Passport control at the U.S. airport
The interview at the airport is a step you should take seriously. It determines whether you’ll be allowed to stay in America or not. Here are a few tips to make sure you don’t run into any problems!
✈️ Don’t panic. The chance of being sent back home is very small. The worst that can happen is being sent for an additional interview and baggage check.
✈️ On the plane, you’ll be given a small customs declaration form. Fill it out and hand it over at passport control.
✈️ Don’t get in the wrong line!! I actually did this once 😂
For visitors – for tourists (usually longer, so don’t miss it).
For U.S. citizens and permanent residents – for American citizens.
✈️ Answer the officer’s questions truthfully and confidently. You need to convince them that you don’t have immigration intentions.
✈️ Be ready for simple questions.
They’re usually like:
- What is the purpose of your trip?
- How long will you stay?
- What address will you be living at?
- Are you traveling alone?
- Who is meeting you here?
And that’s basically all you need to know! :)
Try to imagine yourself in this situation — would you be confident enough to pass the interview at passport control? Maybe one day it will be your turn to experience it as an exchange student!