U.S. immigration checks are typically brief and focus on key questions, so most people are approved without issue. However, minor mistakes can sometimes lead to entry denial. Here are some common pitfalls:
1) Prohibited Items: Ensure that you are not carrying any prohibited items in your luggage.
2) Cash Declaration: If you are carrying $10,000 or more in cash, you must declare it to Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
3) ESTA Restrictions: ESTA allows for a stay of up to 90 days for tourism without a visa. However, working on ESTA is illegal and can result in a 5-year ban from entering the U.S.
4) Secondary Inspection: If the officer suspects further investigation is needed, you may be subject to a Secondary Inspection. Remain calm, cooperate fully, and you should be approved if there are no significant issues.
5) One-Way Ticket: If you have only a one-way ticket and cannot provide a satisfactory reason for not having a return ticket, you may be denied entry.
6) Travel to Terrorist-Sensitive Countries: If you have visited countries designated as state sponsors of terrorism (Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Yemen) for business, you cannot use ESTA. Instead, you must apply for a B1/B2 visa to enter the U.S.