Core Rights
- You must be allowed in. As a US citizen, you have an unequivocal right to enter the US
- Border officers can question you to verify identity and citizenship
- Bring your passport
What You Don’t Have to Answer
You can politely refuse to answer questions about:
- Political beliefs or associations
- Personal life, religion
- People you know or recently met
- Activities unrelated to proving identity
What to say if pressed: “I am declining to answer questions, except those about my identity and citizenship.”
You cannot be denied entry for refusing these questions, though you may face secondary screening.
Device & Search Rules
- ✅ Officers can search your bags and belongings
- ❌ You don’t have to unlock devices or give passwords
- ❌ You cannot be denied entry for refusing to unlock your phone/laptop
- 📝 If seized, ask for a receipt (can take weeks to return)
Protective measures:
- Use numeric passcode (not biometric) only
- Power off devices before crossing
- Consider a “travel phone” with minimal data
- Back up important data before travel
- Have paper & pen to note officer names/badge numbers
If Arrested or Suspected of Crime
Immediately state: “I am invoking my right to remain silent. I want to speak with a lawyer.”
- Repeat as needed
- You have the same rights as in domestic law enforcement situations
- Stop answering questions
Important Notes
⚠️ It is a federal crime to lie to a federal officer. Even small misstatements can result in charges.
If officers persist with inappropriate questions → request to call your lawyer or speak to a supervisor
Resources: justiceonline.org | protestlaw.org