Montpelier Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Montpelier, the capital city of Vermont, is located in the United States of America. As such, travelers visiting Montpelier must comply with U.S. federal immigration and customs requirements. The entry process is governed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Whether you're arriving by air through nearby airports such as Burlington International Airport (approximately 38 miles away) or by land from Canada (the Canadian border is roughly 60 miles north), all international visitors must present valid travel documents and undergo immigration inspection. The United States operates the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for citizens of 40 countries, allowing them to visit for tourism or business for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa, though they must apply for ESTA authorization before travel. Citizens of countries not participating in the VWP must obtain the appropriate visa from a U.S. embassy or consulate before traveling. The immigration process includes passport verification, biometric collection (fingerprints and photograph), questioning about the purpose of visit, and customs declaration. Travelers should be prepared for thorough security screening and should arrive with all necessary documentation, including proof of onward travel, accommodation details, and evidence of sufficient funds for their stay. Processing times at ports of entry can vary, so allowing extra time for connections is advisable. Vermont's proximity to the Canadian border means that some visitors may enter overland from Canada, where similar documentation and inspection procedures apply at land border crossings.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Visa requirements for visiting Montpelier follow U.S. federal immigration law. Requirements vary based on nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP) with ESTA

Up to 90 days (extension not permitted)

Citizens of 40 participating countries can travel to the U.S. for tourism or business without a 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

How to Apply: Must apply for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) online at least 72 hours before departure. Approval typically granted within minutes but can take up to 72 hours.
Cost: USD $21 per application

Must have an e-passport (with electronic chip). ESTA is valid for 2 years or until passport expires. Travelers must not have visited Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen since March 2011 (with limited exceptions). Cannot be extended or changed to another visa status while in the U.S.

Visa Required - B1/B2 Tourist/Business Visa

Typically granted for 6 months per entry; visa validity can be up to 10 years depending on reciprocity

Citizens of countries not in the VWP must obtain a visa before travel

How to Apply: Apply online through the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. Process includes: complete DS-160 form online, pay application fee, schedule and attend visa interview at embassy/consulate. Processing time varies by location (typically 3-5 weeks but can be longer).
Cost: USD $185 application fee (non-refundable)

Major countries requiring visas include: China, India, Russia, Brazil, South Africa, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, and most African and Middle Eastern countries. Applicants must demonstrate strong ties to home country and intent to return. Supporting documents include employment letter, bank statements, property ownership, and detailed travel itinerary.

Canadian and Bermudian Citizens

Up to 6 months for tourism/business

Special provisions for Canadian and Bermudian citizens

Includes

Canada Bermuda

Canadian citizens generally do not need a visa or ESTA for tourism or business visits. Must present valid Canadian passport or enhanced driver's license at port of entry. Bermudian citizens can enter visa-free for up to 180 days with valid passport.

Other Visa Categories

Varies by visa type

Visas for specific purposes beyond tourism

F-1 (students), J-1 (exchange visitors), H-1B (work), L-1 (intracompany transfer), and other categories available. Each has specific requirements and application processes through U.S. embassy/consulate.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry (airport or land border crossing), all international travelers must undergo immigration inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers. The process is designed to verify identity, determine admissibility, and ensure compliance with U.S. immigration law.

Arrival and Queuing

Follow signs to passport control/immigration. Separate lines exist for U.S. citizens/residents and international visitors. Some airports have Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks for eligible travelers.

Primary Inspection

Present your passport, visa (if applicable), and customs declaration form to the CBP officer. Officer will scan your documents, take your photograph, and collect fingerprints (biometric data). Be prepared to answer questions about your trip.

Secondary Inspection (if required)

Some travelers may be referred to secondary inspection for additional questioning or document verification. This is routine and doesn't necessarily indicate a problem. Remain calm and answer all questions truthfully.

Baggage Claim

After clearing immigration, collect your checked luggage from the baggage carousel.

