International Safety and Security would like to remind students, faculty and staff about border entry procedures and the rights of U.S. citizens and non-citizens upon re-entry to the United States.
While U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) remains the authoritative source on border policy and procedures, we are providing this overview to help inform and prepare members of our academic community for international travel.
What to Expect at U.S. Ports of Entry
All individuals entering the United States, regardless of citizenship status, are subject to inspection by CBP officers. These inspections may include questions about travel, examination of personal belongings, and searches of electronic devices such as phones, laptops, and tablets. CBP has search authority at the border, which does not require them to obtain a warrant to search electronic devices or baggage at a port of entry.
It is important to understand your rights at the border. While U.S. citizens cannot be denied entry, refusal to cooperate with CBP procedures may result in significant delays and potential seizure of electronic devices. For non-U.S. citizens, refusal to comply may result in denial of entry.
For official CBP guidance, please refer to the following resources:
Preparing for International Travel
To help facilitate a smooth re-entry process, we encourage all travelers to take the following precautions:
Carry Proper Documentation: U.S. citizens should carry a valid U.S. passport. Non-U.S. citizens, at all times during travel and inside of the United States, should travel with documentation verifying identity and immigration status, such as a Permanent Resident Card (“Green Card”) or relevant visa paperwork. Visit the isss.illinois.edu website for international travel guidance for international students and scholars:
Anticipate Delays: CBP inspections may vary in length depending on the circumstances and may involve extended screening.
Protect Sensitive Information: Minimize the amount of sensitive personal or institutional data on electronic devices during travel. Review the Information Privacy and Security Abroad guidance prepared by International Safety and Security.
Understand Your Rights at the Border: The ACLU has prepared a list of common questions that may be helpful to travelers as they prepare for international travel.
If you have questions, we encourage you to reach out to International Safety and Security (safetyabroad@illinois.edu) with general travel questions or the Export Compliance Officer (exportcontrols@illinois.edu) in the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation with export compliance questions.
International Safety and Security will continue to share relevant updates and general reminders to help our campus community travel safely.