Ann Arbor Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Ann Arbor, located in Michigan, is a vibrant college town in the United States. As with all U.S. destinations, travelers must comply with federal entry requirements set by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The nearest major international airport is Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), approximately 25 miles from Ann Arbor, where most international travelers will clear customs and immigration before continuing to Ann Arbor. Entry requirements depend on your nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries can visit for tourism or business for up to 90 days with an approved ESTA authorization, while other nationals require a visa. All travelers must present valid travel documents and satisfy immigration officers that they meet entry requirements. The U.S. maintains strict border controls, so proper preparation and documentation are essential. Whether you're visiting Ann Arbor for University of Michigan events, business, or tourism, understanding the entry process will help ensure a smooth arrival. Processing times at immigration can vary, so allow sufficient time for connections if continuing from Detroit. This guide covers the essential requirements, but immigration policies can change, so always verify current requirements with official U.S. government sources well before your departure date.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

The United States operates several visa categories depending on nationality and purpose of visit. Ann Arbor follows all federal U.S. immigration requirements.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP) with ESTA

Up to 90 days (non-extendable)

Citizens of 41 countries can travel to the U.S. for tourism or business without a visa

Includes

Andorra Australia Austria Belgium Brunei Chile Croatia Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Japan Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Monaco Netherlands New Zealand Norway Poland Portugal San Marino Singapore Slovakia Slovenia South Korea Spain Sweden Switzerland Taiwan United Kingdom

How to Apply: Apply online at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov at least 72 hours before travel. ESTA is valid for 2 years or until passport expires.
Cost: USD $21 per application

Must have e-passport with electronic chip. Cannot work or study. Cannot extend stay beyond 90 days. Must demonstrate ties to home country and intent to return.

Canadian Citizens

Up to 6 months (at officer's discretion)

Canadian citizens generally do not need a visa or ESTA for tourism or business

Includes

Canada

How to Apply: No advance application required for most visits
Cost: No fee for tourism/business entry

Must present valid passport or enhanced driver's license/NEXUS card. May need visa for work or study purposes.

B-1/B-2 Tourist/Business Visa Required

Typically 6 months per entry, visa valid for multiple years

Citizens of countries not in the VWP must obtain a visa before travel

How to Apply: Apply through U.S. Embassy or Consulate in home country. Complete DS-160 form online, pay fee, schedule interview, attend interview with required documents.

Processing time varies by location (typically 2-12 weeks). Interview required for most applicants. Visa does not guarantee entry - final decision made by CBP officer at port of entry. Major countries requiring visas include: China, India, Russia, Brazil, South Africa, Mexico, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and most African and Middle Eastern nations.

Other Visa Categories

Varies by visa type

Work, study, exchange, and other purposes require specific visa types

How to Apply: F-1 (students), J-1 (exchange), H-1B (specialty workers), L-1 (intracompany transfers) and others require sponsorship and separate application processes.

University of Michigan students should work with the university's International Center. Work visas require employer sponsorship. Apply well in advance as processing can take months.

Arrival Process

Most international travelers to Ann Arbor will arrive at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) and clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection there. The process involves immigration inspection, baggage claim, and customs declaration.

Complete Arrival Forms

On the flight, you may receive customs declaration forms. Many travelers can now use Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks or Mobile Passport Control app instead of paper forms.

Immigration/Passport Control

Proceed to CBP immigration area. Use APC kiosks if eligible, or join the appropriate line (U.S. Citizens/Residents or Visitors). Present passport, visa/ESTA, and be prepared to answer questions about your visit.

Biometric Collection

Most visitors will have fingerprints scanned and photo taken as part of the US-VISIT program. This is standard procedure for non-U.S. citizens.

Immigration Interview

Brief interview with CBP officer who will verify your documents, purpose of visit, and admissibility. Answer questions honestly and concisely.

Collect Baggage

After clearing immigration, collect your checked luggage from baggage claim.

Customs Declaration

Proceed to customs area with your luggage. Present your customs declaration form. You may be selected for baggage inspection or proceed directly through.

Exit and Continue to Ann Arbor

After clearing customs, exit to ground transportation or connecting flights. Ann Arbor is approximately 45 minutes from DTW by car, taxi, or shuttle service.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay (some countries exempt from this rule under Six-Month Club). Must be undamaged with readable information.

Visa or ESTA Authorization

Approved ESTA (for VWP countries) or valid U.S. visa in passport. Print ESTA confirmation for your records, though it's electronically linked to your passport.

