Immigration Policy Updates:
International Student FAQs

What is a SEVIS record reactivation?

Last Updated: 04/25/2025

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a government database used to track international students and scholars holding F-1 or J-1 visas. Each student holds a unique SEVIS record. If a previously terminated SEVIS record is successfully reactivated, an F-1 or J-1 student regains the benefits associated with their non-immigrant status while physically present within the U.S. In addition, an individual physically present in the U.S. with an active/reactivated SEVIS record is responsible for maintaining valid F/J status. 

What are the latest developments regarding SEVIS record terminations?

Last Updated: 04/29/2025

As of 04/21/2025, 35 UC Diego students have had their F-1 SEVIS record terminated. As of 04/24/2025, the federal government began reactivating many of the SEVIS records that they previously terminated. As of 04/25/2025, UC San Diego had a total of 17 SEVIS records still in terminated status, with 18 previously terminated records now reactivated. As of 4/28/25, all previously terminated SEVIS records have now been reactivated. To date, UC San Diego has 0 terminations, 35 reactivations and 1 deportation. 

ISEO continues to monitor SEVIS records closely and is working directly with impacted students to provide them with relevant information. Visit Federal Updates Frequently Asked Questions for additional information. 

As a reminder, ISEO will contact you directly if there’s any issue with your SEVIS record. ISEO has recently observed an increase in immigration status scams. Learn about scams currently targeting international students and how to recognize them by visiting iSafety.ucsd.edu.

 What is a SEVIS record termination? 

Last Updated: 04/14/2025

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a government database used to track international students and scholars holding F-1 or J-1 visas. Each student holds a unique SEVIS Record. SEVIS Terminations are required by the federal government to be reported, typically, by a university’s Designated School Officials (DSOs) - at UC San Diego, this is the International Services and Engagement Office (ISEO) - in response to a warranted change in or violation of a student’s status.   

However, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently begun terminating SEVIS records directly without notifying students or universities. A SEVIS termination by DHS immediately ends a student’s lawful immigration status in the U.S. and all benefits associated with their F-1 or J-1 visa status.   

Note, a SEVIS Record termination does not automatically result in a Visa Revocation.   

What is a visa revocation?

Last Updated: 04/14/2025

A visa revocation is the cancellation of the visa stamp in a visa holder’s passport by a Department of State or a Department of Homeland Security official. The U.S. Department of State holds the authority to revoke previously issued visas. When a visa is revoked, the visa stamp in a passport becomes invalid for future entry into the United States, even if it has not yet expired.  
  
While visa revocation does not automatically terminate a visa holder’s immigration status, it may prompt DHS to review their case and potentially determine whether they are out of status.  

How will I know if my visa has been revoked?

Last Updated: 04/14/2025

If your visa is revoked, the U.S. Department of State typically notifies you via the email address you provided during your visa application—this may not be your university email. Individuals traveling or re-entering the U.S. may also receive notice while attempting entry to the U.S. The university is not routinely informed of visa revocations. If you receive such a notice, please notify ISEO.  
  
Because notification practices can vary, if you suspect your visa may have been revoked but have not received any communication, you can check with the U.S. embassy or consulate that issued your visa or use the Department of State’s Visa Status Check portal.  

Does an expired visa mean it has been revoked?

Last Updated: 04/14/2025

No. An expired F-1 or J-1 visa is not the same as a revoked visa. An F-1 or J-1 visa is only used to seek entry into the U.S.; it does not determine how long a person can stay.  Length of stay is determined at the port of entry by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), as indicated on Form I-94 and supported by SEVIS Form I-20 (for F-1 students) or DS-2019 (for J-1 students/scholars).  
  
If your visa has expired and you leave the U.S., you must obtain a new visa, paired with a valid Form I-20 or Form DS-2019, before seeking re-entry.   

What should I do if my visa is revoked, or my SEVIS record is terminated? 

Last Updated: 04/14/2025

If you are informed that your visa has been revoked, contact ISEO with the details you received. ISEO will check your SEVIS record to determine whether it has been terminated.   
A terminated SEVIS record indicates that your F-1 or J-1 status has ended. If either your visa is revoked or your SEVIS record is terminated, your next step should be to consult with an immigration attorney.  

