In recent months, travel to the United States has become more challenging due to heightened immigration enforcement and increased scrutiny at ports of entry. Whether you are traveling on a visa, as a permanent resident, or under another status, it is important to be well-prepared and understand your rights.
Below are key travel tips based on guidance from the Alliance of Business Immigration Lawyers to help ensure a smoother entry into the United States.
- Verify That Your Documents Are Valid
- Confirm that your passport, visa, green card, or other travel documents are current and not expired.
- Avoid traveling if you have a pending renewal application for your immigration status or documentation.
- Consult with an immigration attorney before traveling if you have questions about your eligibility to reenter the U.S.
- Consider Delaying Travel if You Are from a Country on the Proposed “Red List”
- The U.S. government has proposed restrictions affecting travelers from specific countries.
- Nationals from Afghanistan, Bhutan, Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen may face increased scrutiny or entry restrictions.
- If you are from one of these countries, consider postponing travel unless absolutely necessary.
- Understand Your Rights and Limitations at the U.S. Border
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have broad discretion when determining admissibility.
- Officers may inspect your electronic devices and request that you unlock your phone, provide passwords, or share access to laptops or digital cameras.
- U.S. citizens and green card holders may decline to answer questions beyond those required to confirm identity and status, but this could lead to delays or seizure of devices.
- Visa holders generally do not have the same rights and may be denied entry for refusing to comply.
- If Your Devices Are Seized, Request Documentation
- Ask the officer for their name, badge number, and agency.
- Request a receipt for any device that is confiscated.
- If no receipt is provided at the time, follow up with the relevant agency.
- Keep Key Contact Information Readily Available
- Carry your immigration attorney’s contact information.
- Share your travel details with a trusted friend or family member in the United States.
- If you are detained or referred to secondary inspection, and are permitted to use your phone, send a message asking your contact to notify your attorney.
- Be Aware of the Risk of Detention
- Previously, travelers denied entry were often placed on the next outbound flight.
- Now, some individuals are being detained for days or longer.
- Always travel with the possibility of delay or detention in mind.
- Check Travel Advisories from Your Home Country
- Review any travel advisories issued by your home government before your trip.
- If there are concerns about U.S. immigration policy or safety, consider postponing travel.
- Request an Interpreter if Needed During Secondary Inspection
- If you are referred to secondary inspection and need language assistance, request an interpreter.
- Interviews are usually recorded or transcribed, so it is important that you understand the questions and can answer clearly.
Need Help Preparing for International Travel?
Traveling to the United States now involves more complexity and potential risks. Our firm is committed to helping clients prepare for travel, understand their rights, and address border-related concerns. If you are planning to travel internationally and have questions about your immigration status, documentation, or possible risks, we are here to help.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced immigration attorneys.
