Tips On Dealing With US Border Control Agents

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Tips On Dealing With US Border Control Agents

29 January 2015
 Categories: , Blog


For many immigrants, the first step to being allowed to legally immigrate to the United States is being cleared by customs agents at the airport. It's important that those who are immigrating to the country do not underestimate the stringency of this process and do not arrive in the United States missing important documentation.

The following are four important tips on getting past US customs agents when arriving into the United States at the airport:

Express yourself clearly and politely

When it comes to dealing with border protection agents, being upfront and honest is extremely important. Customs and border protection agents are trained to look into inaccuracies and suspicious activity. This means that you need to be 100 percent honest when answering any questions about your intentions in coming to the United States. 

While you're being interviewed by a border protection agent, you will not be able to resort to the assistance of an attorney. You will have to handle all questions by yourself, so you need to be aware of any responses that could potentially raise the suspicions of a border protection agent. 

Bring all relevant documentation

Before you leave for the United States, you should brainstorm about any documentation that could possibly be necessary to demonstrate your right to be allowed into the country. You should look beyond your visa. You should also have a letter from your employer, proof that you have no criminal convictions, a copy of your return ticket, and any other relevant documentation with you when you arrive at customs.

Have a contact phone number for your host and/or sponsor

There are several different contact numbers that you should have with you when you arrive in the United States. If you are being sponsored by an employer, you should have a contact number for that employer with you.

You should also have a contact number for the establishment or individual that will be hosting you during your stay. Your host should be informed about your reasons for traveling to the United States to back up your story if border protection agents feel it is necessary to contact your host. 

Voluntarily withdraw your application if necessary

If border protection agents express suspicion regarding your entry into the United States, it's probably best to voluntarily withdraw your application for entry into the country. Those who do not voluntarily withdraw their applications could be subject to expedited removal, and this could make it less likely that they will be allowed into the country in the future. 

Although you cannot have an attorney present with you during this process, it is a good idea to consult with one, such as Tesoroni & Leroy, before traveling. They can help with the preparation process.