Per federal regulations, students who fail to maintain valid status:  

• Are ineligible for a grace period for departure (8 CFR 214.2(f)(5)(iv))  

• For F-1 students, cannot continue on-campus employment or engage in curricular practical training (8 CFR 274a.12(b)(6))  

• For F-1 alumni, will lose authorization for any approved post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT or STEM OPT)  

• For J-1 students and alumni, will no longer qualify for Academic Training  

How do I find an immigration attorney for legal advice?

Last Updated: 04/14/2025

Given the unprecedented nature of these terminations and unique circumstances of each student, we recommend that each affected person consult with a lawyer to determine the next steps for them.   

Visit iResource.ucsd.edu for tips on how to find an immigration attorney.   

What are we doing to inform students early about risks and when they lose their visa status?

Last Updated: 04/22/2025

With so much uncertainty ahead, should I travel?

^{Last Updated: 04/30/2025}

We understand your concerns about making travel plans given the ongoing uncertainty. As new administrative actions continue to unfold, ISEO strongly urges students, scholars, and their families to carefully evaluate international travel plans at this time. U.S. immigration policy remains unpredictable and subject to rapid changes, so we encourage our community to stay informed and consult an ISEO advisor for any specific case questions or concerns.  

Considering Impact for Currently Enrolled Students  

• How might this impact your ability to continue your academic program at UC San Diego? 

• If you are in your final quarter, what impact/disruption might this have on your academic plans and ability to graduate? 

• How might this impact your long-term academic goals (pursuing graduate school or terminal degrees)?   

• How might this impact your current on-campus employment (TA/GSR) or off-campus employment (CPT/AT)? 

• How might this impact your on-going research? 

• How might this impact your future professional goals after graduation, such as pursuing OPT/AT?  

• How might this impact your housing or residence in the U.S.?  

• How might this impact your dependents (on an F-2 or J-2 dependent visa) or any pets located in the U.S.?  

• What personal belongings, such as items within your home or a car, do you have in the U.S. and how will you coordinate retrieving those belongings? 
• If not permitted entry to the U.S., do you have a direct contact to notify? Ensure family/friends know your expected arrival into the U.S. Memorize a telephone number for someone you may want to contact and inform of this information, such as a family member, friend, or immigration attorney.  

Considering Impact for Alumni/Students on OPT, STEM OPT, AT 

• How might this impact your long-term academic goals, such as pursuing a graduate program or terminal degree? 

• How does this impact your current employment?  

• How does this impact any other immigration benefits you may have applied for, such as a change of status to H1B or adjustment of status to Permanent Resident?  

• How does this impact your housing or residence in the U.S.?  

• How might this impact your dependents (on an F-2 or J-2 dependent visa) or any pets located in the U.S.?  

• What personal belongings, such as items within your home or a car, do you have in the U.S. and how will you coordinate retrieving those belongings?  

Additional Considerations  

• Have you previously undergone administrative processing or experienced additional questioning at a U.S. port of entry?  

• How have you maintained your visa status in the U.S.? 

• Do you have sufficient funds to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you can cover all expenses and financially support yourself without relying on U.S. government support? 

• Can you demonstrate strong ties to your home country and that you do not intend to permanently immigrate to the U.S. (demonstration of non-immigrant intent)? 

• What is your field of study, research, or employment? Can it be considered of concern to U.S. security interests?  

• Have there been significant delays in completing your program of study?  

• CBP can ask to search all your electronic devices. Be mindful of what is on your devices and ensure it complies with all visa and immigration regulations. Review the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) electronic device search guidance. 

• If you have any concerns related to past interactions with law enforcement—including prior convictions, even if charges were dismissed or you were cleared—have you consulted with an immigration attorney to understand any potential risks associated with travel? 
   

If you decide to travel, we recommend booking refundable tickets to give yourself flexibility in case of unexpected changes in U.S. immigration policy or administration. 

 While the decision to grant entry ultimately rests with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer, we encourage you to set yourself up for success: carry all required immigration documents for re-entry, review our Immigration Policy Updates before departure, and monitor your email for any important messages from ISEO. 

 
Students who have additional case-specific questions as they carefully consider their travel plans are strongly encouraged to consult an immigration attorney. 

My F-1 or J-1 Visa is expiring soon. Should I depart the U.S. to renew it? 

