Before You Depart:
If you’re planning to travel internationally, please notify the Company and your immigration attorney in advance. Sharing your intended travel dates and destination ensures you receive the latest immigration guidance based on your situation.
Required Travel Documents
- Green Card Holders: Travel with your valid Permanent Resident Card at all times.
- Visa Holders: Carry your passport and all applicable immigration documents, such as:
- I-797 approval notices
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Advance Parole document
- Form I-20 (for F-1 students)
- Backup Tip: Save secure digital copies (photos or PDFs) of your travel documents on your phone or cloud storage.
Social Media Caution
U.S. immigration agencies (DHS, ICE, USCIS, CBP) have the authority to monitor your public online activity and inspect your devices during border checks.
- Posts related to controversial topics—including political protests, international conflicts, or sensitive ideologies—can raise red flags.
- Travel Smart:
- Review your online presence before traveling.
- Limit sharing content that could be misinterpreted at the border.
- Consider tightening your social media privacy settings.
Participation in Protests
Under current federal guidance, foreign nationals associated with or present at protests labeled as supporting extremist or terrorist-linked movements may be subject to heightened scrutiny.
- Risk: Such participation could lead to visa revocation or denial of entry.
- Advice: Consult with your immigration attorney before attending any politically sensitive gatherings or demonstrations.
Electronics and Privacy at the Border
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers may inspect electronic devices, including laptops and phones, without a warrant.
- If You Refuse Access: You may be denied entry.
- Best Practices:
- Remove non-essential apps, files, or communications before departure.
- Use cloud storage for sensitive data and log out of accounts before travel.
- Disable fingerprint or facial recognition access temporarily.
Know Your Rights
If you are detained or selected for secondary inspection:
- You have the right to remain silent and request legal counsel.
- You can make a private phone call at your own expense.
- Do not sign any documents without understanding them fully or consulting an attorney.
Additional Travel Considerations
Detention for Minor Offenses (Laken Riley Act)
Recent legislation allows certain U.S. states to detain non-citizens—including visa holders—for minor offenses such as traffic violations, shoplifting, or DUI.
Travel Tip: Always carry a valid driver’s license, insurance, and registration. Avoid any activity that may result in law enforcement contact.
Gender Marker Policy Changes
The “X” gender designation has been removed from USCIS and State Department forms and U.S. passports.
If this affects you or your family’s application, contact your immigration attorney for confidential guidance.
International Layovers and Third-Country Travel
Some travelers transit through or visit third countries (e.g., Canada, Mexico, UAE, Turkey) as part of their international itinerary.
Important:
- You may need a visa for layovers, even if you are not exiting the airport.
- Each country has different entry rules for U.S. visa holders and green card holders.
- Some countries share information with the U.S. and may report any interactions or detentions.
Tip: Check visa requirements and any political/security advisories for your layover or connecting countries.
Visa Renewal and Reentry Challenges
Due to staffing shortages and political shifts, U.S. embassies abroad may experience delays in visa stamping or processing.
- If your visa is expiring soon, speak with your immigration counsel before leaving the U.S.
- Consider whether visa stamping abroad or reentry with Advance Parole is advisable in your situation.
- Some categories may be subject to additional security clearance, which can delay reentry.