What to Expect at the Border or Airport

Upon arrival in the United States using an immigrant or non-immigrant visa, you will meet first with a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. The role of these officers is to ensure the safety and security of the United States by aggressively screening for people attempting to enter the country illegally or abusing their visas.

CBP officers are skeptical by necessity, and you should expect to spend a significant amount of time as your name and documents are checked against various databases and your reasons for entering the country are verified.

Questions You May Be Asked

The CBP officer will interview you in an effort to ensure that your explanation for your presence in the country matches those covered by your visa. You should be prepared to answer the following questions:

• Why are you entering the United States?
• Where will you be staying while you are in the country?
• How long do you intend to remain in the US?
• How much money are you bringing into the country with you?
• How frequently do you visit the country?
• Have you previously visited the United States, and did you remain in the country for a period longer than that allowed to you?

If you can clearly and easily answer all of these questions in a manner consistent with your visa, the process of entering the country will be greatly expedited.

Contact Us

Although you may not have a lawyer present during your screening, an experienced Orange County immigration attorney from Garg & Associates, P.C., can provide you with the information and preparation necessary to ensure that your entry into the United States goes quickly and smoothly. Contact us today at 949-540-6704 for more information.