^{Last Updated: 02/04/2025}

A visa is a legal document that grants you permission to seek entry to a particular country for a specific reason (for example, study or tourism). All international students, except for citizens of Canada and Bermuda, must have a valid F or J visa to enter the U.S.  

As a reminder, students are able to REMAIN in the U.S. with an expired F-1 or J-1 visa as long as their Form I-20 or DS-2019 remains valid. Travel is not necessary for the sole purpose of renewing an F-1 or J-1 visa. However, if you are already outside of the U.S. or choose to depart the U.S., you will need a valid F-1 or J-1 visa in order to request reentry.  

Before departing the U.S., ensure you have the necessary documents for re-entry and review average visa appointment wait times. 

Use your own discretion in assessing your choice to apply for a visa renew abroad as this process may take some time. Entry into the U.S. is always at the discretion of the officer at the Port of Entry and is not guaranteed.  

What should I do if my visa is denied? 

^{Last Updated: 02/04/2025}

Please contact an ISEO International Student Advisor immediately to let them know that your visa has been denied. When reaching out, please also provide them with details and a copy/picture of any document provided to you indicating the denial and reason. 

Can my visa be canceled after it has been approved?

Last Updated: 03/24/2025

Prudential Visa Revocation refers to when the U.S. Department of State (DOS) cancels a visa. This usually occurs when the DOS believes that a person is no longer following the rules of their visa or is not complying with U.S. laws or policies. These types of visa cancellations may be happening more often. If your visa is revoked, it could affect your ability to return to the U.S. after traveling internationally. 

• DOS Guidance to Officers about Prudential Visa Revocations 

If you have ever been arrested for any reason—including for driving under the influence (DUI)—it is especially important to seek legal advice. Some individuals may not know their visa has been revoked until they try to return to the U.S. and find it is no longer valid. 

If you believe you may be impacted, we strongly advise you to speak to an ISEO advisor if you would like resources, as well as an immigration attorney before traveling outside the U.S. \

Do I need a new travel signature to return to the U.S.? 

^{Last Updated: 12/06/2024}

ISEO issues students a new travel signature each time a new or updated F-1 Form I-20 or J-1 Form DS-2019 is issued. Always use the most recently issued valid Form I-20 or DS-2019 from ISEO to seek re-entry to the U.S. Visit iTravel.ucsd.edu to understand how to check the validity of your travel signature. Ensure your travel signature will be valid AT THE TIME OF RE-ENTRY TO THE U.S.  

I’ve heard that original documents should be carried - is a digitally signed DS-2019 okay, or should I request a wet signature? 

Last Updated: 04/22/2025

ISEO no longer issues wet signatures, as the Department of State, Customs and Border Protection, and other government agencies accept digital signatures from Alternate Responsible Officers (AROs) within ISEO. For travel and visa appointments, a DS-2019 that has been digitally signed by an ARO at ISEO is considered an “original document” as long as you print out a paper copy and sign your own signature in ink 

I come from one of the countries that was on the ban list during the last Trump administration. Should I try to renew my visa in a country other than my own?

^{Last Updated: 02/04/2025}

We recommend you speak directly with an ISEO Advisor to discuss your travel plans and options available to you.

I’ve seen a proposed list of countries—categorized as red, orange, or yellow—that could potentially face future travel bans. I’m from one of those countries. What should I consider before making international travel plans? 

Last Updated: 04/22/2025

We understand how concerning it can be to see your country listed under proposed travel risk categories such as red, orange, or yellow. While no official policy may be in effect yet, proposed changes can be implemented with little notice.

Before traveling, here is how we recommend approaching international travel: 

• Red (highest concern): We strongly advise against non-essential travel. The risk of being unable to return to the U.S. if a travel ban is implemented is significant. Consult with ISEO in advance and prepare contingency plans in case of re-entry delays or denial. 
• Orange (moderate concern): Travel should be approached with caution. If travel is necessary, consult with ISEO in advance and prepare contingency plans in case of re-entry delays or denial. 
• Yellow (elevated awareness): Monitor developments closely. While risk may be lower, policies can change quickly. 

In all cases: 

• Stay informed by monitoring updates from the U.S. Department of State and Department of Homeland Security. 
• Consult with ISEO to discuss your individual situation before making travel decisions. 
• Make sure you have the necessary document to re-enter the U.S., such as your valid passport, visa, and relevant immigration document (I-20, DS-2019, H-1B approval notice). 
• Consider your ability to remain abroad for an extended period, if re-entry becomes delayed or restricted. 

