Hello fellow travelers. We’ve booked our tickets, packed our bags, and off to the airport, we’ve landed and now we see the long lines in front of customs and immigration. And the fear sets in, are they going to let me through? I can be confident in saying that the customs officer is not concerned about how well you speak English. However, they’re looking at how confident and honest you answer their questions. Let Welling help you prepare for your next trip and walk effortlessly out of the airport and into your next adventure.
Today’s Sentences
- When were you born?
- What is your occupation?
- Did you pack your own bags?
- How much money do you have?
- Do you have anything to declare?
01
When were you born?
Situation 1
When were you born?
My birthday is on February 10, 1978.
Great.
And what brings you to California?
I’m here visiting the National Parks.
Situation 2
When were you born?
I was born on August 28th, 1972.
What is the purpose of your visit?
I’m here for my daughter’s wedding.
02
What is your occupation?
Situation 1
What is your occupation?
I’m an engineer for a big firm in Boston.
May I look at your passport and customs declaration form, sir?
Of course.
Situation 2
What’s your occupation, ma’am?
I’m a high school teacher.
What subject do you teach?
I teach mathematics.
03
Did you pack your own bags?
Situation 1
Did you pack your own bags?
No, my wife packed my bag while she packed hers.
Are you aware of the contents of the bag?
Yes, I checked my bags myself and I’m aware of what’s in the bag.
Situation 2
Did you pack your own bags?
Yes, I packed my own luggage.
Do you have any goods to declare?
No, nothing.
04
How much money do you have?
Situation 1
How much money do you have?
I have 3,000 USD and 800 Euros.
Have you ever been to New York before?
No, this is my first time.
Situation 2
How much money do you have?
I have about 1,000 USD in cash with me today.
What is the purpose of your stay?
I’m just visiting family during spring break.
05
Do you have anything to declare?
Situation 1
Do you have anything to declare?
Some luxury accessories.
Can you name the items and I’ll write up a receipt of duties.
Two watches and a pair of limited edition sneakers.
Situation 2
Do you have anything to declare, sir?
No, nothing of value today.
May I ask what your occupation is?
I own a few restaurants in the city.