Customs Declaration

Proceed to customs exit. You may be randomly selected for baggage inspection. Present your completed customs declaration form. Declare all items as required by law.

Exit and Onward Travel

Once cleared, exit the customs area. If connecting to Montpelier, proceed to ground transportation or connecting flights.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay (some countries have exemptions under the Six-Month Club). Must be machine-readable with biographical page.

Visa or ESTA Approval

Depending on nationality: approved ESTA (print confirmation), valid U.S. visa in passport, or visa exemption for Canadians/Bermudians.

Return/Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from the U.S. within your authorized stay period. Can be airline ticket, bus ticket, or cruise documentation.

Customs Declaration Form (CBP Form 6059B)

Usually distributed on flights or available at port of entry. Must be completed by all travelers, declaring items being brought into the U.S.

Accommodation Details

Address where you'll be staying in the U.S. (hotel reservation, friend's address, etc.). Required for immigration forms.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence you can support yourself during your stay: bank statements, credit cards, cash, traveler's checks, or sponsorship letter.

Supporting Documents

May include: employment letter, travel itinerary, invitation letter, travel insurance, proof of ties to home country. Not always requested but good to have available.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Answer all questions truthfully and concisely. Don't volunteer unnecessary information, but be honest and direct.

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching the immigration counter.

Dress neatly and professionally. First impressions matter.

Turn off your phone and remove headphones when approaching immigration. Be respectful and courteous to officers.

Know your complete itinerary, including addresses and contact information for where you'll be staying.

If you don't understand a question, politely ask for clarification rather than guessing.

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

Allow extra time for immigration and customs processing, especially during peak travel periods. Budget at least 1-2 hours for international connections.

Download and save electronic copies of important documents (passport, visa, ESTA, reservations) on your phone or cloud storage.

If entering by land from Canada, be prepared for similar inspection procedures at land border crossings. Wait times can be checked online at cbp.gov.

Customs & Duty-Free

U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulates what items can be brought into the United States. All travelers must declare items acquired abroad and items they intend to leave in the U.S. Failure to declare items can result in penalties, seizure, or criminal prosecution.

Alcohol

1 liter (33.8 fl oz) of alcoholic beverages duty-free for personal use

Must be 21 years or older. Additional quantities subject to duty and federal tax. State laws may impose additional restrictions; Vermont allows personal importation but verify current state limits.

Tobacco

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

Must be 18 years or older (21 in some states, including Vermont as of 2019). Cuban cigars can now be brought in for personal use but subject to limits. Additional quantities subject to duty.

Currency

No limit on amount that can be brought in

Must declare if carrying more than USD $10,000 (or equivalent in foreign currency) in cash, monetary instruments, or negotiable instruments. Use FinCEN Form 105. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties.

Gifts/Goods

Up to USD $800 worth of goods duty-free for personal use (for most travelers returning from most countries)

Exemption is $800 for items accompanying you. Family members can combine exemptions. Goods over this amount are subject to duty. Keep receipts for all purchases. Items for commercial use have different rules.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - strictly prohibited under federal law
Absinthe with thujone - prohibited by FDA
Most fresh fruits and vegetables - agricultural restrictions to prevent pests and diseases
Meat and poultry products from most countries - USDA restrictions (canned and commercially packaged may be allowed)
Soil or plants in soil - agricultural restrictions
Certain wildlife and products made from endangered species - CITES restrictions
Counterfeit goods and pirated media - trademark and copyright violations
Haitian animal hide drums - disease concerns
Biological materials and pathogens - require permits
Certain cultural artifacts and antiquities - may require documentation
Switchblade knives and certain weapons - federal restrictions
Lottery tickets - prohibited for importation
Merchandise from embargoed countries - subject to OFAC restrictions

