Inside Dulles: How U.S. Customs Screens Travelers

By Josie Moralidad Ziman

Washington Dulles International Airport – one of the United States’ busiest international gateways – hosted an exclusive tour this morning for foreign journalists, offering a behind-the-scenes look at U.S. Customs and Border Protection operations.

The reporting visit, organized by the U.S. State Department’s Foreign Press Center and led by Media Relations Officer Leah M. Knobel, gave rare access to CBP’s role in border enforcement and national security.

As part of the delegation, I interviewed CBP officials including Supervisor Matthew Armour, Agriculture Branch Chief Christopher Brewer, and Public Affairs Chief Steve Sapp.

They offered a comprehensive overview of how travelers—both immigrants and non-immigrants—are screened at U.S. ports of entry.

INSPECTION PROCESS

Every traveler arriving in the U.S. first undergoes primary inspection, where CBP officers verify documents, ask routine questions, and assess admissibility using law enforcement and national security databases.

“If everything checks out and the traveler can clearly explain their purpose and plans, they’re typically cleared within minutes,” said Armour.

If there are red flags—unclear travel plans, missing documents, or suspicious behavior—a traveler may be referred for secondary inspection.

This deeper review includes additional questioning, baggage inspection, and checks across more databases.

“Secondary inspection isn’t a punishment,” Armour said.

“It’s an extra layer of due diligence to ensure we’re making the right decision about someone’s entry.”

CBP officials urged travelers to be honest and informed.

“Know your travel details—where you’re staying, who you’re visiting, what you’re doing,” Armour advised.

“And always tell the truth.”

MYTHS AND MISUNDERSTANDINGS

Officials addressed common misconceptions, including fears about social media scrutiny and racial profiling.

They clarified that while online activity may prompt further review, CBP does not screen travelers based on race, nationality, or religion.

“Less than 1% of travelers are deemed inadmissible,” Sapp noted.

“Most of our work is invisible and done before a traveler even boards their plane.”

Still, the process and uniformed officers can intimidate some, especially first-time visitors.

“If you’re coming to the United States for the right reasons, there is nothing to fear,” Armour reassured.

WHAT NOT TO BRING

A major CBP priority is preventing harmful pests and diseases from entering the U.S. through food and agricultural products.

Chief Brewer emphasized that travelers – especially from countries like the Philippines – must be cautious about what they bring.

Prohibited items include:

• Balut (duck egg embryo)
• Raw or cooked meats (pork, chicken, beef)
• Chicharon (pork rinds)
• Fresh coconuts
• Fresh vegetables

Brewer said even small quantities of these foods can threaten U.S. agriculture.

His advice: declare everything and check CBP rules before flying.

AMERICA’S GATEKEEPERS

CBP, under the Department of Homeland Security, enforces immigration, trade, and agricultural laws while ensuring secure, lawful travel.

“This is about sovereignty,” Armour said.

“Like any country, the United States has the right and duty to know who is coming and going.”

The visit provided valuable insight into CBP’s balance of security, vigilance, and public service.