Return/Onward Ticket

Proof of intention to leave the U.S., such as return airline ticket or itinerary showing onward travel.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, invitation letter from host, or address where you'll be staying in Ann Arbor.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence you can support yourself during your stay (bank statements, credit cards, traveler's checks).

Customs Declaration Form

Completed CBP Declaration Form 6059B (paper or electronic via APC/Mobile Passport Control).

Additional Documents (if applicable)

I-20 form (students), DS-2019 (exchange visitors), employment authorization, invitation letters, conference registration, etc.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Arrive at the airport early - international travelers should arrive 3 hours before departure for outbound flights

Download the Mobile Passport Control app before travel for faster processing at DTW

Keep all documents easily accessible in carry-on luggage, not checked bags

Answer immigration questions honestly, briefly, and confidently. Do not volunteer unnecessary information

Dress appropriately and be polite - first impressions matter to immigration officers

Have contact information readily available (hotel address, host phone number, return flight details)

Declare all items required on customs forms - penalties for false declarations are severe

Keep receipts for expensive items purchased abroad to prove ownership if questioned

If denied entry, remain calm and polite. You have the right to withdraw your application or request review

Allow at least 2-3 hours for immigration and customs clearance at DTW during peak times

Ensure your passport is signed and all visa stamps are visible and legible

Customs & Duty-Free

U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulates what items can be brought into the United States. All travelers must declare agricultural products, currency over $10,000, and items acquired abroad. Failure to declare items can result in fines, seizure, and criminal penalties.

Alcohol

1 liter of alcoholic beverages duty-free for personal use

Must be 21 years or older. Some states have additional restrictions. Additional quantities subject to duty and federal excise tax.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes (1 carton) OR 100 cigars (non-Cuban) OR 2 kg (4.4 lbs) of smoking tobacco

Must be 18 years or older (21 in some states). Cuban cigars allowed but count toward exemption. Additional quantities subject to duty.

Currency

No limit on amount, but must declare if carrying $10,000 USD or more

Includes cash, traveler's checks, money orders, and negotiable instruments. Declaration required for amounts over $10,000 using FinCEN Form 105. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties.

Gifts/Goods

$800 USD per person duty-free exemption for goods acquired abroad

Applies to items for personal use or gifts. Family members cannot combine exemptions. Goods over exemption subject to duty (typically 3% for most items). Keep receipts to prove value.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - federal offense with severe penalties
Absinthe with thujone - traditional formulations prohibited
Most fresh fruits and vegetables - strict agricultural restrictions to prevent pests
Meat and poultry products from most countries - disease prevention (some exceptions for canned/processed)
Soil or plants in soil - agricultural biosecurity
Counterfeit goods - trademark violations, subject to seizure
Certain weapons and firearms without proper permits - strict regulations apply
Endangered species products - CITES restrictions (ivory, tortoiseshell, certain furs)
Cuban products (with limited exceptions) - verify current sanctions status
Haitian animal hide drums - specific prohibition
Kinder Surprise eggs - FDA prohibition on non-nutritive objects in confectionery
Unpasteurized cheese and dairy products - FDA restrictions
Bushmeat - wild animal meat from Africa and other regions

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be in original containers with prescription label, limited to personal use quantities, controlled substances require special documentation
Firearms and ammunition - must be declared, proper permits required, strict regulations vary by type
Cultural artifacts and antiquities - may require export permits from country of origin, UNESCO restrictions apply
Biological specimens - require permits from CDC, USDA, or Fish & Wildlife Service
Certain fish and wildlife - CITES permits may be required, check FWS regulations
Alcoholic beverages over 1 liter - subject to duty and state regulations
Tobacco products over exemption limits - subject to duty and taxes
Agricultural products - many require permits or phytosanitary certificates (seeds, plants, wood products)
Pet foods and treats - restrictions on products containing animal-derived ingredients

Health Requirements

The United States has specific health requirements for entry, though routine vaccinations are generally not required for short-term visitors. Requirements vary based on country of origin and current health situations.

