Newark Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Newark, New Jersey serves as a major gateway to the United States through Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), one of the busiest airports in the New York metropolitan area. As a port of entry to the United States, all international travelers arriving in Newark must comply with U.S. federal immigration and customs regulations. Entry requirements are determined by your nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay, with processes managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The immigration process at Newark involves document verification, biometric collection (fingerprints and photographs), and an interview with a CBP officer. Travelers should be prepared to present valid travel documents, demonstrate the purpose of their visit, and show proof of onward or return travel. Wait times can vary significantly depending on flight arrival times, with peak periods experiencing longer queues. The airport is equipped with Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks and Mobile Passport Control options for eligible travelers to expedite the process. Before traveling to Newark, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from the United States (though some countries have agreements reducing this requirement). Verify your visa or travel authorization status well in advance, as processing times can vary. Familiarize yourself with U.S. customs regulations regarding prohibited and restricted items, and prepare accurate declarations for any items that require reporting. Understanding these requirements in advance will help ensure a smooth entry experience.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Entry to Newark follows U.S. federal visa policy. Requirements vary significantly by nationality and purpose of visit. The three main categories are visa-free entry under the Visa Waiver Program, Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and traditional visa requirements.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP) with ESTA

Up to 90 days (cannot be extended)

Citizens of 41 countries can travel to the U.S. for tourism or business without a visa, but must obtain ESTA approval before travel

Includes

Andorra Australia Austria Belgium Brunei Chile Croatia Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Japan Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Monaco Netherlands New Zealand Norway Poland Portugal San Marino Singapore Slovakia Slovenia South Korea Spain Sweden Switzerland Taiwan United Kingdom Uruguay

How to Apply: Apply online at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov at least 72 hours before departure. ESTA is typically approved within minutes but can take up to 72 hours. Valid for 2 years or until passport expires.
Cost: USD $21 per application

Travelers must have an e-passport (biometric passport). Purpose of visit must be tourism, business, or transit only. Cannot work or study. Must have return/onward ticket and demonstrate ties to home country. Previous travel to Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen since March 2011 may disqualify VWP eligibility.

Canadian and Bermudian Citizens

Up to 6 months for tourism or business

Special provisions for Canadian and Bermudian citizens

Includes

Canada Bermuda

How to Apply: Generally no visa or ESTA required. Canadians need valid passport or approved alternative documents (NEXUS card, Enhanced Driver's License for land/sea entry). Bermudians need valid passport.
Cost: No fee for tourist/business entry

While Canadians typically don't need a visa for tourism or business, they may need visas for work, study, or other purposes. Always carry proper documentation and be prepared to explain purpose of visit.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type (B-1/B-2 tourist visas typically allow 6 months per entry, but determined by CBP officer at entry)

All other nationalities and purposes not covered by VWP must obtain a U.S. visa before travel

How to Apply: Apply through U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country. Process includes online DS-160 form completion, visa fee payment, biometric appointment, and in-person interview. Processing times vary from days to months depending on location and visa type. Start application well in advance of travel.

Common visa types: B-1/B-2 (tourist/business), F-1 (student), J-1 (exchange visitor), H-1B (work). Each has specific requirements and allowed activities. Visa approval is not guaranteed and requires demonstrating non-immigrant intent (ties to home country). Visa allows you to travel to U.S. port of entry; final admission decision made by CBP officer.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Newark Liberty International Airport, all international passengers must complete U.S. immigration and customs procedures before entering the country. The process occurs in Terminal B for most international flights. Allow sufficient time for connections, as the process can take 30 minutes to 2+ hours depending on arrival time and passenger volume.

Arrival and Disembarkation

Follow signs for 'Arrivals' and 'Immigration' or 'Passport Control' after leaving the aircraft. Keep your passport, customs declaration (if provided on aircraft), and arrival documents accessible.

