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Whether you’re a US citizen, a green card holder, a visa holder, or a refugee, you’ll go through inspection by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers each time you enter the United States. This process applies at all points of entry — airports, land borders, and seaports — and includes a short interview that can vary depending on your status.

As a US immigration lawyer in New York, we often hear from travelers who feel anxious about this step, so we’ve decided to put together this guide. Let’s walk through the most common questions CBP officers ask and how you can prepare for a smooth inspection.

Why does CBP ask questions at ports of entry?

CBP interviews every traveler to verify their identity and immigration status, and to ensure that they are entering legally. Officers are also trained to spot red flags that may indicate fraud and potential security risks.

Being honest and clear can help move you along the process quickly and reduce your chances of being sent to a secondary inspection.

Questions travelers should expect

For all travelers

Regardless of your status, CBP officers may ask:

• What’s the purpose of your visit?
• Are you traveling alone or with others?
• Have you traveled to other countries recently?
• Where do you live?
• How long do you plan to stay?
• Who will you be visiting?
• Where will you be staying?
• Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a crime?
• Are you carrying food, plants, or animal products?
• Do you have anything to declare?

Be ready to give straightforward answers. If you’re carrying anything that requires declaration, such as alcohol, tobacco, large sums of money, or agricultural products, disclose it clearly.

For tourist and business visitors (B-1/B-2)

Travelers with visitor visas need to show that their trip is short-term (temporary) and that they don’t intend to stay permanently. CBP might ask:

Have you visited the US before?

• What do you plan to do during your stay?
• How often do you travel to the US?
• Do you have a return ticket?
• How are you funding your trip?
• What’s your occupation in your home country?
• Do you intend to seek work or study while in the US?

Note that trying to work or study on a B-1/B-2 visa violates US immigration rules.

For green card holders

CBP officers may ask additional questions to confirm that you haven’t abandoned your US residency:

• What was the purpose of your trip?
• How long have you been outside the US?
• Have you worked abroad?
• Do you have your green card with you?
• Where is your primary residence?

Long absences without documentation or reentry permits could raise questions about your intent to maintain permanent residency.

For international students (F-1, M-1, J-1)

Students entering on academic visas need to show that their travel is consistent with their educational program. Expect questions like:

• Can you show your Form I-20?
• What’s your major or course of study?
• Which school are you attending?
• Do you have proof of your SEVIS fee payment?
• Are you returning to resume classes?

Tip: If you’re coming back after a school break, carry a class schedule or a letter from your institution confirming your enrollment.

For employment-based visa holders (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.)

Officers will want to confirm that your job matches the conditions of your visa:

• What are your job duties?
• Who is your US employer?
• Do you have your approved petition?
• Where will you be working?
• What’s the duration of your assignment?

Bring a copy of your petition approval and other employment documents, especially if it’s your first entry on a work visa.

For refugees and asylees

Travelers with refugee or asylee status should be ready to confirm their legal standing and explain their recent travel. Traveling back to your home country can raise red flags and may jeopardize your status, so be prepared to explain any such trips. CBP may ask:

• Do you have documentation proving your status?
• Where have you been traveling?
• Are you returning permanently?
• What is your current US address?

Tips to prepare for your arrival

Bring proper documentation, including your passport, visa, green card, or refugee travel document, plus any relevant supporting paperwork.

Answer clearly and truthfully, and remain calm and respectful. Officers are trained to identify inconsistent or evasive responses.

Need help with a visa or immigration issue?

If you’re looking for a US immigration lawyer in New York, contact Berd & Klauss, PLLC. We handle all aspects of immigration law, from work visas and green cards to deportation defense, waivers, and citizenship cases. Call us at 212-461-7152 or email info@berdklauss.com to set up a consultation.