U.S. Customs and Border Protection reports that the extension of the border zone in New Mexico for Border Crossing Card holders is now effective.
Border Crossing Card holders can now travel up to 55 miles from the border without obtaining a Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
Current DHS regulations state that certain nonimmigrant Mexican nationals presenting a BCC are not required to complete a CBP Form I-94 if they are staying within 25 miles of the border. In 1999, this regulation was amended for the state of Arizona to allow BCC holders to travel up to 75 miles from the border for similar economic stimulations facilitated by increased trade and travel.
CBP says this change will decrease paperwork for both the officer and the traveler and will allow CBP to better optimize its resources in New Mexico.
CBP noted it recently announced another effort also intended to decrease paperwork for both the traveler and CBP officer in the air and sea environment - the automation of the Form I-94 for air and sea travelers meaning that affected visitors will no longer need to fill out a paper form when arriving to the U.S. by air or sea, improving procedures and reducing costs as well.
Visit www.CBP.gov