Billings Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Billings, Montana's largest city, is located in the United States and follows all U.S. federal entry requirements for international travelers. All foreign nationals visiting Billings must comply with U.S. immigration laws, which include obtaining the appropriate visa or travel authorization before arrival. Entry requirements vary significantly depending on your nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay. The entry process for Billings typically involves arriving at a U.S. port of entry where you'll undergo immigration and customs inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. Most international travelers to Billings will connect through major U.S. gateway airports such as Denver, Minneapolis, or Seattle, where primary immigration processing occurs. Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) handles some international flights, primarily from Canada. It's essential to prepare all required documentation before traveling, including a valid passport, appropriate visa or travel authorization, proof of onward travel, and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. Processing times and requirements can change, so planning well in advance of your trip is strongly recommended.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

The United States operates the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for citizens of certain countries, while others must obtain a traditional visa before travel. All travelers should determine their specific requirements well before their planned departure date.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

Up to 90 days (cannot be extended)

Citizens of VWP countries can enter the U.S. for tourism or business without obtaining a traditional visa

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

VWP travelers must have an e-Passport (electronic passport with chip), obtain ESTA authorization before travel, have a return or onward ticket, and meet all other admissibility requirements. Travel must be for business or tourism only.

Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)

ESTA valid for 2 years or until passport expires; each entry allows up to 90 days

Required pre-authorization for all VWP travelers before boarding flights to the U.S.

Includes

All Visa Waiver Program countries listed above

How to Apply: Apply online at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov at least 72 hours before departure (recommended to apply earlier). Approval is usually instant but can take up to 72 hours. ESTA is linked electronically to your passport.
Cost: USD $21 per application

ESTA denials require applying for a traditional B-1/B-2 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. ESTA does not guarantee entry; final decision is made by CBP officer at port of entry.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type: B-1/B-2 tourist visas typically allow stays of 6 months per entry, though the actual duration is determined by CBP at entry

All other nationalities and purposes of travel not covered by VWP require a traditional U.S. visa

How to Apply: Apply at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Process includes completing DS-160 form online, paying visa fee (typically $185 for B-1/B-2), scheduling and attending an interview, and providing biometrics. Processing times vary widely by location (check wait times at travel.state.gov).

Common visa types include B-1/B-2 (tourism/business), F-1 (student), J-1 (exchange visitor), H-1B (specialty worker). Start application process 2-3 months before intended travel. Canadians generally do not need visas for tourist visits but may need them for work or study.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival in the United States (whether at Billings or a connecting airport), all international travelers must complete immigration and customs procedures. If connecting through another U.S. city, you'll clear immigration at your first point of entry, then proceed through customs before any domestic connections.

Immigration Inspection

Present your passport and visa/ESTA to a CBP officer. Your fingerprints and photo will be taken. The officer will ask questions about your trip and verify your documents. They will determine your authorized length of stay and stamp your passport or provide an I-94 arrival/departure record (now electronic).

Baggage Claim

After immigration, collect all checked luggage before proceeding to customs, even if you have a connecting flight to Billings.

Customs Declaration

Complete a customs declaration form (usually provided on your flight or available electronically). Declare all items you're bringing into the U.S., including food, plants, animals, currency over $10,000, and goods acquired abroad.

Customs Inspection

Present your declaration to a CBP officer. You may be selected for baggage inspection. Answer all questions truthfully. Agricultural items receive special scrutiny.

Connecting Flights

If Billings is not your first arrival point, after customs you'll re-check your bags for your domestic connection and proceed to your connecting gate.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay (some countries have exceptions under the Six-Month Club). Check if your country is on this list at travel.state.gov.

Visa or ESTA Authorization

Appropriate travel authorization for your nationality and purpose of visit. Print a copy of ESTA approval for your records, though it's electronically linked to your passport.

Proof of Onward/Return Travel

Return ticket or evidence of onward travel showing you will leave the U.S. within your authorized period.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence you can support yourself during your stay (bank statements, credit cards, sponsorship letter).

