Quick Answer
Getting through customs typically takes 15 to 60 minutes, but can be longer during busy travel times.
Typical Timeline
- Light traffic: 15–30 minutes
- Average: 30–60 minutes
- Busy periods: 1+ hour
What Affects Processing Time
- Airport size and traffic
- Number of international arrivals
- Staffing levels
- Documentation readiness
Ways to Get Through Faster
- Have documents ready
- Use Global Entry if available
- Fill out forms in advance
Why It May Take Longer
- High passenger volume
- Additional screening
- Missing or incomplete documents
Quick Summary
Customs typically takes 15–60 minutes, but can be longer during peak times.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are needed for customs?
You typically need a passport and declaration forms.
Can customs take several hours?
Yes, during busy travel times it can take longer.
Does Global Entry speed up customs?
Yes, it can significantly reduce wait times.