Automated Passport Control (APC) or Mobile Passport Control (Optional)

Eligible travelers (U.S. citizens, Canadian citizens, VWP travelers with ESTA, and certain visa holders) can use APC kiosks or the Mobile Passport Control app to expedite processing. Complete questions, scan passport, provide fingerprints, take photo, and receive receipt to present to CBP officer.

Immigration Queue

Join the appropriate line: U.S. Citizens/Permanent Residents or Visitors/Non-U.S. Citizens. Lines are clearly marked. Global Entry members can use dedicated kiosks.

CBP Officer Interview

Present your passport, visa/ESTA documentation, and customs declaration form to the CBP officer. Officer will ask questions about your trip, verify your documents, take fingerprints (typically both index fingers), and photograph you. Answer questions clearly and honestly.

Baggage Claim

After clearing immigration, proceed to baggage claim to collect checked luggage. Verify baggage tag matches your claim tickets.

Customs Declaration

Proceed to customs area with all luggage. Submit customs declaration form. You may be directed to 'Nothing to Declare' exit or secondary inspection depending on your declaration and random selection. CBP may inspect luggage.

Exit or Connection

If Newark is your final destination, exit to arrivals hall. If connecting domestically, follow signs for 'Connecting Flights' - you may need to re-check bags and clear TSA security. For international connections, procedures vary by airline.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay (some countries exempt under Six-Month Club). Must be undamaged and have blank pages for stamps.

Visa or ESTA Approval

Print confirmation of ESTA approval or have visa stamp in passport. CBP can verify electronically but having printed proof is recommended.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from the U.S. within authorized period. Can be airline confirmation, e-ticket, or itinerary.

Customs Declaration Form

CBP Declaration Form 6059B, typically provided on aircraft or available at airport. One form per family or individual traveler.

Supporting Documents

Hotel reservations, invitation letters, proof of sufficient funds, travel itinerary, employment letter, or other documents supporting purpose of visit. Not always requested but recommended to carry.

Additional Documents (if applicable)

Students: I-20 form and school acceptance. Workers: approval notices and employment authorization. Minors: birth certificate and parental consent if traveling without both parents.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching the CBP officer. Keep them in a clear folder or travel wallet.

Answer questions directly and honestly. Provide concise answers without volunteering excessive information. If you don't understand a question, politely ask for clarification.

Remain calm and courteous throughout the process. CBP officers have broad authority to question travelers and inspect belongings.

Do not carry items for other people or accept packages from strangers. You are responsible for everything in your possession.

If you have connecting flights, allow at least 2-3 hours for international connections to account for immigration and customs processing time.

Download the Mobile Passport Control app before travel if eligible. It can significantly reduce wait times.

Declare all items required by customs regulations. Failure to declare can result in fines, confiscation, and potential immigration consequences.

Keep prescription medications in original containers with labels. Carry a doctor's letter for controlled substances or large quantities.

Ensure your phone is charged and you have access to important documents digitally as backup, but have physical copies as primary.

If you're denied entry or experience problems, remain calm and cooperative. You can request to speak with a supervisor or contact your embassy/consulate.

Customs & Duty-Free

U.S. Customs and Border Protection enforces customs regulations at Newark. All travelers must declare items acquired abroad, gifts, and items being brought for someone else. Understanding duty-free allowances and prohibited items helps avoid delays, fines, or confiscation.

Alcohol

1 liter per person (33.8 fluid ounces)

Must be 21 years or older. State laws may impose additional restrictions. Amounts exceeding allowance subject to duty and Internal Revenue Tax. Some states have lower limits.

Tobacco Products

200 cigarettes (1 carton) OR 100 cigars OR 2 kg (4.4 lbs) of smoking tobacco, or proportional combination

Must be 21 years or older (federal age raised to 21 in 2019). Cuban cigars are permitted for personal use. Amounts exceeding allowance subject to duty and federal excise tax.

Currency and Monetary Instruments

No limit on amount, but amounts over $10,000 USD (or foreign equivalent) must be declared

Includes cash, travelers checks, money orders, negotiable instruments. Use FinCEN Form 105. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties. Applies to total carried by family traveling together.

