Guidance for Travelers in the Current Immigration Climate

Given the uncertainty surrounding US immigration, fueled by reports of increased scrutiny and in some cases detention, international travel should be undertaken with caution. While most stories portrayed in the media are extreme cases, increased scrutiny of travelers is happening. Certain foreign nationals may also be more vulnerable due to their country of origin, countries of recent travel, prior criminal citations, arrests, or immigration violations. We recommend avoiding non-essential trips, if possible, but if you must travel:

• Ensure you have proper documentation for entry into the US.
• Upon return, confirm your I-94 record shows the correct class of admission and expiration date, and request correction if necessary. Staying beyond your expiration date without filing an extension or change of status is a violation of immigration law and could result in a 3 or 10-year bar from returning to the US.
• Inform your attorney/paralegal of your return so that we can request updated documents for our records.
• If you are traveling via land border, request and pay for an I-94 entry record from CBP when entering the US.

We also encourage you to review guidance from the ACLU for helpful information on going through customs inspection and your rights at US airports and ports of entry.

As a reminder, all foreign nationals should comply with registration requirements (as applicable) and address updates. The law also requires that you always carry valid proof of status (Foreign Passport, I-94, EAD, Green Card, etc.).

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact your ILG attorney or reach our firm at .