A Practical Guide for U.S. Citizens & Green Card Holders Facing Questioning at Airports or Ports of Entry

International travel should be an exciting experience—time to visit loved ones, explore new places, or return home. But for many travelers, re-entering the United States can be stressful, especially if you are questioned by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or encounter other law enforcement agencies at the airport or land border.

Even U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs or “green card” holders) may face enhanced screening depending on factors such as their country of birth, nationality, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, or political beliefs. Understanding your rights before you travel helps reduce anxiety and protects you during unexpected encounters.

Below is a clear, practical guide on "dos and don'ts" if you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and are held for questioning at a port of entry.

1. Answer Questions Honestly—But Briefly

CBP officers may ask questions about your trip, your immigration status, or what items you’re bringing into the country.

• Tell the truth.

• Answer briefly and directly.

• Do not volunteer extra details to appear helpful.

You must make truthful declarations about currency, agricultural products, goods, or restricted items. However, you are not required to answer questions about your First Amendment–protected activities, including:

• Religious affiliations

• Political beliefs

• Social group memberships

If asked such questions, you may politely decline.

2. Understand That Your Property May Be Searched—But You Don’t Have to Unlock Your Devices

CBP has broad authority to inspect luggage and personal belongings—even without suspicion.

You must provide your property for inspection, but you are not required to:

• Disclose device passwords

• Unlock your phone, laptop, or tablet

• Provide access to social media accounts

CBP may seize digital devices temporarily and examine them, typically returning them within 60 days.

Best Practice for Travel

If your devices contain sensitive personal or work-related information:

• Travel with minimal electronics.

• Use cloud-based applications so your device stores no personal data.

• Consider using a basic prepaid “burner” phone and forward your number.

  
  

3. If You Experience Discrimination, Assert Your Rights and Request an Attorney

If you believe you are being targeted or questioned unfairly:

• Insist calmly that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

• Ask to speak with an attorney.

• Be polite but firm.

CBP often tells travelers they do not have the right to counsel during inspection. If you are denied access, remain silent beyond confirming your identity. As a citizen or LPR, you are not legally required to continue answering questions.

Threats of detention are often intimidation tactics and may not be legally enforceable absent suspicion of a crime.

4. If You Are a U.S. Citizen—You Must Be Allowed to Enter

Citizens have an absolute right to re-enter their country.

If you presented a valid U.S. passport:

• You do not have to answer CBP’s questions.

• Refusing to answer routine questions may cause delays but cannot prevent your entry.

• You may calmly state that you have identified yourself, made required declarations, and request immediate release.

Citizenship provides the strongest legal protection at the border.

5. If You Are a Green Card Holder—Never Sign Form I-407

CBP officers sometimes pressure LPRs to sign Form I-407, which voluntarily relinquishes permanent resident status. DO NOT SIGN THIS FORM. Signing it means you are giving up your green card—often irreversibly.

You have the legal right to:

• Maintain LPR status

• Request a hearing before an Immigration Judge

• Contest any allegation that you abandoned your residence

Intimidation is common. Stay firm.

6. If You Are Detained for a Long Time, Contact Your Attorney and Congressperson

If delays become unreasonable:

• Have a family member contact your immigration attorney.

• Ask them to notify your U.S. Senator or Representative.

Members of Congress take constituent detentions seriously, and congressional inquiries can speed up release.

Remain calm and avoid escalating the situation.

7. Keep Detailed Records of the Encounter

Document everything:

• Officer names and badge numbers

• The agency involved (CBP, ICE, local police, etc.)

• Flight information

• Locations where you were taken

• Questions asked and your responses

These notes are invaluable for later legal action or congressional assistance.

Final Thoughts: Knowledge is Power

Airports and ports of entry can be intimidating, especially with the increased government scrutiny or discriminatory profiling that exist xurrently in the United States. But knowing your rights and how to assert them empowers you to navigate these encounters with confidence and calmness. If you believe your rights were violated or if you anticipate having problems with CBP, our immigration attorneys are here to help. Contact our office and schedule a consultation today!