Gifts and Personal Goods

$800 per person for goods acquired abroad (for returning U.S. residents and eligible travelers)

Items for personal or household use. Family members cannot combine exemptions. Amounts over $800 subject to duty. Exemption can be used once every 30 days. Different rules apply for items purchased in certain Caribbean Basin countries ($1,600 exemption).

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - federal offense with severe penalties including imprisonment
Counterfeit goods - fake designer items, pirated media, knockoff products
Certain fruits, vegetables, plants, and plant products - to prevent agricultural pests and diseases
Meat, poultry, and animal products from most countries - risk of disease transmission (limited exceptions with permits)
Absinthe with thujone - specific alcohol formulations
Endangered species products - items made from protected animals (ivory, sea turtle shells, etc.) under CITES regulations
Hazardous materials - fireworks, flammable liquids, certain chemicals
Cuban cigars for commercial purposes - personal use quantities allowed
Switchblade knives - automatic opening knives (state laws may vary)
Cultural artifacts and antiquities - items illegally removed from country of origin

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be in original containers with labels; carry doctor's letter for controlled substances; limited to personal use quantities (generally 90-day supply)
Firearms and ammunition - must be declared; specific permits and documentation required; must be transported unloaded in checked baggage; state and local laws vary significantly
Agricultural products - many require permits or phytosanitary certificates; declare all food, plant, and animal products
Alcohol exceeding duty-free allowance - subject to federal duty and IRS tax; must be for personal use, not resale
Biological specimens - require permits from CDC and/or USDA depending on type
Fish and wildlife - hunting trophies, certain shells, corals require permits under CITES and other regulations
Soil - generally prohibited unless accompanied by permit due to pest concerns
Pet birds - require quarantine and veterinary certificates; restricted species
Certain cheeses and dairy products - restrictions vary by country of origin and type

Health Requirements

Health requirements for entering the United States through Newark are established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and may change based on global health situations. Requirements vary by country of origin and recent travel history.

Required Vaccinations

COVID-19 vaccination requirements have been lifted as of May 2023, but policies may be reinstated - check current CDC requirements before travel
Travelers arriving from countries with yellow fever risk must present valid yellow fever vaccination certificate if coming from or transiting through endemic areas

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTaP, influenza, etc.) should be up to date
COVID-19 vaccination recommended for all eligible travelers
Hepatitis A and B for long-term visitors
Consult CDC travel health website for current recommendations

Health Insurance

Health insurance is not required for entry but is strongly recommended. Medical care in the United States is very expensive, and visitors are responsible for all medical costs. Travel health insurance should cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Verify your policy covers care in the U.S. Medicare and foreign health insurance generally do not cover care in the U.S.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly based on disease outbreaks and public health emergencies. Check the CDC website (wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel) and CBP website (cbp.gov) within 72 hours of departure for current requirements including testing, vaccination, and quarantine rules. Some requirements may be based on countries visited in the 14 days prior to U.S. arrival, not just country of citizenship. Airlines may also have their own health requirements for boarding.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Official CBP website: www.cbp.gov - Information on entry requirements, customs regulations, trusted traveler programs

CBP Information Center: 1-877-227-5511 (toll-free from U.S.) for questions about customs and immigration

U.S. Department of State - Visa Information

Official visa information: travel.state.gov - Visa requirements, application procedures, embassy locations

ESTA application website: esta.cbp.dhs.gov for Visa Waiver Program travelers

Your Country's Embassy or Consulate in the U.S.

Locate your embassy in Washington D.C. or consulate in New York/Newark area for citizen services

Emergency Services (Newark/U.S.)

