What do I need to cross US border by boat?

For each person on board:
  1. Name.
  2. Date of Birth.
  3. Passport, NEXUS, FAST card, Enhanced Drivers Licence or Secure Certificate of Indian Status.
  4. Boat Registration or licence number.
  5. Boat name.
  6. Boat length.
  7. CBP decal number for vessels 30+ feet.
  8. Dinghy licence and papers.




Crossing the U.S. border by a private, non-commercial pleasure boat in 2026 requires strict adherence to CBP (Customs and Border Protection) protocols. Every person on board must have a valid Passport or a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document, such as a NEXUS card or an Enhanced Driver's License. Upon entering U.S. waters from a foreign port (like Canada, Mexico, or the Bahamas), the "Master of the Vessel" must report their arrival immediately to the nearest CBP facility. The most efficient way to do this in 2026 is via the CBP ROAM™ mobile app, which allows for video reporting and digital document submission. You will need to provide the vessel's registration number, the names and dates of birth of all passengers, and a list of any "declarable" items or currency over $10,000. If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you must also have a valid Visa or an ESTA approval. Failure to report your arrival immediately can result in civil penalties starting at $5,000 and potential seizure of the vessel, so the "pro" move is to have your ROAM app ready before you hit the 12-mile limit.

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Documents You Will Need
All U.S. citizens need U.S. passport books if re-entering by air. Land and sea border crossings accept additional travel documents, such as U.S. Passport cards and Trusted Traveler cards. Child travelers have additional options - see the Traveling with Children section.

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Three Steps to Obtain Your Cruising Permit
  1. Report to U.S. Customs and Border Patrol immediately upon reaching port.
  2. Make a formal vessel entry on Form 1300 within 48 hours and pay all applicable fees.
  3. Request the cruising license from the Customs and Border Patrol Port Director.


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Prepare for Likely Questions From U.S. CBP Officials
  • Why are you visiting the United States? ...
  • Where will you be staying? ...
  • Who will you be visiting? ...
  • How long will you be staying in the U.S.? If you're coming in with an immigrant visa (have been approved for U.S. permanent residence), you won't likely be asked this.


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You must declare all items you purchased and are carrying with you upon return to the United States, including gifts for other people as well as items you bought for yourself. This includes duty-free items purchased in foreign countries, as well as any merchandise you intend to sell or use in your business.

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