Background

In general, any foreign national who seeks entry into the United States temporarily will have to first obtain the appropriate nonimmigrant U.S. Visa. Nationals of certain countries are permitted to enter the United States for short durations, without a U.S. visa. This article is intended for nonimmigrant travelers, requiring a U.S. visa to enter the United States.

U.S. Visa – Does not Guarantee Entry into the United States

A U.S. visa is placed on the foreign traveler’s passport. Holding a valid U.S. visa, permits the traveler to board a flight / vessel and present her/himself at a U.S. port-of-entry (airport or seaport) or at a land border crossing post and seek permission to enter the United States. The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) inspector determines if the foreign national can be permitted to enter into the United States and if yes, the duration for which s/he can be permitted to lawfully remain in the U.S. The CBP official can subject the foreign national to a secondary inspection where another officer can review / inspect / examine all information in the possession of the traveler including personal eMails, wallets, laptops and other documents to determine if the traveler is presenting all facts and information accurately. If any discriminating evidence is found, s/he may be permitted to withdraw the application to enter the United States and return to one’s home country or initiate other appropriate legal action / proceedings.

Conclusion

Foreign nationals should present accurate and honest information at the time of applying for a U.S. visa and at the port-of-entry. It is important for travelers to understand that the visa does not entitle one to enter the United States and be prepared to provide clear response to officials at port-of-entry to ensure one is not turned back.