Navigating US Border Entry: Essential Pre-Travel Advice

Is there a clear increase in foreign travelers experiencing difficulties at US ports of entry? At this time, there is no definitive data confirming a trend.  What we can say with confidence is this: there is a broader global trend towards more assertive border controls and enhanced screening measures. Heightened scrutiny at US borders aligns with this shift.

Further complicating the issue is the challenge of separating fact from perception in an environment shaped by headlines, viral social media narratives, and incomplete information. While there have been high-profile cases involving detentions or denied entry, the specific facts and decision-making rationale in these cases are often confidential, making it difficult to draw broad conclusions from isolated incidents. Several countries have updated their advisories to warn US-bound travelers of strictly enforced immigration policies. For example, some advisories urge travelers to expect scrutiny when crossing the border and warn that refusing to comply involves risks including device seizure, travel delays, or the denial of entry for non-US citizens. Travelers should make note that the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP)  provides more specific information on electronic device searches at ports of entry on their website.

In the current context, going to a trusted source for location intelligence and pre-travel preparation is an essential first step before any trip.

Prior to travel, ensure that all travel documents including visa, ESTA, passport, invitation letters and itineraries are valid, accurate, and consistent. Travelers should be briefed on the purpose of travel and be prepared to clearly articulate it to US Customs and Border Protection officials. Confirm alignment of travelers’ documentation and stated activities (e.g., business vs. tourism). Coordinate with internal mobility, HR, or travel compliance teams to validate travel requirements and to help ensure documentation supports the intended trip purpose. It’s a good idea to maintain a record of point-of-contact information for internal stakeholders who can support the traveler in the event of a delay or detention.

Be aware of your country’s specific advisories for certain groups, for example LGBTQ+ travelers entering the US, and brief individuals prior to departure.

Organizations should ensure travelers are aware of their rights and obligations during secondary screening or questioning. In the event of detention or delay, advise travelers to remain calm, professional, and cooperative.  

Travelers should carry physical copies of essential documents, including passport, visa, company letter confirming business purpose, travel itinerary and hotel accommodation. When traveling for business it's also important to carry an official business card that identifies your employer. 

It is essential that your visa matches the purpose of your trip - a common reason for detention would be a discrepancy in the type of visa and stated purpose of your trip. If you apply for a tourist visa, you must not intend to do anything that can be considered work including meetings, volunteering, jobs in exchange for accommodation, etc. Some travelers have also been denied entry because they planned to visit a fiancé, but did not have the proper visa. Travelers in this case should ensure they have the proper documentation regarding their relationship with a US citizen. 

Consider establishing welfare checks with trusted points of contact and clear escalation protocols, including informing your embassy, should you not check in.

Understand that CBP may request to examine both your personal and business devices. All travelers, including US citizens, are obligated to provide passwords when requested. Failure to do so may result in confiscation of the device, detention, or refusal of entry for non-US citizens. Knowing this, consider limiting the number of devices you travel with and avoid publishing contentious or sensitive statements on social media. Protect personal and confidential corporate information by traveling with clean devices free of sensitive data. 

If detained:

• Remain calm, professional, and cooperative.
• Understand you may be searched, including luggage, belongings, and personal devices.
• Inform your organizational point of contact as soon as possible and request recommended next steps.
• Request a translator if you do not speak English or are not comfortable answering questions in English.
• Keep documentation of any incident during the border inspection for future reference. 

Travel risk management providers, like Crisis24, can offer 24/7 support thanks to global operations centers, communication coordination, and escalation procedures to internal risk and travel managers. The best way to ensure a safe and successful trip is to have a pre-travel risk management plan in place, tailored to the specific risks and needs of your travelers. If you need more support, reach out to the experts at Crisis24.