911 - Emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance throughout the United States

For non-emergency police in Newark: 973-733-6000. Newark Liberty Airport Police: 973-961-6230

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Health information for travelers: wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel - Current health requirements and recommendations

CDC general information: 1-800-232-4636

Newark Liberty International Airport

Airport information: newarkairport.com - Terminal information, services, ground transportation

Airport general information: 973-961-6000

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children/Minors

Children, including infants, must have their own passport and visa/ESTA if required. Minors (under 18) traveling alone, with one parent, or with non-parents should carry: notarized letter of consent from non-traveling parent(s) including contact information and travel details; birth certificate proving relationship to traveling adult; custody documents if applicable; contact information for parents/guardians. CBP officers may question children separately to prevent child abduction. Single parents should carry evidence of sole custody if applicable. Adoption papers should be carried for recently adopted children.

Traveling with Pets

Dogs and cats entering the U.S. must meet specific requirements. Dogs: valid rabies vaccination certificate (at least 30 days before arrival, valid for duration stated by vaccine manufacturer); must be healthy on arrival; CDC Dog Import Form required as of August 2024; puppies under 6 months have additional restrictions. Cats: no federal requirements but must appear healthy; rabies vaccination recommended; some states require vaccination certificates. Service animals have same requirements. Other pets (birds, reptiles, etc.) have specific USDA/CDC requirements and may require permits and quarantine. Hawaii and some states have additional restrictions. Check CDC and USDA APHIS websites for current requirements well before travel.

Extended Stays or Change of Status

Tourist visas (B-1/B-2) and VWP (ESTA) are for temporary visits only. VWP stays cannot be extended beyond 90 days - you must leave the U.S. To stay longer on B visa: file Form I-539 Extension of Stay with USCIS before current status expires; approval not guaranteed; must show continued non-immigrant intent. To change purpose (study, work): must apply for change of status before current authorization expires; cannot work or study until approval; some statuses cannot be changed while in U.S. (must leave and apply for new visa). Overstaying has serious consequences: visa cancellation, future entry bans, deportation. If you need to stay longer, consult immigration attorney well before status expires.

Business Travelers

Business visitors on B-1 visa or VWP/ESTA can attend meetings, conferences, negotiate contracts, and conduct consultations but cannot perform productive work or receive U.S. salary. Carry: invitation letter from U.S. company detailing purpose and duration; proof of employment abroad; evidence you'll return home (employment letter, property ownership); conference registration if applicable. For work requiring compensation or long-term projects, appropriate work visa (H-1B, L-1, etc.) required. Misrepresenting business activities as tourism can result in entry denial and visa revocation.

Students and Exchange Visitors

Students must have F-1 or M-1 visa (J-1 for exchange programs) and cannot enter on VWP/tourist visa for study. Required documents: valid passport; valid student visa; Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility) issued by school and signed by student and school official; SEVIS fee payment receipt; proof of financial support; school acceptance letter. Can enter U.S. up to 30 days before program start date on I-20. Must maintain full-time enrollment and report address changes. Work restrictions apply - on-campus work limited, off-campus requires authorization. Dependents need F-2/M-2/J-2 visas.

Transit Passengers

Passengers transiting through Newark to another country generally must have valid passport and may need visa or ESTA even if not leaving airport, as U.S. requires immigration clearance for most transits. VWP nationals can transit on ESTA. Some nationalities need C-1 transit visa. If leaving airport during transit, standard entry requirements apply. Ensure sufficient connection time (minimum 2-3 hours for international connections after clearing immigration/customs). Check with airline about baggage - some international-to-international connections require baggage collection and re-check after customs.

Previous Immigration Violations or Criminal History

Previous visa denials, overstays, deportations, or criminal convictions can affect entry eligibility. Even minor infractions or arrests without conviction may cause issues. VWP ineligible if previously denied U.S. visa or overstayed. Criminal convictions may require waiver (Form I-192 or I-601). Drug violations, even minor or pardoned, often result in inadmissibility. Be truthful on all applications - lying about history is fraud and results in permanent ban. If you have previous violations or criminal history, consult immigration attorney before applying or traveling. CBP has access to extensive databases and will likely discover undisclosed issues.