If you’re not a U.S. citizen and you're thinking about international travel, pause and read this first. With increased scrutiny at U.S. borders and expanded powers for Customs and Border Protection (CBP), green card holders and visa holders are facing more obstacles than ever when trying to return to the United States.
I'm Jim Hacking, immigration lawyer with offices in St. Louis, San Diego, Washington D.C., and soon, Chicago. In this post, we’ll break down the real risks of international travel for immigrants in 2025—and how to protect yourself if you absolutely must go.
Is It Safe to Travel Abroad if You’re Not a U.S. Citizen?
If you hold a green card or visa, our strong advice is not to leave the United States right now unless it’s absolutely necessary. Since the last election, CBP officers have been granted expanded discretion—and they’re using it.
Immigrants returning from abroad are being detained, questioned, and in some cases, denied reentry. That includes individuals with lawful permanent resident (LPR) status and valid visas.
CBP Has Expanded Authority at the Border
Customs and Border Protection officers have broad discretion when it comes to allowing travelers back into the U.S.—even those with valid immigration status. And here’s what surprises many people:
- You don’t have a right to an attorney at the border.
- You can be questioned, searched, and even denied entry.
- CBP decisions are difficult to challenge after the fact.
Even lawful permanent residents have fewer rights at the border than they do inside the U.S.
Green Card Holders Are Being Targeted
CBP is flagging returning green card holders for:
- Extended time spent outside the U.S.
- Past criminal history (even if disclosed and resolved)
- Political speech or social media activity
- Travel to certain regions
In some cases, LPRs are being pressured to surrender their green cards or placed in removal proceedings despite previously approved cases.
Visa Holders Are at High Risk for Denial of Entry
We’ve seen multiple cases where individuals with valid TN, F-1, or B-1/B-2 visas are:
- Denied reentry
- Placed into expedited removal
- Given five-year bans from reentering the U.S.
Even those who have lived in the U.S. for years may find themselves barred from returning—often due to something found on their phone or concerns raised in secondary inspection.
Your Phone Could Be Used Against You
CBP has the legal authority to inspect your digital devices, including your phone, laptop, or tablet. And depending on your immigration status, your protections vary:
- U.S. citizens can refuse (though phones may be seized)
- Green card holders have fewer protections
- Visa holders have almost none
We’ve seen people removed or banned because of:
- WhatsApp messages
- Political content
- Group chat activity
- Religious or activist affiliation
Before you travel:
- Back up and wipe your phone
- Consider using a clean device
- Delete unnecessary apps and private data
What Happens If You’re Denied Entry?
Even if the risk seems small, the consequences are massive. Ask yourself:
- What happens to your job, education, or family if you can’t return?
- Are you prepared to be held in immigration detention?
- Can you risk losing your visa or green card?
The stakes are high—and often irreversible.
If You Must Travel: Tips to Protect Yourself
If international travel is unavoidable:
- Travel light, and carry as little data as possible
- Use a separate phone or wipe your existing one
- Be polite and answer questions briefly and honestly
- Avoid oversharing—yes/no answers are best
- Never lie, but don’t volunteer extra information
You only get one shot at a border inspection—so be prepared.
Need Help? Let’s Talk.
If you have questions about travel or your immigration status, we’re here to help.
- Join our Immigration Answer Show for live Q&A
- Text "SHOW" to 314-473-3300 to get live alerts
- Join our Immigrant Home Facebook group
- Follow us on TikTok: @immigrationhacking
- Call us at 314-961-8200 or email [email protected]
Don’t take unnecessary risks with your future. If you’re thinking about traveling outside the U.S., think twice—and reach out if you’re unsure.
