The September 11 attacks in 2001 were a wake-up call to airport security not just in the United States but all over the world. After the 9/11 tragedy, all nations tightened their airport security and set clear-cut rules especially when it comes to people traveling from another country. People were advised to follow these rules when boarding a plane.
To many international travelers, customs is just another minor inconvenience at a country's gateway or just another stop in an airport. However, first-time travelers are usually surprised to experience such a strict implementation of customs laws and policies before and after their flight. Some learn their lesson the hard way. You may be asked to throw away the sandwiches your mom packed for you or ordered to just place your SLR camera in your baggage instead of carrying it with you. Liquids are banned. Medications are regulated. Bulky electronic devices are prohibited.
If it is your first time travelling to another country, you have to know the standard rules that most international airports follow. Many international airports are separated into two channels: Red and Green.
Green Channel
If you have nothing to declare, you will go through the Green Channel. Having nothing to declare means you are carrying items within the limits permitted by customs. It also means that you are not carrying any prohibited items. Passengers going through this channel are only subject to spot checks.
However, if you go through the Green Channel and are found to have goods beyond the customs limits or carrying prohibited items, you may be prosecuted simply for making a false declaration, having gone through this channel.
Red Channel
If you have goods to declare, meaning you are carrying items beyond the limits set by customs or carrying banned items, you should go through the Red Channel. You will go through several inspections and this requires much more time.
Airports within the European Union also have a Blue Channel. Because the EU is a customs union, they have special policies regarding travelers between EU countries. They do not need to pay customs duties provided that the items they are carrying are only for personal use and will not be sold. These travelers must go through the Blue Channel.
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