US Port of Entry Codes Explained

Travelers coming to the will receive a code used to locate a port of entry, necessary for entering the country, as per the guidelines outlined by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of PoE codes and provide an exhaustive list of the many codes for the U.S.

Port of Entry Codes Explained

When you are a traveler going to the United States (F1 visa holders in particular) you have to pass through the US PoE (Port of Entry). Sometimes, you may be taken through an Automated Control Process Kiosk, after which you will go through an interview with a CBP officer. Other times, you may be asked to file out an I-94 form, after which you still need to pass through the interview.

Once that has passed, the officer taking you through the interview will put a stamp on your passport. That stamp will feature a 3-letter entry code, which will tell exactly which port of entry you used to enter the USA. It is also part of the U.S. Customs process when leaving the country, so it is essential that you take a close look at the code, and learn of its location.

US Customs and Border Protection Port of Entry Codes

Each port of entry will have its own code (i.e., a CPB code) which is descriptive of the location it passed through. Here are the codes that you will get stamped upon entering the U.S.

For updates on point of entry locations and a full list of the codes, you may want to check the state government website for US CBP Codes.

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Final Thoughts

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) are constantly making updates on the requirements necessary to enter the United States. Make sure that you locate your point of entry and that you receive your code, ensuring that your visit is within the requirements outlined by the CDC and CBP.

US Port of Entry FAQ

As a traveler to the U.S., you may still have questions concerning the port of entry requirements. Here are the most commonly asked questions, along with their answers:

What is a Port of Entry Code?

A Port of Entry (POE) Code is an alphanumeric code used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to identify the specific port through which a person enters the United States.

Where Can I Find My Port of Entry Code?

Your Port of Entry Code is typically found on your admission stamp or paper Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record).

Why is the Port of Entry Code Important?

It is used for immigration tracking and record-keeping. It helps authorities know where and when you entered the U.S.

What Does the Code Look Like?

The code usually consists of three letters, representing the specific port of entry. For example, “JFK” for John F. Kennedy International Airport.

How Do I Interpret the Port of Entry Code?

Each code corresponds to a specific location. You can look up the meaning of each code on the CBP website or consult an immigration professional.

Does the Port of Entry Code Affect My Immigration Status?

The code itself does not affect your immigration status, but it is a part of your entry record, which is important for legal proceedings or status adjustments.

What Should I Do if My Port of Entry Code is Incorrect?

If you believe there is an error, contact the nearest CBP office or seek guidance from an immigration attorney.

Are There Different Codes for Different Types of Entry Points?

Yes, there are different codes for airports, land border crossings, and seaports.

Can the Port of Entry Code Change Over Time?

Codes are generally stable, but in rare cases, they may change or be updated.

Where Can I Get More Information?

For more detailed information, visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website or consult an immigration attorney.

What Are the Requirements for Travelers Entering the United States Through Land PoEs?

Before coming to the United States., a traveler who is not from the United States needs to provide the following documentation:

• Proof of vaccination, as has been specified by the CDC.
• Verbal attestation of the vaccination status at the border inspection
• A valid passport with a travel visa, if necessary. Travelers should provide documents to show that they comply with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative of the I.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Each point of entry may have different requirements, depending on the traveler and the area they are coming from. Make sure you are up to date with the vaccine schemes recommended by the CDC.

What Are the Requirements to Get into the U.S. for Children Under the Age of 18 that Cannot Be Vaccinated?

Children that are under the age of 18 are exempt from the vaccination requirement, both at the ferry and the land PoEs. The Port of Entry process for F1 students does not require a vaccine, as long as the student has yet to reach the required age.

Frank Gogol

I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.

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