How Long Can Customs Detain You?

Detainees should generally not be held for longer than 72 hours in CBP hold rooms or holding faciliƟes.

What happens when you are detained by customs?

CBP officers will sometimes ask detainees at the airport to sign documents. ... After the CBP officer has completed his questioning, he will either admit you into the United States, place you in removal proceedings, or deny your entry and send you on a return flight to another country.

Can customs hold you?

Agents should not ask questions unrelated to verifying citizenship, nor can they hold you for an extended time without cause. Even though you always have the right to remain silent, if you don't answer questions to establish your citizenship, officials may detain you longer in order to verify your immigration status.