Accommodation Details

Address where you'll be staying in Billings/the U.S. (hotel reservation, host's address).

Purpose of Visit Documentation

Supporting documents for your trip purpose (business invitation, conference registration, tour itinerary, etc.).

Tips for Smooth Entry

Answer all questions honestly and concisely. Provide only the information requested.

Have all documents organized and easily accessible in a carry-on bag, not in checked luggage.

Arrive at the airport early for international flights (3 hours recommended) to allow time for check-in and security.

Check your I-94 record online at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov after entry to verify your authorized stay period.

Keep copies of important documents separate from originals and consider digital backups.

Be prepared for additional screening if selected. Cooperate fully with all CBP officers.

If connecting through another U.S. city, allow at least 2-3 hours between flights for immigration and customs processing.

Declare everything on your customs form. Penalties for false declarations can be severe.

Customs & Duty-Free

U.S. Customs and Border Protection enforces strict regulations on what can be brought into the country. All travelers must declare items acquired abroad, agricultural products, and currency exceeding specified amounts. Billings follows all federal U.S. customs regulations.

Alcohol

1 liter of alcoholic beverages per person

Must be 21 years or older. State laws may impose additional restrictions. Additional quantities subject to duty and federal excise tax.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes (1 carton) OR 100 cigars (non-Cuban) OR 2 kg (4.4 lbs) of smoking tobacco

Must be 18 years or older (21 in some states). Cuban cigars are now permitted but still subject to the $800 exemption limit. Additional quantities subject to duty.

Currency

No limit on amount, but must declare if carrying $10,000 USD or more (or foreign equivalent)

Includes cash, traveler's checks, money orders, and negotiable instruments. Declaration required for amounts over $10,000. Use FinCEN Form 105. No taxes on declared amounts, but failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties.

Gifts/Goods

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

Family members can combine exemptions. Goods over $800 subject to duty. Keep receipts for all purchases. Some items like alcohol and tobacco have separate limitations within the $800 exemption.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics -严格禁止，违者将面临刑事起诉
Absinthe with thujone - banned alcoholic beverage
Most fresh fruits and vegetables - agricultural restrictions to prevent pests and diseases
Meat and meat products from most countries - risk of disease (limited exceptions with permits)
Soil or items with soil - agricultural protection
Certain endangered species products - protected under CITES (ivory, tortoiseshell, certain furs)
Counterfeit and pirated goods - trademark and copyright violations
Haitian animal hide drums - disease concerns
Certain cultural artifacts - items of archaeological or cultural significance without proper documentation

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be in original containers with prescription label; carry letter from doctor for controlled substances; limited to personal use quantity (typically 90-day supply)
Firearms and ammunition - require permits and advance declaration; strict regulations apply; check ATF requirements
Plant and plant products - many require phytosanitary certificates; some prohibited by state
Cheese and dairy products - limited quantities; must be commercially packaged
Fish and wildlife - may require permits under CITES or other regulations
Pet foods - restrictions on products containing meat or poultry
Alcoholic beverages for commercial use - require special permits
Certain fruits from approved countries - must declare all fruits; some allowed with restrictions

Health Requirements

The United States has specific health requirements for entry, primarily focused on vaccination requirements for immigrants and certain visa categories. Health insurance is not mandatory for entry but strongly recommended due to high healthcare costs in the U.S.

Required Vaccinations

COVID-19: As of May 2023, COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required for international travelers to the U.S. However, requirements can change; check current CDC guidelines before travel.
Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Vaccination certificate must be presented. Montana is not a yellow fever risk area.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations: Ensure you're up to date on routine vaccines (MMR, DPT, Polio, etc.)
Influenza: Especially during flu season (October-March)
Hepatitis A and B: For longer stays
COVID-19: While no longer required, vaccination is still recommended for health protection

Health Insurance

Health insurance is not required for tourist entry to the U.S., but is STRONGLY recommended. The U.S. has very high healthcare costs and medical treatment can be extremely expensive without insurance. Visitors should obtain comprehensive travel health insurance that covers medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Medicare and foreign health insurance typically do not cover care in the U.S.

