I will be entering the US in October to work for about a year and half as a visiting researcher. I will be accompanied by my partner and his two children.
I am very scared on what to expect at the border because of all the stories I hear about detentions, refusals, etc.
My concerns are:
- Do they ask everyone to unlock their phones and download EVERYTHING in there for later analysis?
- Related to point 1., refusing to unlock and give access will make you suspect and they refuse entry?
- Do they also ask you to unlock your laptop? I have stuff encrypted there as I often have to process sensitive patient data for a project I am working.
- Do they do a complete biometric data collection of you and the kids?
Also, how do we conduct ourselves at the border entry to avoid getting absolutely shafted?
P.S.: I am not in a position to call off the trip. Visa is ready and tickets are brought.
Bring a dumb phone or a brand new wiped phone.
Clear out your laptop or bring a brand new laptop.
America no longer has “rules of law” and police/immigration have shown time and time again that they run on emotion. Your questions all depend on a lot of factors. Which airport. Which agent. What color are you.
Even American citizens get “surprise” checks, and demand they unlock their phones. It’s fucking stupid.