When you arrive at a U.S. port of entry (air, land or sea port), you must present yourself for immigration and customs inspection by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer.
By presenting your immigration documents, you are requesting entry in a specific immigration status – for instance, F-1 status for students, J-1 for exchange visitors, or a work status such as H-1B, O-1 or TN for many faculty.
Presenting the correct documentation does not guarantee your admission to the U.S. as CBP officers have broad discretion to assess your eligibility for admission, including:
- What is the reason for your U.S. visit?
If you are requesting admission to the U.S. as a student make certain to present your F-1 or J-1 visa and have a printed out version of your Form I-20 or DS-2019 (not electronic).
Carry your immigration documents in your hand luggage. You will pass immigration inspection before retrieving your checked bags. Be sure you have your Form I-20 or DS-2019 and other support documents with you. - Are you admissible to the U.S.? Do you have any history of immigration law violations that would bar you from entry?
If you have faced any past arrests or indictments, including times when a court may have “dismissed” charges, these may lead to additional scrutiny by CBP offices and could lead to denial of entry or revocation of your visa. This includes offenses involving marijuana or prohibited substances. - Are you deemed to be a danger to the U.S. or U.S. interests? Do you have a history of travel to “high-risk” world areas? Do you have any suspected ties to extremist (including deemed “terrorist”) organizations?
In evaluating national security considerations, CBP may review social media accounts, your public-facing digital footprint, and data on your private electronic devices, including your laptop or cell phone.
Review: Border Search of Electronic Devices at Ports of Entry
Review: Enforcement at the Airport
Review: Electronic Device Searches at U.S. Ports of Entry: What You Need to Know Are you abiding by guidelines and restrictions related to imports including agriculture, banned substances, and currency?
Information about prohibited and restricted items, agricultural restrictions, and the transport of marijuana, can be found on the CPB website. International travelers traveling with currency in excess of $10,000 must file a currency report with customs.Review: Clearing Customs
In the event that CBP requires additional information, you may be sent to Secondary Inspection for further questioning or review of your documents and belongings.
In the event that you are found inadmissible, or if you are arrested or detailed, you may request to contact a lawyer for legal counsel.
Review: Know Your Rights: What to do if I am Arrested or Detained by Immigration