Information Regarding Foreign National Travel

Key Risks for Travelers

Minimizing Risk at U.S. Ports of Entry

Fly through airports with pre-clearance/pre-flight inspection (PFI)
- PFI allows travelers to undergo U.S. customs and immigration inspections before boarding their flight to the U.S., reducing the risk of entry refusal, detention, or expedited removal upon arrival.
- If denied entry at a PFI airport, you will remain in the foreign country (e.g., Canada) rather than be held at a detention facility or deported from the U.S.
Prepare for secondary inspection
- Be prepared for additional questioning or secondary inspection upon arrival.
- Answer questions asked truthfully. Do not volunteer unnecessary information.
- If you are refused entry, prepare a summary for the event after your release: document officer names, questions asked, and anything you were told as a reason for the refusal.

Recommendations for Travelers

Plan your travel carefully: Whenever possible, fly through airports with PFI or land ports of entry at the U.S./Mexico or U.S./Canada border.
Travel light: Limit the number of electronic devices you bring and consider your personal data, messages and photos prior to travel.
Be prepared for inspection: Have hard copies of all required documents.
Remember your rights: Be cooperative but cautions during CBP questioning.
Consult an immigration attorney: If you have any questions about travel plans, please consider contacting an immigration attorney for guidance.

Page last updated 9:50 AM, April 14, 2025