U.S. tightens boat crossing rules

Ken Johnston

Changes to the rules governing crossing the border in a boat have been tightened up.
In a press release last week the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency announced that private boaters will be required to report to specified ports of entry for inspection.
There are three ways they can do that. They can still report in person at Baudette and be physically inspected. Or be in possession of an I-68 season border crossing permit that would allow them to phone in to the nearest customs facility once landing in the U.S. The third option is to report in at one of four video phone (Outlying Area Reporting Stations) locations at Northwest Angle or International Falls.
The second option has seen the application process become more demanding. No longer can the I-68s be renewed by mail. In fact all applicants will have to appear in person at U.S. customs and have background checks.
CBP says this is in the name of better border security and urges people to visit customs well in advance of their planned trips via boat to apply for an I-68. The permit, once approved will be good for the entire boating season. They cost $16 U.S. for an individual or $32 U.S. for a family.
For more information on crossing the border Baudette customs can be reached at 218-634-2803.