Traveling Abroad?

In the current political climate, many South Asian Americans are thinking twice before planning international travel—especially when it comes to re-entering the United States. Concerns around increased scrutiny at the border, digital privacy, and evolving immigration enforcement policies have made even routine trips feel uncertain.

If you’re planning to travel—or are currently abroad and preparing to return—here are key steps you can take to safeguard yourself, your data, and your peace of mind.

 

✈️ Think Twice Before You Go

Before leaving the U.S., consider the current environment:

• Be cautious if your immigration status is pending: Those with pending visa renewals, adjustment of status, or asylum applications should speak to an immigration attorney before traveling. Resources like the Immigrant Legal Resource Center can help.
   

• Expect delays and scrutiny: Even U.S. citizens and green card holders of South Asian descent have reported increased questioning upon re-entry, especially about travel history, contacts abroad, or political beliefs (NPR).
   

 

🛂 What to Expect at the U.S. Border

Border agents have broad authority to question travelers, search luggage, and inspect electronic devices—even for U.S. citizens.

Here’s what you should know:

• Green card holders have the right to re-enter, but avoid prolonged travel that might raise questions about abandonment of residency (USCIS: Travel as a Permanent Resident).
   

• Visa holders may face more scrutiny and could be denied entry based on perceived inconsistencies or risks.
   

• U.S. citizens cannot be denied re-entry, but can still be questioned and have their devices searched (ACLU: Know Your Rights at the Border).
   

 

🔐 Phone and Device Security

Electronic devices are a common point of inspection. Here’s how to protect your privacy:

• Backup and wipe: Before your return, consider backing up your phone and temporarily wiping sensitive content. EFF’s Digital Privacy at the Border Guide is a must-read.
   

• Use strong passwords and disable fingerprint/face ID to prevent easy access (EFF’s Tips).
   

• Limit social media visibility: Review your public posts and consider logging out of accounts.
   

• Use encrypted apps like Signal or WhatsApp for communication and avoid saving sensitive conversations locally.
   

• Turn off devices before landing: This can prevent automatic syncing or location updates. Here’s a guide on how to lock your phone.
   

 

📑 Documentary Precautions

• Carry proof of legal status: If you’re not a citizen, keep a copy of your green card, visa, or I-797 approval notice.
   

• Keep a hard copy of key documents in a separate bag: Passport, travel itinerary, emergency contacts, and your attorney’s phone number if applicable.
   

• Have digital backups stored securely in the cloud or on encrypted drives.
   

 

🧭 Know Your Rights

• You can ask to speak with an attorney, though this right is more limited at the border (ACLU).
   

• You have the right to remain silent in response to questions about political beliefs or religious practices.
   

• You are not required to provide device passwords, though refusal may delay your entry or result in confiscation (especially for non-citizens) (EFF).
   

 

🧳 Final Tips

• Travel light when it comes to data—less is better.
   

• Let someone in the U.S. know your return plans and check in once you’ve landed.
   

• Stay calm and courteous at the border, even if you're being questioned. Document the experience afterward if you feel your rights were violated.
   

For any questions or comments, please reach us at tsbmarcomm@gmail.com.