I heard from some University colleagues that they were turned down at the US customs control in Miami airport when traveling from Greece last weekend. We work at a university in Athens and they were traveling to attend a conference there on a B1/B2. They were asked about their political affiliation and even thought they had proof of their event tickets and hotel stay, their entry was rejected. I am set to participate in another event in January in New York ,and I would like to avoid this issue. I also have a B1/B2 visa. What can I do?
Answers
Bernard P Wolfsdorf
EB-5 Immigration attorneysScreening does occur by US customs – something must have come up during inspection.
Renata Duarte
EB-5 Immigration attorneysHaving a valid B-1/B-2 visa is necessary but not sufficient. To minimize your risk, build a strong, logical case for your visit, keep personal data minimal, and stay composed.
If questioned about politics or asked to unlock your device, you can decline but doing so may invite further scrutiny, so proceed with caution.
You do not need to volunteer information at the border, answer only what you have been asked.
Lynne Feldman
EB-5 Immigration attorneysNo guarantee you won’t’ run into an especially negative officer. Best is to avoid certain airports and arrive during normal business hours.
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