U.S. CUSTOMS ANNOUNCES “ROAM” REPORTING APP FOR NON-AKWESASRONON
For Immediate Release:
Seskéha/August 8, 2024
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne and Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe are informing the community of an announcement from the U.S. Customs & Border Protection Agency (USCBP) that will benefit visitors to Akwesasne and non-Akwesasne residents who work in the community.
USCBP has expanded the agency’s Reporting Offsite Arrival-Mobile (ROAM) application to include the Akwesasne Territory, specifically the areas of Tsi Snaihne (Snye) and Kana:takon (St. Regis).
While Akwesasronon (“from Akwesasne”) can freely pass between the Quebec districts (Tsi Snaihne & Kana:takon) and New York State without reporting to US Customs, non-Akwesasne residents are required to report to the nearest Port of Entry when arriving in New York from those districts. For example, Non-Akwesasne employees who teach at our schools in Kana:takon and Tsi Snaihne have been required to stop at the Rooseveltown Port of Entry on their way home to Cornwall to report that they had arrived in New York State, despite only traversing through. Now, these individuals can report through the new ROAM app instead.
What is the ROAM App?
The ROAM app, previously utilized in the small boat environment, has now been extended to certain land border locations, including Akwesasne. This app allows travelers to report their arrival into the United States through a mobile device, potentially including a video conference with CBP officers.
Launch Date:
The expanded use of the ROAM app began on July 29, 2024.
Benefits:
This new reporting option provides greater flexibility and convenience, saving valuable time for travelers by allowing them to check in from any location using a compatible device with 4G/LTE or Wi-Fi. It is especially helpful for those frequently traveling between Canada and the U.S. for work, school, or business, easing the burden of current reporting procedures.
How to Use the ROAM App:
The app is available for download on Apple and Android devices under “CBP ROAM.” Travelers can create a profile and submit their information for a CBP video conference while still in Canada. Information can be saved for future crossings.
Alternative Reporting:
Travelers without access to the ROAM app can continue to report and check in at the nearest Port of Entry.
We encourage all visitors and non-Akwesasronon employees to take advantage of this convenient tool for their travel needs. For more information or assistance, please visit the CBP website: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/pleasure-boats/pleasure-boat-overview/roam