Baltimore Entry Requirements

Baltimore Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Important Notice Entry requirements can change at any time. Always verify current requirements with official government sources before traveling.
Information last reviewed December 2024. Always verify with official government sources before traveling.
Baltimore, Maryland's largest city and a major US seaport, welcomes millions of international visitors annually through Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). As part of the United States entry system, all travelers must comply with federal immigration requirements regardless of their final destination within the country. The entry process involves standard US Customs and Border Protection procedures, where officials verify travel documents, conduct brief interviews, and inspect luggage. Baltimore's proximity to Washington D.C. makes it an attractive entry point for tourists planning to explore the Mid-Atlantic region, with excellent transportation links to the nation's capital and other major East Coast cities. Before traveling to Baltimore, visitors should ensure they have proper documentation, understand visa requirements, and prepare for the immigration interview process. The city experiences varied weather throughout the year, with hot summers and mild winters, so checking Baltimore weather forecasts before packing is advisable. Whether you're visiting for business, planning to stay in Baltimore hotels, or exploring things to do in Baltimore including Inner Harbor attractions, proper preparation will ensure a smooth entry experience. Baltimore offers numerous free things to do and hosts various events year-round, making it an excellent destination for travelers seeking authentic American experiences.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Baltimore follows standard US visa policies administered by federal authorities. Requirements vary by nationality and purpose of visit.

Visa-Free Entry
90 days maximum stay

Citizens of 40 countries can enter under the Visa Waiver Program

Includes
United Kingdom Germany France Italy Spain Netherlands Australia Japan South Korea Singapore Sweden Norway Denmark Finland Switzerland Austria Belgium Ireland Portugal Greece

Must obtain ESTA authorization before travel

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA/eVisa)
90 days maximum stay

ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) required for visa-free travelers

Includes
All Visa Waiver Program countries
How to Apply: Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov, processing typically within 72 hours
Cost: $21 USD

Valid for 2 years or until passport expires

Visa Required
Typically 6 months maximum stay

Citizens of countries not in Visa Waiver Program need B-2 tourist visa

How to Apply: Apply at US embassy/consulate, interview usually required

Processing time varies by country, typically 2-8 weeks

Arrival Process

Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) is the primary entry point for international travelers visiting Baltimore. The immigration process follows standard US federal procedures.

1
Primary Inspection
Present passport, visa/ESTA, and customs declaration form to CBP officer
2
Biometric Collection
Provide fingerprints and photograph digitally
3
Secondary Inspection (if selected)
Additional questioning or luggage inspection may occur randomly or based on specific triggers
4
Baggage Claim
Collect checked luggage from designated carousel
5
Customs Inspection
Submit customs declaration and possibly undergo luggage inspection

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport
Must be valid for duration of stay, preferably 6+ months
Visa or ESTA Authorization
Required for all non-US citizens
Customs Declaration Form
Distributed on aircraft or available at kiosks
Return/Onward Ticket
Proof of intention to leave within authorized period

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have hotel confirmation and return flight details readily available
Answer questions directly and honestly - don't volunteer extra information
Keep important documents in carry-on luggage, not checked bags
Allow 2-3 hours for immigration and customs, during peak times

Customs & Duty-Free

US Customs and Border Protection regulates what you can bring into Baltimore duty-free and what must be declared.

Alcohol
1 liter of alcohol (33.8 fl. oz.)
Must be 21+ years old. State laws may restrict amounts for personal use
Tobacco
200 cigarettes or 100 cigars
Must be 21+ years old. Cuban cigars prohibited
Currency
$10,000 USD or equivalent
Must declare amounts exceeding $10,000 on FinCEN Form 105
Gifts/Goods
$800 USD per person
Family members can combine allowances. $200 for mail shipments

Prohibited Items

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables - agricultural pests and diseases
  • Meat products from most countries - disease prevention
  • Counterfeit goods - intellectual property violations
  • Illegal drugs - federal law enforcement

Restricted Items

  • Medications - must be in original containers with prescription labels
  • Electronics over $800 - may require duty payment
  • Cultural artifacts - may require export permits from country of origin

Health Requirements

The US has specific health requirements for entry, though most routine vaccinations are not mandatory for tourists.

Required Vaccinations

  • COVID-19 vaccination recommended but not required as of May 2023

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Routine vaccinations (MMR, DPT, flu)
  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Typhoid (for certain travelers)

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance strongly recommended due to high US medical costs. Not mandatory but essential for visitors.

Current Health Requirements: Check CDC website for current COVID-19 requirements. No testing required for air passengers as of June 2023.
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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate
Find your country's embassy or consulate
Check your government's travel advisory website
Immigration Authority
US Customs and Border Protection - cbp.gov
For visa applications and official information
Emergency
911 - Emergency services number
Police, ambulance, fire - works throughout Baltimore

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children need individual passports. If traveling with only one parent, carry notarized consent letter from absent parent

Traveling with Pets

Dogs need rabies vaccination certificate, cats may need health certificate. Check airline pet policies in advance

Extended Stays

Apply for extension with USCIS before current status expires. Tourist visa holders file Form I-539

Know what to pack

Climate-specific clothing, travel documents, electronics, and gear — with shopping links for every item.

View Baltimore Packing List →

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