Applying For Us Immigration: Airport Arrival Essentials

Applying for immigration at a US airport can be a challenging process. Upon arrival, you will go through immigration inspection, where your electronic I-94 entry record will be created. It is important to have all the required documents, including a valid passport, visa, and immigration documents, readily available. You may also need to provide additional information such as proof of funds and your purpose of travel. Customs officers may ask questions about your immigration status and conduct luggage searches to ensure you are not bringing in restricted items. Knowing your rights and being prepared for the process can help ensure a smoother entry into the United States.

Have the correct documents

To enter the United States, you will need to present a range of documents to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. These officers are trained to be skeptical, and security is their first concern, so it is important to have all the correct documents ready.

Firstly, you will need a valid passport. This must be valid for at least six months into the future at the time of admission. You will also need a valid U.S. visa, unless you are a Canadian citizen. If you are a student, you will need an I-20 for F-1 status or a DS-2019 for J-1 status. F-1 students must print the I-20 form double-sided, and you cannot present an electronic copy on your phone. You will also need a printed I-901 Fee Receipt, also known as a Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee receipt. It is also advisable to have a copy of your admissions letter and proof of funds. This can include bank statements and scholarship/financial aid letters.

You will also need to fill out a CBP Declaration Form 6059B, which is provided during the flight. This form covers basic information about the traveller and what they are bringing into the country. It also includes questions on agricultural and wildlife products and whether the traveller has visited a farm prior to travelling to the U.S. If you are travelling with immediate family, you only need to complete one form for your whole family.

If you are travelling on an immigrant visa, you may need to hand over a sealed, unopened envelope containing your immigration file. If you have received one, it will be noted on your visa with the words "IV Docs in CCD".

Prepare for luggage search

When travelling to the USA, it's important to be prepared for a luggage search at the airport. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

Know What to Expect

Understand that your luggage may be opened and searched by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This is done to ensure that you haven't brought any restricted items into the country. You may also be asked questions about your luggage and its contents. Being cooperative and respectful throughout this process is essential.

Declare All Items

Ensure that you have properly declared all items that are legally required to be declared. This will help streamline the process and avoid any potential issues.

Keep Important Documents Handy

Carry all essential documents with you and do not pack them in your checked luggage. These documents include your passport, visa, immigration documents, customs forms, and any other relevant paperwork. Keep them organised and easily accessible to present to the customs officials.

Understand Restricted Items

Familiarise yourself with the list of restricted items that are not allowed to be brought into the USA. This includes prohibited items such as certain foods, plants, animals, drugs, and dangerous goods. By knowing what not to pack, you can avoid issues during the luggage search.

Pack Smart

Organise your luggage thoughtfully. Keep similar items together and use packing cubes or compartments to maximise space and make it easier for customs officials to inspect your belongings. Declare any unusual items and be prepared to answer questions about them.

Be Prepared for Delays

Luggage searches can sometimes take time, especially if customs officials find something that requires further inspection. Be patient and cooperative during the process. If you have a connecting flight or a tight schedule, communicate this to the officials, and they may be able to expedite the process.

Remember that the primary goal of a luggage search is to ensure the safety and security of the country. By following these tips and staying cooperative, you can make the process smoother for both yourself and the customs officials.

Expect medical screening

Medical screening is a mandatory component of the immigration process for those seeking residence in the US through organised immigration and refugee programs. This process is undertaken for legislative, regulatory, and administrative reasons. The CDC's Division of Global Migration Health (DGMH) provides technical instructions for all physicians performing medical screening examinations for immigrants and refugees. The purpose of the medical examination is to identify applicants with health-related grounds for inadmissibility.

Conditions for Inadmissibility

There are four medical conditions, referred to as Class A conditions, that may cause an applicant to be inadmissible on health-related grounds:

• Having a communicable disease of public health significance
• Failure to present documentation of vaccination against specified vaccine-preventable diseases
• Having (or having had) a physical or mental disorder with associated harmful behaviour
• Drug abuse or addiction

Medical Examination Process

The medical examination process involves a detailed medical history and physical examination for all individuals. Additionally, applicants who are 15 years or older undergo routine chest radiography and serologic testing for HIV and syphilis.

Vaccination Requirements

Immigration medical screening includes verification of vaccination against several diseases. Required vaccines include:

• Haemophilus influenzae Type B
• Meningococcal disease
• Pneumococcal disease

Waivers for Medical Conditions

In some cases, applicants with a health-related condition may apply for a medical waiver. The CDC reviews the waiver forms and medical reports submitted by applicants. If approved, certain conditions, such as tuberculosis, may require treatment before the individual is allowed to transit for immigration.

