Worried that your "poor English" might stop you from traveling abroad? Must-know English phrases for passing through customs!

FunTime Editorial Team

For those who rarely speak English, the most nerve-wracking part of entering a foreign country is dealing with customs officers asking all kinds of questions. To avoid misunderstandings in communication, it's a good idea to do a little practice before you go. Below are some common scenarios and how to respond to them!

Before packing your luggage and getting on the plane, pay special attention to what you can’t bring on board. Things like liquids over 100ml, or the Note7 phone recently in the news for exploding... and so on.

Your first impression on customs officers is very important—try to show a sincere look and a cooperative attitude at this time.

Q1. Please show me your passport.
May I see your passport, please?

A1. Here is my passport, and this is the entry application form.
Here is my passport,And this is the declaration form.

Asking about your visit purpose is to understand whether you will engage in any illegal activities, so they will also ask how long you plan to stay.

Q2. What is the purpose of your visit?
What’s the purpose of your visit?

A2. I’m here for travel.
I’m here on tour.

Other purposes you can say:

■ with a tour group — traveling with a tour group
■ to visit friends/relatives — visiting friends or relatives
■ for a travel study program — short-term study trip
■ for business — on a business trip

Q3. What is your final destination?
What is your final destination?

A3-1. I am going to ___.
I am going to ___. (location)

A3-2. I am here to transfer to ___.
I am here to transfer to ___. (location)

Q4. How long will you be staying?
How long will you be staying?

When would you like to return?
When would you like to return?

A4. I will be here for ___ days. This is my return ticket.
I will be here for ___ (number of days), and this is my return ticket to Taiwan.

I will stay here until ____.
I won’t leave until___.(the departure date)

Depending on your purpose of entry, you may sometimes be asked to present documents such as your flight ticket, visa, proof of financial means, or accommodation reservation. You should try your best to prove that you absolutely will not “skip your flight”!

However, sometimes visa-free countries may still deny you entry, so make sure to double-check before you depart!

Recommended reading:

Q5. Where will you be staying?
Where will you be staying?

A5. I will stay at the ___ hotel.
I will stay at the____hotel.

I will stay in a dormitory.
I will stay in the dorm.

Q6. How much cash are you carrying?
How much currency/ cash are you carrying?

A6. I am carrying ____ in cash.
I have____ (amount of money) in cash.

Be honest about what you have in your luggage, and beware — carrying prohibited items may result in confiscation!

Q1. What do you have in the bag?
What do you have in the bag?

A1. Just a camera, some clothes, and books.
Just my cameras, my clothes, and some books.

If you’ve brought snacks and unfortunately get caught, customs might say...

Sorry, fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat products are not allowed to be brought into the country.
Sorry. No fresh fruits, vegetables, or meats may be brought in.

You’ll have to leave it here; we will dispose of it.
You have to leave it here. We will have to dispose of them.

Another scenario is if you bought souvenirs abroad and need to claim a tax refund before checking in your luggage — remember to complete the tax refund procedures before exiting the country!

Different countries have varying restrictions on currency, tobacco, alcohol, animal and plant products, etc., carried by inbound and outbound travelers. It’s best to declare in advance to ensure smooth customs clearance!

Q1. Do you have anything to declare?
Do you have anything to declare?

A1. I don’t have anything to declare.
I have nothing to declare.

I have some expensive jewelry, and I’ve already filled out the declaration form.
Yes, I have several expensive jewelry, I’ve filled out a declaration form.

Finally, when you hear this sentence, it means you’ve successfully cleared customs!
“you’re free to go. Have a nice visit.”

Recommended reading:

■Customs
■Destination
■Accommodation
■Flight number
■Boarding pass
■Application form
■Travel document
■Transfer
■Visa
■visa waiver
■Declare
■Transfer

Friends who, like me, are afraid to speak English, quickly take notes. You won’t have to worry about being grilled or stammering when going through customs anymore!Remember to stick to the principle of “staying calm and being honest.”Brush up on your English one more time before you depart, and I’m sure the customs officers will let you through without any hassle!

[FunTime Travel Recommendations] Authorized reprint. Original source: [At the Airport Customs, Say This in English!]