Restricted Items

Firearms and ammunition - must be declared; requires ATF Form 6 for permanent import; strict regulations apply
Prescription medications - must be in original containers with labels; carry doctor's prescription; limited to personal use quantities (usually 90-day supply)
Pets (dogs and cats) - require valid rabies vaccination certificate; health certificate from veterinarian; CDC and USDA requirements
Fish and wildlife products - may require permits from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; includes hunting trophies
Certain cheeses and dairy products - USDA restrictions; hard, aged cheeses generally allowed; soft cheeses often prohibited
Bakery goods and cured meats - some allowed, others restricted; commercially packaged generally easier
Alcoholic beverages above duty-free limits - subject to federal tax and duty; state regulations may apply
Agricultural products - many require permits or phytosanitary certificates; declare all food items
Medication containing controlled substances - requires DEA license or written statement from doctor; limited quantities
Cultural property and archaeological artifacts - may require export certificate from country of origin

Health Requirements

The United States has specific health requirements for entry, primarily focused on vaccination status and preventing the introduction of communicable diseases. Requirements can change, especially in response to public health emergencies.

Required Vaccinations

COVID-19: As of May 2023, COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required for international air travelers entering the U.S. However, requirements can be reinstated - check current CDC guidelines before travel.
Immigrant and adjustment of status applicants must show proof of vaccination against vaccine-preventable diseases (measles, mumps, rubella, polio, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type B, hepatitis A and B, rotavirus, meningococcal disease, varicella, pneumococcal disease, and seasonal influenza) - this applies to those seeking permanent residency, not tourists.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations: Ensure up-to-date on routine vaccines including MMR, DPT, chickenpox, polio, and yearly flu shot
Hepatitis A and B: Recommended for most travelers
COVID-19: While no longer required, vaccination is strongly recommended
Consult your doctor or travel clinic 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized recommendations

Health Insurance

Health insurance is not required for entry into the U.S. as a tourist, but is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED. The United States does not have universal healthcare, and medical costs are extremely high. A simple emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars. Comprehensive travel health insurance covering medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical evacuation is highly advisable. Verify your policy covers care in the U.S. Some travel insurance policies also cover trip cancellation, lost baggage, and other travel disruptions. Vermont has excellent medical facilities, but services are expensive without insurance.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly in response to disease outbreaks or public health emergencies. Always check the following sources within 72 hours of departure: CDC website (wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel), U.S. embassy website in your country, and your airline's requirements. Monitor for updates on COVID-19 policies, mask requirements, testing requirements, and quarantine rules. Some states may have additional health measures. If you develop symptoms of illness during travel, inform flight crew or border officials immediately.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Official information on entry requirements, customs, and immigration

Website: cbp.gov | Phone: +1-877-227-5511 (from outside U.S.: +1-202-325-8000) | Mobile app: CBP Mobile Passport Control

U.S. Department of State - Bureau of Consular Affairs

Visa information and travel advisories

Website: travel.state.gov | For visa questions, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country

ESTA Application

Official ESTA application for Visa Waiver Program travelers

Website: esta.cbp.dhs.gov | Only use the official .gov website; beware of third-party sites charging excessive fees

Emergency Services (Montpelier/Vermont)

Police, Fire, Ambulance emergency number

Dial 911 from any phone (including mobile phones without service). For non-emergency police: Montpelier Police (802) 223-3445

Your Country's Embassy/Consulate

Contact your embassy or consulate in the U.S. for citizen services

Nearest major consulates are in Boston, MA or Montreal, QC (Canada). Register with your embassy's travel registration system (e.g., STEP for U.S. citizens abroad, similar programs for other countries)

Vermont Department of Health

State health information and requirements

Phone: 802-863-7200 | Website: healthvermont.gov

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Health requirements and travel health information

Website: cdc.gov/travel | Travelers' Health Hotline: 1-800-232-4636

Burlington International Airport (BTV)

Nearest major airport to Montpelier (38 miles)

Phone: 802-863-1889 | Website: btv.aero | Ground transportation to Montpelier available via rental car, shuttle, or taxi

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children, including infants, must have their own passport and meet the same visa/ESTA requirements as adults. If child is traveling with only one parent or with someone other than parents, carry: notarized letter of consent from non-traveling parent(s) authorizing travel; copy of child's birth certificate; copies of parents' passports or IDs. For children in sole custody situations, carry custody documents. CBP officers are trained to identify potential child abduction and may ask questions. Divorced or separated parents should carry custody documents. Adopted children should carry adoption papers. These requirements help prevent international child abduction.