Pre-departure Medical Interventions

There is a growing focus on preventative medical interventions before individuals depart for the US. This includes population-based treatment for malaria and intestinal parasites for refugee populations at high risk for specific infections.

Additional Health Screening Considerations

Immigration medical screening may not cover all health conditions, and some pre-existing medical conditions may not be detected or reported. Therefore, additional health screening may be necessary to address specific health concerns of diverse foreign-born populations. This includes screening for risk behaviours, dietary and exercise habits, sexual health practices, mental and psychosocial health, environmental risks, and occupational exposures.

Prepare for questions

Purpose of Visit

Be prepared to clearly state your reason for visiting the US. This could be tourism, business, or education. Your answer must match your visa type. For example, if you have a B-2 visitor visa, do not say that you are coming to find a job.

Duration of Stay

Know your travel dates and when you plan to leave the US. Even if your visa says "multiple entry" and is valid for ten years, you will usually not be allowed to remain for more than six months on a tourist visa.

Place of Accommodation

Provide the address of where you will be staying. If you have no previously arranged places to stay, the CBP officer might question whether you should be allowed into the country.

People You're Visiting

The officer will likely ask who you will be visiting, especially if you are a tourist. They want to see that you have clear and legal plans.

Finances

Be prepared to answer questions about your finances and how you will pay for your trip. The officer will want to know that you will be able to cover your expenses while in the US.

Previous Visits

If you have visited the US before, be prepared to answer questions about the length of your stay and the reason for your visit. If you stayed longer than you planned or were permitted to, be ready to explain why and provide evidence to corroborate your answer.

Frequency of Travel

The CBP officer may ask how often you travel to the US. They are looking for people who are using a tourist visa or the right to enter without a visa as a way of living permanently or working in the US.

Return Ticket

Have proof that you have a return or onward ticket.

Work

If you are travelling for work, be ready to explain your occupation and the nature of your business in the US. Carry documentation such as a letter from your employer or an invitation from the US business you are visiting.

Items to Declare

Make sure you have declared all items that legally must be declared. Your luggage may be searched, so ensure you are not carrying illegal or questionable items.

Know your rights

When entering the US, it is important to know your rights and to cooperate fully with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) by presenting all relevant travel documentation and answering questions clearly and respectfully. Here are some key points to know about your rights:

Your Rights as a US Citizen

As a US citizen, you have the right to enter the US, and you only need to answer questions establishing your identity and citizenship. You do not have to answer other questions, but refusing to do so may result in a delay or further inspection. You have the right to remain silent and do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with police, immigration agents, or other officials. You also have the right to refuse a search of your person or belongings without your consent or probable cause. If you are selected for a strip search, it must be supported by "reasonable suspicion" and must be done in a private area.

Your Rights as a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR)

As an LPR, you have the right to enter the US and only need to answer questions establishing your identity and permanent residency. Refusal to answer other questions will likely cause a delay, but officials cannot deny you entry into the US for failing to answer these questions. LPR status can only be revoked by an immigration judge. You are also required to provide your fingerprints upon entry into the US.

Your Rights as a Non-Citizen Visa Holder or Visitor

As a non-citizen visa holder or visitor, you may be denied entry into the US if you refuse to answer officers' questions. You are also required to carry your visa and other immigration documents with you at all times and present them when requested by an immigration agent. You have the right to remain silent and refuse to answer questions about your immigration status, but doing so may result in further questioning or a delay. You are also required to provide your fingerprints upon entry into the US.

Your Rights Regarding Electronic Devices

US citizens cannot be denied entry for refusing to provide passwords or unlock their devices. However, refusal may lead to a delay, additional questioning, or device confiscation for further inspection. For LPRs, their green cards cannot be revoked without a hearing before an immigration judge. Visa holders and tourists from visa waiver countries, on the other hand, may risk being denied entry if they refuse to provide passwords or unlock their devices.

Your Rights Regarding Religious Head Coverings

You have the right to wear a religious head covering during security screening. If an alarm is triggered, officers may request additional screening, including a pat-down of your head covering or removal of it. You have the right to request that this be conducted by a person of your gender in a private area. If you prefer to pat down your head covering yourself, you will be supervised by a TSA officer, and your hands may be tested for chemical residue afterward.

Frequently asked questions