I identify as transgender or nonbinary. Will the federal government changes affect how my gender is listed on my visa or other documents? 

Last Updated: 03/24/2025

The Federal Government has begun implementing the January Executive Order titled Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government. Following this order, visas are now being issued based on one’s sex assigned at birth, regardless of the gender identified in an individual’s passport or immigration document (such as the I-20 or DS-2019).  If you are or could be affected by these changes, we encourage you to speak to an ISEO advisor prior to any international travel. 

Do I need to carry my documents when traveling domestically? 

^{Last Updated: 02/04/2025}

Due to the proximity of San Diego to international borders, we recommend that you carry your passport and Form I-20 or J-1 Form DS-2019 with you when traveling on major freeways. You may be asked to present important documents when passing through checkpoints within California (for example: the I-5 Highway in San Clemente, I-15 near Rainbow, as well as I-8, and other roads in East County).

Customs and Border Protection may set up check points to stop and question travelers about their citizenship or immigration status.  

Can I carry my EAD card or driver’s license instead of my passport as proof of my identity and immigration status? 

^{Last Updated: 04/22/2025}

No, your EAD card or driver’s license alone is not sufficient to serve as proof of your immigration status, especially for travel or official purposes. While a U.S. driver’s license can serve as proof of identity, it does not show your immigration status. Similarly, an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) reflects your work authorization but not your full immigration status or identity. 
 
For most purposes—especially air travel, interaction with law enforcement, or employment verification—you should carry your valid passport (from your home country) and any relevant immigration documents (such as your visa, I-94 record, DS-2019, I-20, or H-1B approval notices). These documents together demonstrate both your identity and your legal status in the U.S

Do I need to carry physical copies of my documents or are electronic copies sufficient? 

^{Last Updated: 04/22/2025}

We recommend carrying your original immigration documents with you at all times, especially when traveling within San Diego County, throughout Southern California, or across state lines. Due to UC San Diego’s proximity to the U.S./Mexico border and several internal checkpoints, you may be asked to present documentation verifying your immigration status. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may establish checkpoints to stop and question travelers about their citizenship or immigration status. We encourage you to carry original or when not possible, clear copies of your key documents, passport and Form I-20 or J-1 Form DS-2019. 

Is there anything I need to know if I am traveling to a U.S. island such as Hawaii? 

^{Last Updated: 04/22/2025}

Travel to U.S. islands such as Hawaii or Puerto Rico is considered domestic travel, as long as you do not transit through another country (including international layovers). However, you should still carry your immigration documents—such as your I-94, DS-2019, I-20, or other relevant paperwork—when traveling domestically within the U.S., as federal officers (such as Customs and Border Protection or other law enforcement) may request to see them. 

Is it safe to attend protests as an international student?

Last Updated: 04/25/2025

We encourage students to carefully consider their involvement in protest activities and to fully understand their rights and responsibilities when participating in protests, both off-campus and at UC San Diego.

Students should also be aware that on January 29th, 2025, an Executive Order (Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism) and an accompanying fact sheet were released, focusing on campus protests and signaling potential updates to reporting and enforcement policies around these activities.

Students choosing to engage in protest activities can find important information regarding rights, responsibilities, and resources on UC San Diego’s Free Expression website.  In addition, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) offers a comprehensive Know Your Rights series, including protestor’s rights.  

ISEO has additional Freedom of Expression resources on the Legal Resources page.

What ways can I prioritize my mental health and well-being during times of uncertainty? 