Required Vaccinations

COVID-19 vaccination may be required for certain visa categories - check current CDC requirements before travel
Yellow fever vaccination certificate required only if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries in Africa or South America

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, DPT, Polio) should be up to date
Influenza vaccine during flu season (October-March)
COVID-19 vaccination and boosters per CDC recommendations
Hepatitis A and B for extended stays
Any vaccinations recommended for your home country

Health Insurance

Health insurance is strongly recommended but not required for tourist entry. U.S. healthcare is expensive - a single emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars. Travel health insurance should cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Medicare and many foreign health plans do not cover care in the U.S. University of Michigan requires international students to have health insurance. Verify your coverage before traveling.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly based on disease outbreaks and public health emergencies. Check the CDC website (cdc.gov/travel) and the U.S. embassy website in your country for current COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and quarantine requirements before booking travel. Requirements may differ based on vaccination status and country of departure. Some states and institutions may have additional health requirements beyond federal rules.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

U.S. Embassy/Consulate in Your Country

Find your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for visa applications and citizen services

Visit usembassy.gov to find contact information. For visa interviews and emergency passport services.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Official information: cbp.gov | Help Desk: 1-877-227-5511

For questions about customs, duty, prohibited items, and entry requirements

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

Official information: uscis.gov | Contact Center: 1-800-375-5283

For visa status, extensions, and immigration benefits

ESTA Application System

Official ESTA website: esta.cbp.dhs.gov

Only use official .gov website - many fraudulent sites charge excessive fees

Emergency Services (Ann Arbor)

Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies

Free call from any phone, including mobile phones without service

University of Michigan International Center

For students and scholars: internationalcenter.umich.edu | Phone: 734-764-9310

Immigration advising for F-1 and J-1 visa holders at University of Michigan

Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)

Airport information: metroairport.com | Phone: 734-247-7678

For flight information, ground transportation, and airport services

Your Country's Embassy in Washington D.C.

Can provide assistance in emergencies, lost passports, and legal issues

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children, including infants, must have their own passport and visa/ESTA if required. Children under 18 traveling alone or with only one parent should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) authorizing the trip, including contact information. CBP may question children traveling with adults who are not parents/guardians. Carry birth certificates and custody documents if applicable. Adopted children should have adoption papers. Unaccompanied minors require special airline arrangements.

Traveling with Pets

Dogs and cats entering the U.S. must have rabies vaccination certificate (for dogs over 3 months old) dated at least 30 days before arrival. CDC requires valid rabies vaccination certificate. Dogs from high-risk rabies countries face additional restrictions - check CDC's list. Pets must appear healthy upon arrival. Some airlines and states have additional requirements. Service animals have different rules. Birds require import permit from USDA and quarantine. Other animals may require permits from CDC, USDA, or Fish & Wildlife Service. Contact USDA-APHIS and CDC for specific requirements.

Extended Stays or Study

Tourist visas and ESTA do not permit study or work. University of Michigan students need F-1 student visa (requires I-20 form from university). Exchange visitors need J-1 visa (requires DS-2019 form). Work requires appropriate employment visa (H-1B, L-1, etc.) sponsored by employer. Cannot change from tourist to student/work status while in U.S. - must apply from home country. Student visa allows entry up to 30 days before program start. Maintain valid status and departure within grace period.

Business Travelers

B-1 business visa or ESTA can be used for meetings, conferences, and negotiations but not employment. Permitted activities include consulting with business associates, attending conferences, negotiating contracts, and settling estates. Cannot receive U.S. salary or engage in productive employment. Bring invitation letter from U.S. company, conference registration, or evidence of business purpose. Frequent business travelers may want to consider B-1 visa even if from VWP country for longer validity.

Previous Immigration Violations or Criminal Record

Previous visa overstays, deportations, or immigration violations can result in bars to entry ranging from 3 years to permanent. Criminal convictions may make you inadmissible - even minor offenses can be grounds for denial. Drug violations are particularly serious. If you have any immigration or criminal history, consult an immigration attorney before applying. You may need a waiver. Be honest on applications - lying about history is grounds for permanent ban.

Dual Citizens

U.S. dual citizens must enter and exit the U.S. using their U.S. passport, even if traveling on another country's passport. This is a legal requirement. Non-U.S. dual citizens should use the same passport for ESTA/visa application and entry. If passport country changes, apply for new ESTA/visa.

Transit Through U.S.

Even if just transiting through a U.S. airport to another country, you must have valid ESTA or visa and clear immigration. There are no airside transit areas - all passengers must enter the U.S. Allow sufficient time for immigration and customs clearance. Your checked baggage will typically need to be collected and re-checked.

Pregnant Travelers

Pregnancy itself is not a reason for denial, but CBP may scrutinize travel if you appear to be coming to give birth in the U.S. ('birth tourism'). Be prepared to show strong ties to home country, proof of return travel, and evidence that you have arranged prenatal care at home. Medical tourism for childbirth on tourist visa is technically allowed if disclosed, but may affect future visa applications.