B1/B2 visa?

A U.S. visa doesn’t automatically grant entry to Canada or Mexico. These countries have their own entry requirements. However, visitors with valid B1/B2 visas can sometimes qualify for expedited processing under reciprocal agreements. Check with Canadian or Mexican authorities before planning cross-border trips.

Is medical insurance required for B1/B2 visa holders?

While not strictly required for the visa application, having medical insurance is strongly recommended. U.S. healthcare costs are exceptionally high:

A simple emergency room visit: $1,000-$3,000
Hospitalization: $10,000+ per day
Surgery: $15,000-$200,000 depending on complexity

Many consular officers view insurance coverage as evidence of responsible travel planning.

Can I study with a B1/B2 visa?

You may participate in short recreational or casual courses that don’t count toward a degree. Examples include:

Cooking classes
Photography workshops
Language immersion programs under 18 hours weekly
Conference-related training

For academic study leading to a degree or certificate, you’d need an appropriate student visa like F-1 or M-1.

What if my visa application is denied?

If denied, you’ll receive a denial letter citing one of several sections of immigration law. The most common reason is Section 214(b)—failure to prove strong ties to your home country. Depending on the reason, you may:

Reapply immediately with stronger documentation
Address specific concerns mentioned in the denial
Wait before reapplying if recommended by the consulate

There’s no formal appeal process, but you can reapply with new evidence as many times as needed (paying the fee each time).

Can I bring my spouse and children on my B1/B2 visa?

Each family member needs their own B1/B2 visa to travel to the United States. While you can apply together, each person’s application is evaluated individually based on their own ties to the home country and travel purpose. Children under 14 may qualify for an interview waiver in some cases.

How does the Visa Waiver Program compare to a B1/B2 visa?

The Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) allows citizens of participating countries to visit for up to 90 days without a visa. Key differences include:

ESTA: 90-day maximum stay vs. B1/B2: up to 6 months
ESTA: No extensions or status changes allowed vs. B1/B2: Extensions possible
ESTA: Simple online application vs. B1/B2: Interview required
ESTA: Valid for 2 years vs. B1/B2: Often valid for 10 years
ESTA: $21 fee vs. B1/B2: $160 fee

If you qualify for ESTA but anticipate needing longer stays or multiple visits, a B1/B2 visa might better serve your needs.

Understanding B1/B2 Visa Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a B1/B2 visa, you must meet several core requirements:

Legitimate Purpose: Your trip must fit within allowed B1/B2 activities—business meetings, tourism, family visits, or medical treatment. Prohibited purposes include studying for a degree, working for a U.S. employer, or immigrating permanently.
Temporary Intent: You must convince the consular officer that your visit is truly temporary. Having a clear departure date and specific travel plans helps demonstrate this intent.
Financial Self-Sufficiency: You need adequate funds to cover all expenses during your stay without working in the U.S. Bank statements, credit cards, and sponsorship letters can demonstrate this capability.
Strong Home Country Ties: These connections—jobs, property, family—show you have compelling reasons to return after your visit. The strength of these ties is often the deciding factor in visa approvals.
Admissibility: You must not be ineligible based on health concerns, criminal history, prior immigration violations, or security concerns. Certain medical conditions or past visa overstays can trigger inadmissibility.

Remember that the burden of proof rests entirely on you as the applicant. Consular officers begin with the presumption that every visitor visa applicant intends to immigrate unless proven otherwise.

Special Considerations for Different Age Groups

Visa applications are evaluated differently depending on your life stage:

Young Adults and Students

Young applicants often face higher scrutiny because they typically have fewer established ties to their home country. To strengthen your application:

Show enrollment in future academic terms
Demonstrate family relationships and responsibilities
Provide evidence of career prospects awaiting your return
Show property or financial investments in your home country

Mid-Career Professionals

Established professionals can highlight:

Stable, long-term employment with return-to-work letters
Business ownership or partnerships
Professional licenses that only apply in your home country
Property ownership and financial accounts

Retirees

Older applicants should emphasize:

Pension or retirement income tied to your home country
Family relationships, especially children and grandchildren
Home ownership and community involvement
Medical care connections in your home country
Previous travel history showing compliance with visa terms

Special Considerations for B1/B2 Visa Applicants

Visa Waiver Program Alternative

Citizens of 40 countries may be eligible to visit the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA). However, the B1/B2 visa offers several advantages:

Longer possible stays (up to 6 months versus 90 days)
Easier extensions if your plans change
No requirement for return tickets at entry
Ability to apply for change of status in certain situations
No ESTA approval requirement before travel