^{Last Updated: 12/10/2024}

Students are encouraged to seek out support services and stay connected during times of uncertainty. Here are some support services available to students: 

1. The Art of Belonging is a community support forum for international students hosted by ISEO and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). At Art of Belonging, students can build community, prioritize well-being and mental health, learn how to navigate challenges, and strategize ways to thrive. 
2. Meet with Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) - multiple languages available. Meeting with a mental health professional in your native language may be a powerful way to process your experiences and receive support. Learn more about languages offered here. 
3. CAPS Community Connections: https://caps.ucsd.edu/_files/flyers/flyer_forums.pdf (FA24); WI25 schedule to be posted soon)
4. Triton2Triton: Student Support Chat is a supportive, online connection space where UC San Diego students can connect with trained peers who understand what they're going through and can offer resources. Whether you need resources, tips, or just someone to talk to, Triton2Triton is available through our interactive chat from Monday through Friday, Summer Hours of 10 AM to 2PM. Outside of those hours, you may submit a form through the chat so that we can get back to you as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please connect with the T2T team through our Instagram, @ucsd_sacm.
5. Togetherall: Mental Health Community is a safe, online mental health community where UC San Diego students can anonymously connect with others who understand what they're going through. Whether you want to get advice, tips, or just need someone to listen, Togetherall is available 24/7.
6. Student Affairs Resource Guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SnTke7f1WIzmuctjwXjgAaomXMohOd75/view
7. Willo App

How worried should I be about news reports on proposed legislation?  

Last Updated: 03/24/2025

We understand that news stories about proposed laws or immigration changes can be stressful. However, it’s important to remember that proposed legislation does not mean a law has been passed. There is a long process before a proposal can become law. This includes writing the bill, reviewing it in committees, and voting in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate. 

We encourage our international community to stay informed, but also to be cautious. Not all news reports are fully accurate, and some may be based on speculation or incomplete information. 

If a new law or regulation is passed that may affect our international community, UC San Diego and ISEO will provide clear and timely guidance to help you understand what it means and what steps to take. 

How do I maintain my visa status? 

^{Last Updated: 12/06/2024}

International students should maintain their visa status at all times. Maintaining your visa status ensure you are eligible to apply for benefits under the F-1 and J-1 visa categories, including travel, employment, and future benefits. See ISEO's Maintaining Visa Checklist to learn more. 

What is the Alien Registration Process? Does this affect me?  

^{Last Updated: 04/11/2025}

Effective April 11, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is implementing a new rule to establish a USCIS alien registration process for certain nonimmigrants to comply with new required registration and fingerprinting provisions. For more details see Interim Final Rule. 
 
Am I already registered? 

Most nonimmigrant students, scholars, and their families are not affected and do not need to take any action, as they already fulfill registration and fingerprinting requirements through the visa and entry process. However, some individuals crossing Canadian land borders and dependent children who have turned or are turning 14 while in the U.S. may be impacted. 

If you were legally admitted into the U.S. and you have been issued a valid I-94, you do not need to complete the USCIS Alien Registration. It is important to carry your immigration documentation with you at all times and report any change of address within the required 10-day timeframe.To see a complete list of individuals that are considered to be already registered see:  

• USCIS Alien Registration   
   

What do I need to do if I or my child dependents need to register? 
Children who have turned 14 years old while in the U.S. will need to register. See USCIS Alien Registration for more information.  

How do I get a hold of ISEO if I have an emergency?

Last Updated: 04/25/2025

For a true emergency that is related to health or safety, call 911, or the UC San Diego Campus Police at 858-534-4357.  If you have an emergency and need to contact the International Services and Engagement Office (ISEO), please visit our Emergency Contact page for immediate assistance.  

• Between 9:00am – 4:00pm, call 858-534-3730 
• After Hours, call 858-534-4357  
• You can download and print this Emergency Contact card, or save it as a digital copy.  

How do I contact my ISEO advisor? 

Last Updated: 04/25/2025

ISEO advisors are here to support you, you can contact an ISEO advisor by visiting the ISEO Contact page. 

How do I find an immigration attorney?

Last Updated: 04/25/2025

If you're looking for an immigration attorney, the following resources may be helpful: 

• ISEO's Legal Resources Page: For a list of resources and information on finding an immigration attorney. 
• San Diego County Bar Lawyer Referral and Information Service: A great resource for connecting with licensed attorneys in San Diego.  
• UC Immigrant Legal Services Center (UCIMM): UCIMM provides legal support to immigrant UC students and their immediate family members. They also offer consultations for UC staff and faculty.

Where can I find reliable information about current immigration and policy issues?

