Peoria Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Peoria, Illinois, is a city located in the United States, and as such, entry requirements for visiting Peoria are governed by U.S. federal immigration laws and regulations. All international travelers must comply with United States entry requirements, which include obtaining appropriate travel authorization or visas, presenting valid travel documents, and meeting health and customs requirements. The immigration process is managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and travelers will clear immigration at their first U.S. port of entry, which may be at a major international airport before connecting to Peoria. The type of authorization required depends on your nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries can enter for tourism or business for up to 90 days with an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). Other nationalities may require a traditional visa obtained through a U.S. embassy or consulate. All travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay (though some countries have agreements exempting them from this rule). Before traveling to Peoria, it's essential to research current entry requirements, as policies can change due to diplomatic relations, security concerns, or public health situations. Travelers should also be prepared to demonstrate the purpose of their visit, show proof of sufficient funds, and provide evidence of ties to their home country. General Downing Peoria International Airport (PIA) serves the region, though many international travelers may arrive through larger hubs like Chicago O'Hare International Airport before continuing to Peoria.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Visa requirements for Peoria follow U.S. federal immigration policy. The type of authorization needed depends on your nationality, with options ranging from visa-free entry under the Visa Waiver Program to traditional visa applications.

Visa-Free Entry (Visa Waiver Program with ESTA)

Up to 90 days (extension not permitted)

Citizens of 41 Visa Waiver Program countries can travel to the U.S. for tourism or business without a traditional visa

Includes

Andorra Australia Austria Belgium Brunei Chile Croatia Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Israel Italy Japan Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Monaco Netherlands New Zealand Norway Poland Portugal San Marino Singapore Slovakia Slovenia South Korea Spain Sweden Switzerland Taiwan United Kingdom

Must have an e-passport (electronic passport with embedded chip), ESTA approval before travel, and return/onward ticket. ESTA costs $21 USD and is valid for 2 years or until passport expires. Apply at least 72 hours before departure at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Cannot work or study on ESTA.

Canadian and Mexican Citizens

Up to 6 months for tourism

Special provisions for neighboring countries

Includes

Canada Mexico

How to Apply: Canadian citizens generally do not need a visa for tourism or business but must present valid passport or approved travel document. Mexican citizens may need a B-1/B-2 visa or may be eligible for a Border Crossing Card depending on circumstances.
Cost: No fee for Canadians entering for tourism; Mexican visa fees vary

Canadians do not need ESTA. Requirements may differ for work or study purposes.

Visa Required

Typically 6 months for B-1/B-2 tourist/business visas, but varies by visa type and individual circumstances

All other nationalities require a traditional visa obtained through U.S. embassy or consulate

How to Apply: Apply through U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. Process includes completing DS-160 form online, paying visa fee ($185 for B-1/B-2), scheduling interview, and attending in-person appointment with required documents. Processing time varies from days to several weeks.

Common visa types: B-1/B-2 (tourism/business), F-1 (student), J-1 (exchange visitor), H-1B (work). Start application well in advance of travel. Approval is not guaranteed and depends on individual circumstances and consular officer's assessment.

Arrival Process

When arriving in the United States to visit Peoria, you will clear immigration and customs at your first U.S. port of entry. If flying internationally, this typically occurs at a major gateway airport (such as Chicago O'Hare) before any domestic connection to Peoria. The process involves document inspection, biometric collection, and customs declaration.

Complete Arrival Forms

On your flight, you may receive customs declaration forms. Many airports now use Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks or Mobile Passport Control app instead of paper forms.

Immigration Inspection

Present your passport, ESTA confirmation or visa, and completed forms to a CBP officer. Your fingerprints and photo will be taken. The officer will ask questions about your visit and may request supporting documents.

Baggage Claim

Collect all checked luggage before proceeding to customs, even if you have a connecting flight to Peoria.

Customs Declaration

Declare all items required by law, including food, currency over $10,000, and goods exceeding duty-free allowances. CBP officers may inspect your luggage.

Bag Recheck (if applicable)

If connecting to Peoria, place your checked bags on the recheck belt after clearing customs. Proceed to your connecting gate with carry-on items.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for duration of stay (6-month validity recommended). E-passport required for ESTA travelers.

