What is a Port of Entry?

A Port of Entry is a location designated by the government where Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers are authorized to inspect goods and credentials. This is a critical function, as it ensures that all items entering the country comply with national laws and regulations. At a Port of Entry, travelers and goods are screened to prevent illegal items, such as contraband or items that have not cleared customs regulations, from entering the country.

Additionally, this area serves as a point where travelers can present their documents for inspection, allowing CBP officers to verify the legality and admissibility of individuals entering the U.S. It plays a vital role in border security and trade compliance, facilitating lawful entry while protecting national interests.

Other options, while relevant to airport operations and security, do not fully encompass the breadth of duties performed at a Port of Entry. For instance, a location for airport maintenance focuses on operational support rather than customs and immigration processes. A designated area for security checks pertains more to safety checks unrelated to customs, while an area specifically for immigration processing only would exclude the critical component of goods inspection that CBP officers are tasked with at a Port of Entry.