Current Health Requirements: Health requirements can change rapidly, especially regarding COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. Always check the CDC website (wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel) and the U.S. Embassy website in your country for the most current requirements before traveling. Some states or localities may have additional health measures. Testing requirements, quarantine rules, and vaccination policies can be updated with little notice.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

U.S. Embassy/Consulate

Find the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country at usembassy.gov for visa applications and consular services

For emergencies while in the U.S., contact your own country's embassy or consulate in the United States

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Official website: cbp.gov | Customer service: 1-877-227-5511 (from outside U.S.: 703-526-4200)

For questions about customs, entry requirements, and bringing items into the U.S.

U.S. Department of State

Travel information: travel.state.gov | Visa information and applications

Official source for visa requirements, travel advisories, and consular information

Emergency Services - Billings

Emergency number: 911 (police, fire, ambulance)

For life-threatening emergencies only. Works from any phone, including cell phones without service

USCIS (Immigration Services)

Website: uscis.gov | Contact: 1-800-375-5283

For visa extensions, change of status, and other immigration matters while in the U.S.

Billings Logan International Airport

Airport code: BIL | Website: flybillings.com | Phone: (406) 247-8609

For flight information and airport services

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (including infants). Minors traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) authorizing travel, including contact information. CBP may question children traveling with only one parent or with adults who are not their parents. Adoption papers or custody documents may be requested. Unaccompanied minors require special airline arrangements and documentation.

Traveling with Pets

Dogs and cats: Must have rabies vaccination certificate (dogs must be at least 12 weeks old and vaccinated at least 30 days before entry). Health certificate issued by licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel recommended. CDC suspended the dog importation ban from high-risk rabies countries in 2023, but check current rules. Birds: Require quarantine and permits from CDC and USDA. Other animals: Contact CDC and USDA-APHIS for specific requirements. Service animals have additional documentation requirements. Montana may have additional state requirements.

Extended Stays or Visa Extensions

VWP visitors (ESTA) cannot extend their stay beyond 90 days and must leave the U.S. Those on B-1/B-2 visas can apply for extension using Form I-539 with USCIS, filed before current authorization expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and require valid reasons. For longer stays, consider appropriate visa categories (student F-1, work H-1B, etc.). Overstaying can result in deportation and future entry bans. Check your I-94 for authorized stay period.

Business Travelers

Business visitors on VWP/ESTA or B-1 visa can attend meetings, conferences, negotiate contracts, but cannot perform work or receive U.S. salary. Bring invitation letters, conference registration, or business contact information. Samples and business equipment may require special customs documentation (ATA Carnet). Longer business assignments may require work visas (H-1B, L-1, etc.).

Students and Exchange Visitors

Students require F-1 visa (academic) or M-1 visa (vocational) with I-20 form from SEVIS-approved school. Exchange visitors need J-1 visa with DS-2019 form. Must prove intent to return home after studies. Can enter U.S. up to 30 days before program start date. SEVIS fee must be paid before visa interview. Dependents need F-2 or J-2 visas.

Canadian Citizens

Canadian citizens generally do not need visas for tourist or business visits up to 6 months but must carry valid passport (or enhanced driver's license/NEXUS card at land borders). However, Canadians need visas for work, study, or other non-tourist purposes. Same customs and declaration requirements apply. Canadian permanent residents who are not citizens need appropriate visas or ESTA based on their nationality.

Transit Passengers

Even if only transiting through a U.S. airport to another country, most travelers need valid ESTA or visa. Some exceptions exist under limited transit programs. If leaving the airport during transit, full entry requirements apply. International-to-international transits still require clearing U.S. immigration.