✈️ USA EVUS & Customs Declaration: What to Prepare
🌍 EVUS Official Enrollment (evus.gov)
EVUS is only valid if you enroll on the official U.S. government site. It applies to holders of a PRC passport with a 10-year B1/B2, B1 or B2 visa, and each enrollment is valid for two years or until your passport or visa expires — whichever comes first. As of October 16, 2026 the enrollment fee is US$31.75, paid online by card. Most enrollments are approved within minutes, but allow up to 72 hours. Enroll again whenever you get a new passport or visa, or if your name changes.
📋 ESTA vs EVUS at a glance
ESTA (Visa Waiver Program) required for 42 countries. Valid for 2 years. Apply online at least 72 hours before departure. EVUS required for Chinese passport holders with 10-year B1/B2 visas. Apply only on the official CBP site esta.cbp.dhs.gov — current government fee is US$40.62 per authorization (as of October 16, 2026), and third-party sites charging far more are not official.
Last verified: 2026-10-11
| ESTA | EVUS | |
|---|---|---|
| Who needs it | Travelers from the 42 Visa Waiver Program countries | Travelers entering the U.S. on a foreign passport with a 10-year B1/B2 visa (in practice: PRC passport holders) |
| Government fee | About US$40.62 per authorization | US$31.75 per enrollment (from Oct 16, 2026) |
| Validity | 2 years, multiple visits | 2 years or until visa/passport expires |
| Where to apply | esta.cbp.dhs.gov (official CBP site) | evus.gov (official CBP site) |
🛂 Customs Clearance
Be prepared to declare all food, plants, and large cash amounts (> $10,000). Have your hotel address and return flight details ready.
📱 USA eSIM
USA has excellent LTE/5G coverage in cities. eSIM available before departure. Verizon and AT&T have best tourist coverage.
🚗 Uber / Lyft
Uber and Lyft widely available in all major cities and airports. Often cheaper than taxis with transparent pricing.
💡 Quick Tips
- Apply ESTA at least 3 days before departure
- Tipping expected: 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per bag at hotels
- Sales tax not included in displayed prices
⚡ Pro Tips
- Many airports have free WiFi - activate eSIM upon landing
- Tap-to-pay widely accepted - no need for cash in cities
📋 Summary
USA entry procedures are digital and efficient. Tipping culture is important to understand. Download Uber and get eSIM before arrival for seamless travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EVUS and who needs it?
EVUS (Electronic Visa Update System) is an online enrollment for travellers entering the United States on a foreign (non-U.S.) passport with a 10-year B1/B2 visitor visa. In practice it currently applies to holders of a Chinese passport — always check the current list on evus.gov. Without a valid EVUS enrollment the visa cannot be used to enter the United States.
How often do I renew EVUS?
Enrollment is generally valid for two years, or until your passport or visa expires — renew whichever comes first.
I'm from a Visa Waiver country — do I need EVUS?
No. Visa Waiver Program nationals travel on ESTA instead. EVUS currently applies to Chinese passport holders with 10-year B1/B2 visas.
Where do I enroll for EVUS and is it free?
Only on the official U.S. government site evus.gov. It is not free — the enrollment fee is US$31.75 as of October 16, 2026 (it used to be free before late 2025). Third-party sites are not affiliated with the U.S. government and often charge much more.
