WHAT TO EXPECT ON ARRIVAL
An ESTA doesn’t assure entry into america – Customs and Border Safety (CBP) officers on the port of entry make the ultimate name.
CBP officers are skilled to evaluate whether or not travellers intend to overstay, and it’s regular for them to ask about your ties to your own home nation. Widespread questions embrace the aim of your go to, supposed keep period, who you recognize within the US and what your job is again residence.
The questions might really feel invasive, however the very best plan of action is to reply honestly, in as few phrases as attainable. CBP officers will not be identified for having the very best sense of humour, no matter administration, they usually have extensive discretion.
A confrontational or dismissive perspective can escalate a routine interview right into a extra severe subject. If English will not be your first language, you may request for a translator to make sure your responses will not be misunderstood.
One frequent pitfall is utilizing the phrases “work” and “enterprise” interchangeably. Whereas it might appear fairly pure to say “I’m right here for work” when on a enterprise journey, doing so might elevate crimson flags.
“Enterprise” refers to short-term actions that don’t contain gainful US employment, resembling attending conferences or conferences, negotiating contracts, assembly purchasers or suppliers, and exploring funding alternatives.
“Work”, however, refers to performing companies for a US firm or consumer. Digital nomads should be particularly cautious, as conducting distant work within the US, even for a non-US based mostly consumer, could also be handled as unauthorised employment and land you in bother.
If a CBP officer has motive to suspect you aren’t being truthful, you might be flagged for secondary screening. If this occurs, stay calm. Secondary screening doesn’t robotically imply your entry might be rejected, although you’ll have to reply extra questions or present extra supporting documentation.
