CBP ISSUES ADVISORIES FOR JFK AND ATL AIRPORTS

July 15, 2020

  • JFK International Airport – Due to a large number of dogs arriving without proper documentation CBP at John F. Kennedy International Airport issued a reminder to stakeholders to encourage them to familiarize themselves with CDC entry requirements prior to transporting the dogs. Any dog arriving in the United States from a “high-risk” country, listed here, must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate issued on or after the dog is 12 weeks of age, and the dog must wait 28 days after initial vaccination before entering the United States.  These rules apply to all dogs, including puppies, service animals, and emotional support dogs. These rules also apply whether the owners are (1) just visiting the United States with their dogs, (2) importing dogs into the United States, or (3) traveling out of the United States and returning with their dog after a temporary visit, such as a vacation or holiday.  If a dog does NOT meet CDC requirements, the dog may be denied entry upon arrival in the United States. If denied entry, the dog may be sent back to the last country of departure at the importer’s expense. This policy could potentially conflict with DOT’s rule on the non-discriminatory treatment of passengers with disabilities in the event a service or emotional support dog are denied entry into the United States.

  • Atlanta International Airport – On May 29, U.S. Customs and Border Protection at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport issued a notice to clarify the responsibilities of the airport and commercial carriers to properly maintain the Federal Inspection Service facility, as well as any related Federal Government offices. The Notice cites to 8 USC 1223(b),(d), which requires that international airports and carriers have suitable “landing stations” to receive foreign aliens when transported into the U.S. from a foreign territory. The Notice further cites 19 CFR 122.11(c), which requires all international airports to provide the Federal Government with necessary office space and other working areas at no cost. Finally, the Notice reminds carriers that it is there responsibility to ensure the CBP areas are properly maintained and janitorial services are provided.  The notice applies to all airport international passenger processing facilities.

If you have any questions, please contact Evelyn Sahr (esahr@eckertseamans.com or 202-659-6622); Drew Derco (dderco@eckertseamans.com or 202-659-6665), or Andy Orr (aorr@eckertsemans.com or 202-659-6625).

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Authors

Evelyn D. Sahr Photo Washington, D.C.

Evelyn D. Sahr

Member - Washington, D.C.

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Drew M. Derco Photo Washington, D.C.

Drew M. Derco

Member - Washington, D.C.

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Andrew P. Orr Photo Washington, D.C.

Andrew P. Orr

Member - Washington, D.C.

See full bio