B2English

Customs & Immigration

Use these phrases to speak confidently and respectfully when answering questions at border control or customs.

Key Phrases

Voice
Stating purpose of visit · 2 ways to say it

I'm just here on vacation.

neutral

US English

I am visiting on holiday.

polite

UK English

Stating business purpose

I'm here to attend a conference and meet with colleagues.

neutral
Stating duration of stay · 2 ways to say it

Just a couple of weeks, I fly back on the tenth.

neutral

Natural spoken timing

I will be in the country for exactly fourteen days.

polite
Stating accommodation · 2 ways to say it

I'm staying with some friends in the city.

neutral

Appropriate for an official interview

My company has arranged accommodation for me at a hotel downtown.

polite
Handing over documents · 2 ways to say it

Here's my passport and the arrival card.

neutral

Certainly, here are all my travel documents.

polite
Declaring items · 2 ways to say it

No, just my personal belongings.

neutral

I have a few gifts, but their total value is well under the duty-free allowance.

polite
Asking for clarification · 2 ways to say it

Sorry, I didn't quite catch what you meant.

neutral

Polite enough for an officer but phrased naturally

Would you mind repeating that? It's a little noisy in here.

polite
Providing evidence · 2 ways to say it

If you need to see it, I have my booking confirmation right here.

neutral

Would you like me to show you my return flight details?

polite
Stating occupation

I work as a software engineer back home.

neutral

Practice Dialogue

Immigration Officer
Next, please. Passport and arrival card.
Traveler
Hi there. Here's my passport and the card.
Immigration Officer
Thanks. So, what's the main purpose of your visit today?
Traveler
Well, I'm just here on vacation. Mostly doing a bit of sightseeing, I mean.
Immigration Officer
Right. And how long are you planning to stay?
Traveler
Just a couple of weeks, I fly back on the tenth.
Immigration Officer
Uh-huh. Where will you be staying during your trip?
Traveler
I'm staying with some friends in the city. I have their address right here if you need it.
Immigration Officer
That's fine. Are you bringing any food or agricultural products with you?
Traveler
No, just my personal belongings.
Immigration Officer
Okay, look into the camera for me, please. ... Alright, you're all set. Welcome to the US.
Traveler
Thanks a lot. Have a good day.

More Travel & Transport (B2)

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