U.S. Customs and Border Protection

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the largest federal law enforcement agency within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It is dedicated to safeguarding America's borders and facilitating lawful international trade and travel.

Established in 2003, CBP's primary mission encompasses regulating and facilitating international trade, collecting import duties, and enforcing U.S. regulations including those related to trade, customs, and immigration.

Core Functions and Services

• Border Security: CBP secures U.S. borders, including the 1,900 miles with Mexico and 5,000 miles with Canada. This prevents illegal entry of individuals, smuggling of prohibited goods, and other customs and immigration violations.
• Trade Enforcement: The agency enforces laws protecting public health, safety, intellectual property rights, and fair trade practices. CBP officers inspect passengers and cargo at 328 ports of entry, ensuring compliance with U.S. laws.
• Immigration Enforcement: CBP enforces immigration laws, including apprehending and processing individuals attempting unlawful entry into the U.S.
• Agricultural Protection: Agriculture specialists prevent harmful pests and diseases from threatening U.S. agriculture by inspecting and seizing prohibited agricultural products at ports.
• Air and Marine Operations: CBP's Air and Marine Operations (AMO) is the world's largest civilian aviation and maritime law enforcement organization, utilizing air and marine assets to detect and prevent terrorism and illegal movement of people and contraband.

Technological Initiatives

CBP integrates advanced technologies to enhance border security and streamline travel. For example, the Mobile Passport Control app enables U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to expedite entry at participating airports.

Additionally, CBP has implemented facial biometric technology at international airports and seaports to improve traveler security and efficiency.

Locations

CBP operates numerous field offices and facilities across the United States to fulfill its mission. Notable locations include:

• Atlanta Field Office, Atlanta, GA
• Baltimore Field Office, Baltimore, MD
• Boston Field Office, Boston, MA
• Chicago Field Office, Chicago, IL
• Detroit Field Office, Detroit, MI
• El Paso Field Office, El Paso, TX
• Houston Field Office, Houston, TX
• Laredo Field Office, Laredo, TX
• Los Angeles Field Office, Long Beach, CA
• Miami Field Office, Miami, FL
• New Orleans Field Office, New Orleans, LA
• New York Field Office, New York, NY
• Portland Field Office, San Francisco, CA
• San Diego Field Office, San Diego, CA
• San Francisco Field Office, San Francisco, CA
• San Juan Field Office, San Juan, PR
• Seattle Field Office, Seattle, WA
• Tampa Field Office, Tampa, FL
• Tucson Field Office, Tucson, AZ
• League City, TX
• Chula Vista, CA
• Columbus, OH
• Round Rock, TX
• Menifee, CA

These offices are strategically located to manage aspects of border security, trade enforcement, and immigration control nationwide.

Through its comprehensive approach, U.S. Customs and Border Protection plays a pivotal role in maintaining national security, facilitating lawful trade and travel, and protecting U.S. economic and social interests.