ESTA Approval or Visa

Print confirmation of ESTA approval or have visa stamp in passport. CBP can access electronically but having printed copy is recommended.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from the United States within authorized period.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservations, host address, or itinerary showing where you'll stay in Peoria.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or evidence you can support yourself during your stay.

Supporting Documents

May include employment letter, invitation letter, travel itinerary, or proof of ties to home country.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Answer questions honestly and concisely. Don't volunteer unnecessary information but be prepared to provide details if asked.

Have all documents organized and easily accessible. Keep them in a folder in your carry-on, not in checked luggage.

Dress neatly and professionally. First impressions matter during immigration inspection.

Allow ample connection time (minimum 2-3 hours) if flying through a major hub to Peoria, as immigration and customs can take time during peak periods.

Download the Mobile Passport Control app before travel for faster processing at airports that support it.

Be patient and courteous with CBP officers. They have authority to refuse entry or conduct additional screening.

Keep your phone charged and have important contact information accessible, including your Peoria accommodation details.

Declare everything required by law. Penalties for false declarations can include fines, prosecution, and future entry bans.

Customs & Duty-Free

U.S. Customs and Border Protection enforces customs regulations for all travelers entering the United States, including those visiting Peoria. You must declare all items acquired abroad, including gifts, and items you intend to sell or use in business. Agricultural products are heavily restricted to protect U.S. agriculture from pests and diseases.

Alcohol

1 liter of alcoholic beverages duty-free

Must be 21 years or older. Additional quantities subject to duty and federal taxes. State laws may impose additional restrictions.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes (1 carton) OR 100 cigars (non-Cuban) OR 2 kg (4.4 lbs) of smoking tobacco

Must be 18 years or older (21 in some states). Cuban cigars allowed for personal use within limits. Additional quantities subject to duty.

Currency

No limit on amount, but must declare if carrying $10,000 USD or more

Includes cash, travelers checks, money orders, and negotiable instruments. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties. Use FinCEN Form 105 for declaration.

Gifts/Goods

$800 USD worth of goods duty-free for returning U.S. residents; $100 for international visitors

Applies to goods for personal use or gifts. Items must accompany you. Family members can combine allowances if traveling together. Goods exceeding allowance subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - federal offense with severe penalties
Absinthe (with thujone) - banned substance
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and plants - agricultural risk (some exceptions with permits)
Meat and poultry products - disease risk (most countries banned, limited exceptions)
Soil or items with soil - agricultural contamination risk
Counterfeit goods - trademark and copyright violations
Certain endangered species products - CITES violations (ivory, tortoiseshell, etc.)
Unpasteurized cheese and dairy - food safety regulations
Haitian animal hide drums - anthrax risk
Bushmeat from Africa - disease risk

Restricted Items

Firearms and ammunition - requires ATF permit and prior declaration, strict regulations apply
Prescription medications - must be in original packaging with prescription label, limited to personal use quantities
Cultural artifacts and antiquities - may require export permits from country of origin
Pets and animals - requires health certificates, vaccinations, and advance arrangements with CDC and USDA
Certain fish and wildlife - may require permits under CITES or other regulations
Alcoholic beverages over duty-free limit - subject to federal tax and duty
Monetary instruments over $10,000 - must be declared on FinCEN 105 form

Health Requirements

The United States has specific health requirements for international travelers. While routine vaccinations are generally not required for entry, certain situations may require proof of immunization. Travelers should also be aware of health insurance considerations, as medical care in the U.S. is expensive.

Required Vaccinations

COVID-19 vaccination may be required for certain visa categories (check current CDC requirements as policies evolve)
Yellow fever vaccination if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries (certificate required)
Immigrants and certain visa applicants must show proof of specific vaccinations per CDC guidelines (mumps, measles, rubella, polio, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, etc.)

