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These "damage control" techniques can mean all the difference. First things first: Don't lie! Misrepresentations to a U.S. CBP ("Customs & Border Protection") officer will permanently appear on your "alien file" and can cause unanticipated ripple effects several years into the future. (For instance, if you have a child who was born in the U.S. and who therefore can technically petition for you to immigrate to the U.S. upon reaching 21 years of age, that application will be denied if you previously lied to CBP, and there is no "waiver" available in such circumstances. So you can torch your chances of later obtaining U.S. permanent residence by lying now.) Also, it's worth knowing that U.S. CBP can see the Tourist Visa application that you submitted to the Embassy/Consulate in your home country. If you said in your application that you don't know anyone in the U.S., and then tell CBP that you plan on staying by a friend, you're going to be in for a real grilling in Secondary Inspection. Speaking of being in a pickle in Secondary Inspection, if at any time you feel that you're on the verge of being denied entry to the U.S. or placed in "expedited removal" proceedings (turned around and returned home within 48 hours), say "I would like to withdraw my application for admission to the U.S." Basically, you're asking the CBP officer to report that you changed your mind and no longer wish to pass through inspection and enter the U.S. That will have no repercussions for future visa applications or requests to enter the U.S. However, if you undergo Expedited Removal, you'll be prohibited from returning to the U.S. for five years. If you're concerned about your entry interview on an upcoming trip to the U.S., speak to a U.S. immigration lawyer ahead of time. #USimmigration #USvisa #Visa #USCIS #CBP #DHS #Immigration #ImmigrationLawyer #B2 #TouristVisa #Tourist #LPR #I551 #GreenCard #PermanentResidence
