Summer Travel and Your Rights at the Border

As summer approaches, many of us are looking forward to traveling. However, given the current state of affairs in the United States, there are concerns about the ease of re-entry into the country. Will international visitors face difficulties when coming to the U. S. Recent news stories have highlighted various travelers who have encountered issues when entering the country. A French scientist was denied entry after border agents discovered critical messages about President Trump on his phone. An Irish woman with a criminal record was detained for 17 days. Even a U. S. citizen, popular Twitch streamer Hasan Piker, was questioned by border agents upon his return to the country.

These incidents have caused many to question their own upcoming travels to the U. S. For those with green cards, visas, or tourist visas, there is concern about how they will be received at the border. To gain insight into these concerns, we spoke with immigration lawyers about the rights of travelers and what they should know as they embark on their summer journeys.

Who is most at risk?

While the media has covered these incidents extensively, immigration lawyers note that there is often more to the story than what is reported. According to Jennifer Behm, a partner at Berardi Immigration Law, the public does not always have access to the specific details of an individual’s situation. She advises clients to follow the proper procedures and not to worry, as the chances of being denied entry are low. Michael Wildes, an immigration lawyer at Wildes and Weinberg, says that U. S. citizens are not at risk, but they may face questioning, as was the case with Hasan Piker. Naturalized citizens should also not have any problems as long as they were truthful during the naturalization process.

Green card holders are generally safe, as only an immigration judge can revoke their status. However, those with past criminal records or extended periods spent abroad may face challenges. It is also important for green card holders to have a reentry permit if they plan to spend an extended amount of time outside the U. S.

Visa holders should be cautious, especially if their actions do not align with the terms of their visa. For example, a student who works at a music festival on a student visa could have their visa revoked. Tourists are at the highest risk for being denied entry, as it is at the discretion of the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers.

Should I allow extra time for travel?

For U. S. citizens, there is no need to modify travel plans. However, those with vulnerable family members may want to take extra precautions. Those who are more at risk, such as those with misdemeanors or lower residency status, may want to avoid leaving the country for now. If they do choose to travel, they should be prepared for potential delays and extra screening.

What should I do if I am at a higher risk and have to travel?

If you fall into a higher-risk category and have to travel