What does immigration look for at the airport?

Officials will review your required passenger travel documents (passport, visa, green card, disembarkation card (provided by a flight attendant during flight), immunization documentation, letters of confirmation or support, etc.)



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Prepare for Likely Questions From U.S. CBP Officials
  • Why are you visiting the United States? ...
  • Where will you be staying? ...
  • Who will you be visiting? ...
  • How long will you be staying in the U.S.? If you're coming in with an immigrant visa (have been approved for U.S. permanent residence), you won't likely be asked this.


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The government tends to detain immigrants due to a belief that they pose a public safety threat. Some of the most common reasons why the government detains immigrants include: The individual committed a crime. The individual arrived at the border without formally applying for asylum or without a visa.

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Apply for TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck is one of a few government-run trusted traveler programs, designed to allow members to use expedited security lanes at more than 200 U.S. airports. With TSA PreCheck, you can speed through security without removing your shoes, laptops, belts or jacket.

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There are signs that will indicate you have been flagged for additional screenings: You were not able to print a boarding pass from an airline ticketing kiosk or from the internet. You were denied or delayed boarding. A ticket agent “called someone” before handing you a boarding pass.

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Here are some steps you should take if you are detained at the airport by immigration:
  1. Ask to speak with an immigration attorney and do not sign anything until you speak to an attorney. ...
  2. Do not take a voluntary departure without speaking to an attorney. ...
  3. You have the right to contact an attorney or your family.


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The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process which includes collecting information such as your name, current address, and other personal information to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint.

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Looking, Acting, or Behaving In a Suspicious Manner Some of the most mundane things that can get you yanked out of your line are: Yawning too much. Coughing and clearing your throat frequently. Looking around in a suspicious manner (darting eyes, focusing on odd spots)

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17 Reasons You Could Get Flagged by TSA
  1. What does it mean to get “flagged” by TSA?
  2. Tripping the system during a background check.
  3. Showing signs of nervousness.
  4. Traveling with too much cash money.
  5. Bringing large containers of powder.
  6. Medications.
  7. Bringing odd or complex objects.
  8. Trying to transport drugs.


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It might not be scanning because: you haven't aligned the NFC reader on your phone with your passport; or. your passport chip might not be working.

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