port of entry

American  

noun

1. port.

---

port of entry British  

noun

1. law an airport, harbour, etc, where customs officials are stationed to supervise the entry into and exit from a country of persons and merchandise

---

Etymology

Origin of port of entry

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

Migrants can start that process once they enter the country, either at a port of entry or within one year of entry, regardless of immigration status.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 23, 2026

In the interview, Cuellar credited his political staying power to understanding his sprawling district, which includes Laredo, the busiest U.S. port of entry for trade.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 19, 2025

On Jan. 4, 2025, according to the Department of Homeland Security, Chávez reentered the United States from Tijuana into San Diego via the San Ysidro port of entry.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 19, 2025

He had applied for asylum the right way — by scheduling an appointment and presenting himself at a port of entry — and yet was languishing behind bars.

From Salon • Jul. 16, 2025

Starting in 1846, the Chicago harbor was designated by an act of the United States Congress as an official port of entry.

From "A Few Red Drops: The Chicago Race Riot of 1919" by Claire Hartfield