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, influenza, etc.) should be up to date
Hepatitis A and B for longer stays
COVID-19 vaccination and boosters as recommended by CDC
Seasonal influenza vaccine during flu season (October-March)

Health Insurance

Health insurance is strongly recommended as medical costs in the United States are very high. Emergency room visits can cost thousands of dollars, and hospital stays can exceed $10,000+ per day. Visitors should obtain travel health insurance that covers medical expenses in the U.S., including emergency evacuation. Check if your home country insurance provides coverage in the U.S. or purchase a visitor health insurance policy. U.S. tourist visas do not provide health coverage.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 requirements change frequently. Check the CDC website (cdc.gov/coronavirus) and U.S. embassy in your country for current requirements regarding testing, vaccination, and quarantine. Some requirements may vary based on vaccination status and country of origin. Airlines may also have specific requirements. Check requirements within 72 hours of departure as policies can change rapidly.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

U.S. Embassy/Consulate

Find the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country for visa applications and citizen services

Visit usembassy.gov to locate your nearest U.S. diplomatic mission. For visa information: travel.state.gov

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Official information on entry requirements, customs, and immigration

Website: cbp.gov | Phone: (877) 227-5511 | For ESTA applications: esta.cbp.dhs.gov

Emergency Services (Peoria)

Police, Fire, Medical Emergency

Dial 911 for all emergencies. This number works throughout the United States including Peoria. For non-emergencies, Peoria Police: (309) 673-4521

Your Country's Embassy in Washington D.C.

Contact your home country's embassy for assistance while in the U.S.

Keep your embassy contact information accessible. They can assist with lost passports, legal issues, and emergencies.

Peoria International Airport

General Downing Peoria International Airport (PIA)

Phone: (309) 697-8272 | Website: flypia.com | Address: 6100 W Everett McKinley Dirksen Pkwy, Peoria, IL 61607

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children of all ages, including infants, must have their own passport and travel authorization (ESTA or visa). Minors traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s), including contact information and authorizing the child to travel. This helps avoid delays and questions about parental custody. If traveling with only one parent, carry the child's birth certificate and consent letter. Divorced or separated parents should carry custody documents. CBP officers may question children separately to ensure they are not being trafficked.

Traveling with Pets

Dogs entering the U.S. must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days before entry) and appear healthy upon arrival. CDC has specific requirements for dogs from high-risk rabies countries. Cats are not required to have rabies vaccination certificates but must appear healthy. Birds require import permits and quarantine. Other animals have varying requirements. Contact CDC (cdc.gov/importation) and USDA-APHIS (aphis.usda.gov) for specific requirements. Airlines have additional pet transport policies. Consider pet-friendly accommodations in Peoria. Service animals have different regulations.

Extended Stays or Change of Status

Tourist visas and ESTA do not permit extension beyond 90 days (ESTA) or initial authorized period (B-1/B-2 visa). ESTA cannot be extended under any circumstances. B-1/B-2 visa holders may apply for extension through USCIS Form I-539 before current status expires, but approval is not guaranteed. For longer stays, consider applying for appropriate visa category (student F-1, work H-1B, etc.) before traveling. Changing status while in the U.S. is possible but complex - consult immigration attorney. Overstaying can result in visa cancellation, deportation, and bans on future entry. Working without authorization is illegal and grounds for removal.

Business Travelers

ESTA or B-1 visa allows business activities such as meetings, conferences, negotiations, and consultations. Cannot perform productive work for a U.S. employer or receive U.S.-source income (except expense reimbursement). Bring invitation letters, conference registration, or meeting schedules. If performing services requiring work visa (H-1B, L-1, etc.), must obtain appropriate authorization before entry. Business travelers may be scrutinized more carefully - be prepared to explain nature of business and demonstrate ties to home country.

Students and Exchange Visitors

Students must have F-1 or M-1 visa and Form I-20 from SEVIS-approved school. Exchange visitors need J-1 visa and Form DS-2019 from sponsor. Cannot enter on ESTA or tourist visa with intent to study. Must enter no more than 30 days before program start date on I-20/DS-2019. Present visa, I-20/DS-2019, proof of SEVIS fee payment, financial documents, and acceptance letter at port of entry. Students can study in Peoria at institutions like Bradley University or Illinois Central College.

Transit Through United States

If transiting through a U.S. airport to reach another country, you still need ESTA or visa (no airside transit visa exists). Brief transit qualifies for ESTA if eligible. Ensure sufficient connection time to clear immigration and customs, even if not leaving airport. If connection requires overnight stay or leaving airport, standard entry requirements apply. Some nationalities may transit under C-1 visa category.