CBP

When planning to enter the United States, whether as a visitor, worker, student, or new permanent resident, your first point of contact at the border will likely be with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). As one of the largest federal law enforcement agencies under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), CBP plays a critical role in securing the nation's borders while facilitating legal travel and immigration.

CBP is responsible for regulating and facilitating international travel and trade. It monitors and manages the entry of people, goods, and cargo into the United States. Whether you're arriving at an airport, land border, or seaport, CBP officers are there to ensure compliance with U.S. laws, including immigration regulations.

Why is CBP Important for Immigrants?

CBP is crucial in the immigration process because it is responsible for:

• Processing Entry: CBP officers review your visa, passport, and other entry documents upon arrival in the United States. They have the authority to permit or deny entry based on their assessment.

• Inspection and Verification: During your entry, CBP officers will verify your identity, inspect your travel documents, and may ask questions about your visit or purpose in the United States to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration laws.

• Issuing Entry Records: CBP issues the I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, which serves as proof of lawful entry and is often required for future immigration benefits like green card applications, extensions, or changes of status.

• Managing Customs Declarations: If you are bringing goods or personal items into the country, CBP ensures that customs regulations are followed, and any necessary declarations are made.

What to Expect During the CBP Inspection Process

When you arrive at a U.S. port of entry, here’s what typically happens during the CBP inspection process:

1. Present Your Documents: You will need to present your passport, visa, and any supporting documents (such as your green card if you are a lawful permanent resident) to the CBP officer.

2. Answer Questions: The CBP officer may ask you questions regarding your purpose of visit, length of stay, intended address, and other details to confirm your admissibility to the United States.

3. Biometric Screening: CBP may take your fingerprints and photograph for biometric identification purposes.

4. Secondary Inspection (If Necessary): In some cases, you may be directed to secondary inspection for a more detailed review. This could involve additional questions, verification of documents, or a search of your belongings. Secondary inspection is routine for certain categories of visitors, such as those entering with immigrant visas or employment-based visas.

5. Entry Decision: After the inspection, the CBP officer will make a decision on whether to permit your entry into the United States. If approved, the officer will stamp your passport and issue an I-94 record (for non-immigrants) detailing your entry date and permitted duration of stay.

Key Points to Remember When Interacting with CBP

• Honesty is Critical: Always provide truthful and accurate information to CBP officers. Providing false information or hiding details can result in denial of entry.

• Have Your Documents Ready: Be sure to have all your relevant documents accessible, including your passport, visa, I-94 record (if applicable), and supporting documents like employment offers or proof of residency.

• Know Your Rights: While CBP has broad authority, you have rights as an applicant for admission. If you are detained for secondary inspection, you have the right to request to speak to your embassy or legal representative.

CBP and Your Immigration Status

CBP's role doesn't end at the border. The I-94 record issued by CBP is a critical document that determines how long you are allowed to stay in the U.S. for a specific visit. It is also required when applying for extensions, changes of status, or adjusting your status to a green card holder.

• Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders): If you are a green card holder, CBP will inspect your green card upon each re-entry to the U.S. and ensure you meet the requirements to maintain your permanent residency status.

• Non-Immigrant Visa Holders: Your I-94 record shows the expiration date of your authorized stay in the U.S. Staying beyond this date can have serious immigration consequences.

Get Ready with DIY My Green Card

Navigating the U.S. border and understanding CBP's role can be daunting, especially for first-time visitors or new immigrants. At DIY My Green Card, we help you prepare for your entry into the U.S. by providing guidance on necessary documents, what to expect during inspections, and how to maintain your status while in the country.

Ready to begin your immigration journey? Explore our services to learn how we can support you every step of the way, from securing your visa to navigating the CBP inspection process.