Ready for arrival:U.S. entry insights Entering the United States in 2025 requires extra preparation dueto stricter immigration policy enforcement and heightened borderscrutiny. Travelers should be prepared for more thorough This guide offers key tips to support a smoother entryexperience and help travelers navigate potential Entry reminders for U.S. and foreign travelers All travelers entering the United States should be prepared for enhanced screening procedures. U.S. citizensand lawful permanent residents will encounter facial recognition technology at international airports, as part Foreign visitors should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay.It’sessential to obtain the correct U.S. visa or ESTA and verify that all personal information is accurate. FollowingExecutive Order 14168, visa applicants must select either male or female on their application; non-binarytravelers are encouraged to consult their local U.S. embassy for guidance prior to applying. Additionally, All travelers, including U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and foreign visitors, should be aware that U.S.CBP officers have broad authority to search electronic devices at ports of entry. There have been cases whereforeign visitors were denied entry based on content found on personal devices, including private messages.Travelers are encouraged to be mindful of what may be visible during a basic search, as certain content can Speaking with CBP Officers Travelers should be prepared to answer questions from U.S. CBP officers about their travel purpose, visa status,and eligibility for entry. Under current policies, these questions may be more detailed than in the past.Respondtruthfully, clearly, and limit your answers to what is asked; there’s no need to offer additional information. Secondary inspection While uncommon, travelers may occasionally be referred to secondary inspection at a U.S. port of entry. Thisadditional screening falls within the discretion of U.S. CBP. It may include more detailed questioning, a reviewof travel documents and history, and an inspection of belongings. If selected, the traveler will be escorted to a Before traveling, prepare a list of key contacts and save it in a format accessible offline in case your device isunavailable. Include your employer’s Human Resources department, Travel Risk team, and third-party assistanceprovider, as well as emergency contacts like family or trusted individuals. Make note of your country’s consulate Below is a checklist summarizing key steps. Use this as a printable or digital-friendly reference to make sure PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST: ARRIVAL CHECKLIST: Travel documents:Valid passport (with at least six months validity remaining) andappropriate U.S. visa. Photocopies of your passport ID page and visa (stored separately Phones off & stowed:Before you exit the plane, power offyour phone and other devices. Stow them away unless asked Itinerary & reservations:Printed flight itinerary reflecting confirmed return flight,U.S.address of stay, and contact information of host/employer. Hard copy of hotel Documents in hand:Approach the CBP booth with your passport,visa, and declaration form in hand. Be ready to also show your Emergency contact information:Prepare critical phone numbers: your country’sconsulate, your employer’s passport & visa service or immigration attorney, a familymember, and your employer’s emergency contact offline. Keep this in hand luggage Answer clearly:Respond to the officer’s questions with concise,honest answers. If you don’t understand something, politely askthem to repeat it. You can request an interpreter if needed. Biometric procedures:Be prepared for routine fingerprintingand photograph at the booth (standard for most visa holders).Follow the instructions (place fingers on the scanner and look Electronics preparation:Prepare your devices for inspection, review what may bevisible during a basic inspection and consider offloading content that may prompt Medications & personal items:Carry prescription medicine in original packaging with yourname, and bring a doctor’s note or prescription to avoid questions. (Also pack necessities Remain calm if delayed:If directed to secondary inspection,cooperate and remain calm. You may be asked to wait in aseating area. It’s normal to wait an hour or more for secondaryinspection during busy times. Do not use your phone while Know the rules:Confirm the latest U.S. travel guidance and policy updates. Forexample, verify there are no newly implemented travel bans or policies that could Are you looking for acustomized risk strategy? Contact usto learn more about our fully customized U.S. Entry Toolkit and how a Travel Security Program Assessment Lise LevesqueSenior Crisis Program Manager,Global Crisis Management, BCD Travel Christine ConnolleySenior Crisis Program Manager,Global Crisis Management, BCD Travel Jorge MesaSenior Director Travel Risk Managemen