CBP Officer

CBP Officer

CBPGuy

7 Years Experience

SouthWest, US

Male, 25

I am a U. S. Customs and Border Protection Officer on the southwest border between Mexico and the United States. I know the ins and outs of the job as seen on TV/News and things intentionally hidden from the media! There's more to this job than "Anything to declare?" I dont know all but I'll do my best to answer any questions you have! All answers are my opinion, and my opinion only!

SubscribeGet emails when new questions are answered. Ask Me Anything!Show Bio +

Share:

Ask me anything!

Submit Your Question

220 Questions

Share:

Last Answer on April 22, 2019

Best Rated

Thanks for answering my previous Question, in continuation with previous question, how do i prove that i will return to India? I have bought house recently in India and family is not traveling with me does that help?

Asked by Abhishek almost 10 years ago

Basically, you need to show that your whole life is in India. The deed to your home, or tax statements help. A letter from your employer stating that you are located in India and you will be working for your employer on your L1 visa in the United States until XXX date.

I meant I have a student visa from Australia & I was in the US with a valid B2 multiple entry good for 10 years. I stayed for 5mo&5wks. It has been 2 mos since I left the US. I want to visit again before my class starts in August here in Thailand.

Asked by Travelbug about 10 years ago

You will probably be asked several questions as to why you were in the United States for such an extended period of time. It's not normal for a person to be on vacation for 6 months in another country. Be prepared to provide proof of economic solvency to justify your entry into the United States again.

I have been traveling to the US (VWP) for the past 5 years about 3-4 times a year for 3-4 weeks at a time (American GF). Last time I was "advised" to get a B2 Visa. My Esta is still good and I am never staying for that long. What should I do?

Asked by Bergis81 over 9 years ago

It is always safer to have a physical B1/B2 visa over the Visa Waiver Program. You have slightly more protections (Not much). From what you stated, it doesn't sound like you spend much time in the US over the average person, however every officer is different.

It's really up to you if you want to get a Visa or not. I would just advise to bring proof of solvency every time you enter to make the officer feel more comfortable about allowing you into the country.

After being refered to secondary almost every other time I go back to US, it really annoys me that CBP officers go through my phone. Can I refuse to provide password to it? What are the reprecussions of that?

Asked by tpbacon over 9 years ago

If you are an alien applying for admission to the United States, you can be removed from the United States if you cannot overcome the presumption of being inadmissible. This presumption is based on the Officer's discretion.

Under Border Search Authority, and for national security purposes, Officer's are legally allowed to search your phone (any electronic device) or use computer systems that can replicate the information contained within your phone. You are allowed to verbally deny them, but legally they can then formally seize it and return it to you at a later date if they determined it be necessary.

Also, I am currently on active duty with about a year and a half left on contract. When would you recommend that I start the application process? Thank you.

Asked by Mando over 9 years ago

I recommend you submit your application today! It took me a little over 2 years to get hired. This time frame is very common for all law enforcement positions within the federal government. The process is a very slow and arduous one. For example, you will apply today, in 3 months they will call you to take the test, in 6 months they'll have you do the fitness test, in a year they'll have you take your polygraph, in another 6 to 8 months the second fitness test etc.

Hi, traveling in June from the UK I've applied for esta it got approved, I have 2 convictions for battery 6 years ago both the same offence, I ticked no to the serious crimes question is this right? Likely to encounter any problems?

Asked by Gavin about 9 years ago

Its hard to give you a firm answer without seeing your actual record. Generally, simple battery is not considered a CIMT. Aggravated battery is a higher possibility. My suggest to you would be to apply for a visa and mention your arrest to the consular officer, who will then either approve or deny a visa. When you use ESTA, you wont know if your entry will be denied until after your plane already lands in the United States. By this point in time, if we decide to deny you entry, your vacation would have been ruined and all your money just went down the drain. If you apply for an actual visa at the embassy, you will receive a definitive answer prior to making your travel arrangements.

I have different friends in US. On my visa application, I have the address of my one friend. However, he is going to another state for family reasons. Now, I want to visit my other friends too. But my friend told me that you have to arrive at the given address (according to the visa application). If you do not, CBP might send you back. Should I change my address where I am going to stay? If yes, how can I do this? I have used his address to receive my medical certifications and exam cards. Now, I have my board certification exam. My examination card and acceptance letter has his address. I am not arriving at this address. Is it going to be a problem?
If it is not a problem, should I tell the CBP officer that my friend is not here? I am going to stay with other friends.

Asked by Kaka210 almost 10 years ago

You are not restricted to the address you listed on your visa application. When you apply for admission when entering the United States, you will be asked to fill out a blue customs declaration form (6059B). On this form, list the address you will be staying at.

If you have a special work visa, you would need to contact your employer to update the information.