Question:
You know, don't you just get fed up being treated badly when coming
into the USA?
The last couple of times have been hassle free, but prior to that, the
amount of questions I have been asked is unbelieveable.
Now, I have an H4 multi entry visa, which, I believe, means I can come
and go as I please!? I often get asked to consult in other countries and
therefore do just that as I cannot earn my living here.
Trying to explain to the Officers...well it gets tiring after a while.
My question to you is: What can they ask? What are our rights?
Answer:
They can virtually ask whatever they wish. Remember even with an H-4B
visa you are still a guest in this country and the agent at the POE has
every right to determine the validity of your status, your intentions at
the present and in the future, etc.
Yes, I guess so, but why issue a multi entry visa, if, every time you
travel, there is an imminent grilling?
If you say the "wrong" thing it gets worse! I was once told I "look too
smartly dressed to have been on vacation." Is THAT fair?
At the moment I am processing my work permit for one of the OECS and I
am travelling a bit. I can prove that...but what is the right approach
to all this?
Anyone had similar problems, particularly at Logan?
Even citizens take a grilling every now and again.
Don't answer rhetorical statements (like the 'looked too smart'
comment), smile and do answer direct questions honestly.
You'll find experiences like this posted for any POE, just as you'll
find pleasant experiences. I've read both for Logan, including a
positive one that went above and beyond the call of duty. It is a crap
shoot which you'll get, but your own attitude (hey, not saying you had
an 'attitude'!) can be helpful or not. Be like a duck and let it roll
off your back like water -- you'll be much happier in the long run.
Not at all. It means you can apply to enter the USA as an H-4.
There's no obligation on them to let you do so.
Whatever they feel they need to ask to be convinced that you are
eligible to be allowed in as an H-4, and that you will keep yourself
in status. The more obvious areas are: that your associated H-1B is
in valid H-1B status; that you are in an appropriate relationship
with the holder of the H-1B; and that you won't be doing any work in
the USA. Their basic assumption is that you are not eligible, and
it's up to you to prove that you are. If you're lucky, just having
a visa is enough to convince them (as it seems to have been for
your last couple of entries).
Very few in practical terms. I think you have the right to a hearing
in front of a judge if they refuse you entry, but I'm not sure of
that. Your main relevant right is to choose not to apply to enter
the USA ...
Don't get stressed out. Leave your dignity home before you come to the
border and you will be fine :) People can be politically correct all
they want, but I will tell you the truth. You have no rights! and yes,
the immigration officer have full control over your future and he can
ruin your life if he chooses to do so. Moral of the story, leave your
dignity home and stop being sensitive!
Mj23: Actually the user name is after a fabulous song by a superb band
Deacon Blue. And, sorry I don't go anywhere without it!
Thank you to the other people who replied...I appreciate your feedback.
At least you provided me with some insight and thoughts.
Mj24: Chip on your shoulder?
I am not an American . I am now just seeking a chance for America. I
mean, I am with the same line with you.
But, the world IS unfair, right? Think about the people longing for a
chance to enter US but would never get it. You are much much even
luckier.
It just so terrible that you have to answer questions when coming to
join your spouse who is making money in the US.
You have very few rights at the border. You have no right to remain
silent, and you have no right to prevent the search of your belongings.
Refusing to answer questions will get you a cancelled visa, a one way
ticket out of the US, and a five year bar from coming back.
I can't tell if you are male or female. If male, it's no surprise that
you get hassled. It may be stereotypical, but not many males sit at
home and watch cartoons while their spouse works. They may be concerned
that you are taking unauthorized employment while in the US.
It's their job to ask questions. They're doing it. If they didn't,
then it would be a lot harder for your family to earn money here because
half of the planet would be here to take the H1 jobs for much less than
your spouse is getting.
