What Companies and Travelers Need to Know About Navigating Entry to the U.S.

As of April 2025, anecdotal reports indicate that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers are applying increased scrutiny to foreign nationals entering the U.S., particularly during admissibility reviews and searches of electronic devices. This has spurred growing concern among international travelers about their risks of being denied entry, detained, or deported.

While such searches are not new, the CBP says they conduct them to “detect digital contraband, terrorism-related content, and information relevant to visitor admissibility.” What constitutes admissibility is at the discretion of the CBP agent conducting the inspection process. Amid claims that CBP is searching more electronic media due to administration changes, CBP Assistant Commissioner Hilton Beckham noted that “allegations that political beliefs trigger inspections or removals are baseless.”

Considering these developments, multiple countries—including Canada, Germany, France, Sweden, Ireland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom—have issued updated travel advisories for citizens entering the United States.

To help international travelers and the companies that support them, Global Guardian offers the following recommendations to reduce risk and promote safer, smoother cross-border movements.

For Employers: Steps to Reduce Travel Risk 

Organizations managing global travel programs must respond proactively to changing border enforcement norms. The following best practices can help protect employees and reduce exposure:

1. Strengthen Internal Travel Policies

• Establish clear escalation protocols for employees traveling to high-scrutiny destinations.
• Provide guidelines for how to report travel-related issues, whether they arise during business or personal trips.

2. Offer 'Know Your Rights' Training

• Educate employees about what they can expect at ports of entry.
• Clarify their right to request legal assistance or consular contact if detained, and how to formally make those requests.

Nan Park, Principal at USILaw, explains that these legal options are not widely understood:

“Most travelers don’t realize that being detained or challenged at the border doesn’t always mean immediate deportation. Green card holders and many legal residents have rights to request further review—such as a Deferred Inspection or appearing before an immigration judge. We’ve seen cases where people mistakenly believed denial of entry was their only option.”

3. Provide Business Travel Letters—Every Time

Ensure documentation is provided for both outbound and return travel. As Park points out: “Most companies don’t have protocols for letters when employees return to their resident country. That might need to change in today’s environment.”

A well-prepared letter should include:

• The purpose of the visit
• The duration of the trip
• Confirmation of employment status
• Company contact information for verification

4. Host Awareness Townhalls

• Share insights on border enforcement trends
• Discuss the risks of digital exposure—especially content on personal devices or social media
• How to maintain compliance with visa terms and travel restrictions

5. Provide Access to Third-Party Legal Support

• Make immigration experts accessible through a confidential, real-time support channel for travelers facing complications at the border

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For Travelers: How to Prepare for U.S. Entry

Whether you are a short-term business visitor, visa holder, or legal resident, preparation can go a long way in reducing complications at the border.

1. Know What a Visa Does—and Doesn’t Do

“A visa does not guarantee you entrance into the U.S.,” explains Elizabeth Esparza, VP of Client Risk Management at Global Guardian.

“It only allows you to travel to a port of entry and request to enter. The final decision is made by a U.S. official—and at that moment, you’re technically not yet inside the country. U.S. laws don’t fully apply until admission is granted.”

2. Practice Device Management

CBP has the authority to search phones, laptops, and tablets without a warrant.

“Law enforcement has expanded authority at ports of entry,” says Esparza. “Travelers should review their electronics—remove sensitive content, social media apps, controversial images, and anything that could be misinterpreted.”

You may also want to travel with clean devices. 

3. Have the Right Documents Ready

Upon arrival, have the following printed out or otherwise ready to review:

• Bring your passport, visa, and proof of legal residence
• Carry a business travel letter outlining your visit’s purpose and employer sponsorship
• Have emergency contacts and legal resources on standby

4. Communicate Your Movements

• Share your itinerary with your company and a trusted contact
• Text someone upon arriving and after being admitted
• Make sure they know what steps to take if they don’t hear from you

5. Know What to Do If You’re Detained or Questioned

Remain composed. Be respectful and clear in your answers. You can request an interpreter, legal representation, or to contact your embassy or consulate.

Common Misconceptions Clarified

• You are not defenseless if denied entry. Legal residents—including those on work visas—may request Deferred Inspection or an immigration hearing.
• Returning residents need documentation too. Failing to prepare for reentry can lead to avoidable delays.
• Travel advisories aren’t symbolic. They reflect real enforcement trends and should be reviewed before your journey.

Proactive Planning and Support Is Key

Staying informed and prepared is the best defense against unexpected travel disruptions. With proactive planning and support, both companies and travelers can navigate today’s evolving U.S. entry environment with greater confidence and security.

Note: This document has been produced for general informational purposes on behalf of Global Guardian clients. The information contained herein is subject to rapid and unpredictable change by local governments. Global Guardian is not a law firm and this document does not constitute legal advice. For these reasons, Global Guardian does not warrant that the information is current, complete, or reliable as a substitute for consultation with a licensed immigration attorney.

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The Global Guardian team is standing by to support your security requirements. To learn more about our travel risk management security services, complete the form below or call us at + 1 (703) 566-9463