Traveling with Pets

Dogs: Must be healthy upon arrival. Rabies vaccination required for dogs 3 months and older (must be at least 30 days before arrival but no more than 12 months). CDC dog import form required. Dogs from high-risk rabies countries have additional requirements. Cats: No federal requirements for rabies vaccination, but must appear healthy. Some states (including Vermont) may require rabies vaccination - check state requirements. Health certificate from licensed veterinarian recommended, issued within 10 days of travel. Birds: Require import permit from USDA and quarantine. Other pets: Regulations vary by species; check with CDC and USDA. Service animals: Same vaccination requirements apply. Airlines have specific pet policies - confirm requirements with your airline. Emotional support animals are no longer recognized by airlines as service animals for air travel.

Extended Stays/Study/Work

Tourist visas (B1/B2) and VWP/ESTA cannot be extended beyond initial authorized stay and do not permit work or study. For stays longer than tourist allowance: F-1 visa for academic study at accredited institution; M-1 visa for vocational study; J-1 visa for exchange programs; H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, L-1 for employment (employer must sponsor); O-1 for individuals with extraordinary ability. Applications must be made from outside the U.S. at embassy/consulate before travel. Cannot change from tourist status to work/study status while in U.S. in most cases. Overstaying your authorized period can result in removal and bars to future entry (3-year bar for overstays of 180+ days, 10-year bar for overstays of 1+ year).

Business Travel

VWP/ESTA or B-1 visa allows business activities including: attending meetings, conferences, conventions; negotiating contracts; consulting with business associates. NOT permitted: actual employment, receiving salary from U.S. source, productive work. Carry supporting documents: letter from employer explaining purpose; invitation from U.S. company; conference registration. For paid performances, professional sports, or certain business activities, different visa categories required (O, P, H-1B, etc.).

Dual Citizens

U.S. citizens (including dual nationals) must enter and exit the U.S. using their U.S. passport, regardless of other citizenships held. This is a legal requirement under U.S. law. If you hold U.S. citizenship and citizenship of a VWP country, you cannot use ESTA - you must use your U.S. passport. Dual citizens of U.S. and non-VWP country must enter on U.S. passport. Children born in the U.S. are U.S. citizens and must have U.S. passport for entry.

Criminal Records

Certain criminal convictions can make you inadmissible to the U.S., including crimes involving moral turpitude, drug offenses, multiple criminal convictions, prostitution, human trafficking, and others. Even arrests without conviction can cause issues. If you have a criminal record: VWP/ESTA may be denied - you'll need to apply for a visa at embassy/consulate; be prepared to provide court documents, police certificates; consider applying for a waiver of inadmissibility; never lie on immigration forms or to officers - misrepresentation can result in permanent ban. Minor traffic offenses (speeding tickets) generally don't affect admissibility. Consult with an immigration attorney if you have concerns about criminal history.

Previous Immigration Violations

Previous overstays, visa violations, or removals from the U.S. can affect future entry. Overstays trigger automatic bars: 180+ days = 3-year bar; 1+ year = 10-year bar. Previous removal/deportation can result in 5, 10, or 20-year bars, or permanent bar depending on circumstances. Even if eligible for visa waiver, previous violations may require visa application. ESTA applications are often denied for those with previous violations. Be honest about immigration history - lying results in permanent inadmissibility. Waivers may be available in some cases - consult immigration attorney.