Area Port of Houston/Galveston
Purpose
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is pleased to announce enhanced options for processing formal vessel entries at the Area Port of Houston/Galveston. This initiative supports CBP’s commitment to modernizing maritime trade processes, in alignment with federal goals for digital platform compliance.
Key Information for Vessel Agents and Stakeholders:
For vessels designated as a FORMAL VESSEL ENTRY, agents now have the flexibility to choose between digital and traditional submission methods:
VECS Electronic Filing: Vessel agents are encouraged to utilize the Vessel Entrance and Clearence System (VECS) for submitting formal vessel entries. This digital platform streamlines the entry process.
Continued Paper Filing Option: As VECS is currently operating as a pilot program, agents retain the option to submit formal vessel entries via traditional paper documentation and make fee payments by check.
Important Procedures for Formal Entries:
Regardless of the submission method chosen, the following procedures apply to all formal vessel entries:
- Arrival Notification: When a formal vessel entry is filed in VECS, the FUSION desk will acknowledge the arrival. However, a Temporary Permit to Enter (TPE) will not be granted at this stage.
- Operational Restrictions: Vessels designated as formal vessel entries will be informed that operations (e.g., cargo discharge, passenger disembarkation) may not commence until:
- The immigration inspection is fully completed.
- All applicable fees have been paid.
- The vessel's Entrance has received official approval.
- Please note: In accordance with the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 19, Part 4, §§ 4.20 through 4.24, formal vessel entry cannot be approved until all port fees are settled.
- Fee Payment and Verification:
- CBP Officers will generate and send online payment requests via the Mobile Collections and Receipts (MCR) system. Agents presenting a check should be prepared to provide it to the officer.
- CBP will verify payment status through MCR to ensure all fees are paid.
- Granting of Free Pratique: Free Pratique, which permits communication and interaction with the shore, will only be granted once the immigration inspection is complete, all required fees are paid, and the vessel's Entrance has been officially approved by CBP.
CBP is dedicated to facilitating legitimate trade and travel while maintaining robust border security. We encourage all stakeholders to familiarize themselves with these procedures and consider leveraging the efficiencies offered by VECS and MCR.
For further information or assistance, please contact CBP Area Port of Houston/Galveston 713-454-8000.
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