Last Updated: 04/25/2025

Staying informed is important—and we get that it can be hard to know where to start. If you're looking for advocacy-focused perspectives on immigration and related topics, here are a few places to begin: 

• ISEO Updates: Visit iUpdates.ucsd.edu for UC San Diego-specific updates and messages from our office. 
• UC Federal Updates: The University of California Federal Government Relations page shares systemwide statements and updates on federal policy developments impacting the UC community. 
• American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): Offers updates, advocacy efforts, and legal perspectives on immigration and civil rights issues. Visit aclu.org and explore their Immigrants’ Rights section. 
• Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC): A great resource for policy updates, community education materials, and immigrant advocacy tools. Visit ilrc.org. 
• National Immigration Law Center (NILC): Provides policy updates, research, and public education materials related to immigration and immigrant rights. Visit nilc.org to explore their resources. 

How can I protect myself and understand my rights? Where can I find resources? 

Last Updated: 03/11/2025

Understanding your rights is crucial, especially during times of change or uncertainty. In addition to updates from ISEO, we encourage UC San Diego community members to review the University of California’s FAQ for University Employees about Federal Enforcement Actions on University Property. This FAQ provides important information about what U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may request and what to expect if ICE is present on campus.

If you become aware of ICE officials on campus to execute a federal immigration order, or if you are subject to an immigration inquiry, refer to UC San Diego’s Immigration Enforcement Policies, Procedures and FAQ for the appropriate office(s) to contact.

 To further educate yourself on your rights in the U.S., the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) offers a comprehensive series of Know Your Rights resources. These resources cover topics such as protest participation and immigration status.

 Additional Resources:

• ISEO Emergency Resources (isafety.ucsd.edu)
• ISEO Legal Resources
• ISEO Health and Wellness Resources
• UCSD Immigration Enforcement Policies, Procedures, and FAQ
• UC Immigrant Legal Services Center
• University of California Federal Updates 

 What actions can jeopardize my immigration status?

Last Updated: 03/11/2025

Maintaining your immigration status while in the U.S. is important, and we encourage you to review our guidelines to help you stay informed about how to do so:

• F-1/J-1 Student status

Along with meeting enrollment requirements, reporting address changes, and adhering to employment restrictions, individuals in non-immigrant status are expected to comply with all U.S. state and federal laws. Failure to comply with maintenance requirements or state and federal laws may result in serious, long-term consequences for both your current and future immigration status.

If you have questions about what activities are allowed on your current UC San Diego-sponsored status, please contact ISEO to speak to a student advisor.

Can my social media presence affect my immigration status or my ability to enter the US?

Last Updated: 03/24/2025

We advise international students and scholars to be thoughtful about their presence on social media and other public platforms. While you have the right to engage in lawful, expressive activity—both online and offline—it’s important to understand that such activity can carry increased risks when it comes to immigration processes. 

In January, the White House released the Executive Order titled Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats. This executive order calls for enhanced screening and vetting procedures. As part of these procedures, U.S. federal agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may review your social media activity or other publicly available information. This information may be considered during visa applications, entries to the U.S., and other immigration-related decisions. 

Can border agents search, or keep, my phone or laptop? 

Last Updated: 04/22/2025

Yes, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has the authority to request and search electronic devices from travelers seeking to enter the United States, and they may also retain these devices for further searching. These border searches do not require a warrant. While U.S. citizens cannot be denied entry, foreign nationals—including those entering in J-1, F-1, or H-1B status—may be denied entry or experience delays if they refuse to comply with such requests.

Resources to better understand your rights:  

• CBP: Border Search of Electronic Devices at Ports of Entry  
• Traveling with Electronic Devices  
• Electronic Device Searches at U.S. Ports of Entry: What You Need to Know 
• Can Border Agents Search Your Electronic Devices? It’s Complicated  

What level of search is CBP doing? Can they review my messages on different apps, posts, or data saved to the cloud?   

Last Updated: 04/22/2025

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can look through your phone, laptop, or other electronic devices when you enter the United States. This is called a "basic search" and may include checking your photos, emails, or other files that are stored on the device itself. CBP officers should not access cloud content (such as files stored only in Google Drive, iCloud, or Dropbox), but sometimes cloud data may still be seen if your apps are open or if your device is connected to the internet. 

Resources to better understand your rights:  

• CBP: Border Search of Electronic Devices at Ports of Entry  
• Traveling with Electronic Devices  
• Electronic Device Searches at U.S. Ports of Entry: What You Need to Know 
• Can Border Agents Search Your Electronic Devices? It’s Complicated