Medical Treatment Visits

If your primary purpose is medical treatment, prepare a comprehensive medical documentation package:

Detailed diagnosis from your local physician
Confirmation letter from the U.S. medical provider accepting you as a patient
Treatment plan with estimated duration
Cost estimates for all procedures and hospital stays
Financial documentation showing ability to pay (insurance coverage, bank statements, or sponsor letters)
Medical history relevant to your condition

Business Visitor Tips

For B1 business visitors, strengthen your application with:

Detailed invitation letters from U.S. business contacts specifying the purpose and duration of meetings
Letter from your current employer stating your position, salary, length of employment, and that you’ll continue employment upon return
Conference registration confirmations
Meeting agendas or schedules
Evidence that your salary will continue to be paid by your non-U.S. employer
Business cards and company information

Tourist Planning

For B2 tourist visitors, consider including these supporting documents:

Day-by-day travel itinerary
Hotel reservations (can be cancelable)
Round-trip flight bookings
Tour packages or event tickets if applicable
Invitation letters from U.S. contacts with their status information
Photos from previous international travel (demonstrating compliance with visa terms)

What You Can and Cannot Do on a B1/B2 Visa

Understanding the limitations of your visa status helps prevent violations that could affect your current stay and future visa eligibility:

Permitted Activities:

Attend business meetings and conferences
Negotiate contracts with U.S. businesses
Tour tourist attractions and vacation destinations
Visit friends and family members
Receive medical treatment at U.S. facilities
Participate in short recreational courses
Attend social events like weddings or graduations
Compete in amateur sporting events (unpaid)
Shop for personal items or business goods for export

Prohibited Activities:

Accept employment with U.S. companies
Receive payment from U.S. sources (except expense reimbursements in limited cases)
Enroll in degree or certificate programs
Work as foreign press, radio, film, or journalists
Perform as a professional entertainer or athlete
Engage in pilot training
Represent foreign governments in an official capacity
Seek to immigrate permanently

Activities in gray areas should be discussed with an immigration attorney before your trip to avoid inadvertent violations.

Trends and Changes in B1/B2 Visa Processing

B1/B2 visa policies evolve constantly. Recent developments include:

Enhanced Vetting: Deeper background checks and social media screening for security concerns
Reciprocity Changes: Adjusted visa validity periods based on how foreign governments treat U.S. visitors
Interview Waivers: Expanded eligibility for interview waivers for certain renewal applicants
Digital Processing: Increased use of electronic processing and digital visa application elements
Public Charge Considerations: Greater scrutiny of financial self-sufficiency, particularly for medical treatment visitors
Biometric Requirements: Additional biometric data collection during application processing

These changes mean that preparation strategies that worked in the past may no longer be sufficient. Working with attorneys who track these developments daily can give you an advantage.

COVID-19 Impact on Visa Processing

The pandemic significantly disrupted visa services worldwide, with lasting effects:

Consular staffing shortages creating longer wait times
Modified interview procedures at many posts
Additional health-related entry requirements
Prioritization systems for urgent travel needs
Expanded interview waiver eligibility for certain renewal applicants

While operations have largely normalized, some consular posts still face backlogs and extended wait times. Check the specific situation at your local embassy or consulate before planning your application timeline.

Why Legal Guidance Matters for B1/B2 Visa Applications

While applying independently is possible, professional guidance significantly improves outcomes, especially if:

You’ve had previous visa denials
You have complex travel plans or purposes
You’re from a country with high visa refusal rates
You have limited documentation of ties to your home country
You have previous immigration issues or overstays
You need expedited processing

Our attorneys at Aurora Immigration Lawyers focus exclusively on immigration law. This specialization means:

We understand how consular officers evaluate applications
We can identify potential red flags before submission
We know which documents carry the most weight for your specific situation
We can prepare you for the exact questions likely to arise in your interview
We stay current on policy changes that might affect your case

Need Help with Other Immigration Matters?

In addition to B1/B2 visas, our firm specializes in many immigration pathways:

Adjustment of Status
VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) Relief
Employment-Based Immigration
Family Sponsorship

Take the Next Step Toward Your U.S. Visit

Whether you’re planning a business trip, family visit, vacation, or seeking medical treatment in the United States, understanding the B1/B2 visa is your first step toward a successful journey.

Don’t let confusion about visa requirements stand between you and your U.S. travel plans. Contact our team today at Aurora Immigration Lawyers to schedule a consultation about your B1/B2 visa application.

Our immigration attorneys will answer your questions. Contact us and let us help you prepare a strong application, and guide you through the process with confidence. Your U.S. travel dreams are closer than you think.

For more information about visa requirements and processes, you can also visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.