CBPGuy
7 Years Experience
SouthWest, US
Male, 25
I am a U. S. Customs and Border Protection Officer on the southwest border between Mexico and the United States. I know the ins and outs of the job as seen on TV/News and things intentionally hidden from the media! There's more to this job than "Anything to declare?" I dont know all but I'll do my best to answer any questions you have! All answers are my opinion, and my opinion only!
When you apply for CBP, you are allowed to select the border you want to work at. When they are ready to hire you, they will call you and give you a list of locations to choose from.
Also, there are no restrictions on traveling outside the United States as an officer.
Every Port of Entry is different, so the work is a little different. All officers are emergency responders. Most officers in the agency don't "answer calls." We dont respond to domestic violence, pull people over for a broken tail light, etc. Within the port, however, we do respond. Assaults, weapons, drugs, etc.
Our job is mainly this: 1. Prevent terrorists from entering the United States. 2. Prevent drugs from entering the United States. 3. Prevent illegal aliens from entering the United States.
Most of the time your processing travelers that are seeking entry. Sometimes you get some action. There are teams that you can join which actually do join other agencies to serve warrants, dress in plain clothes and tail suspects. Its all about what you make of it and what your goal is.
Your answer should be an honest answer. Tell the officer exactly what your intention is upon entering the United States. Provide proof of what you intend to do. Provide a certified letter from the program describing what you will be doing and who will be paying for it. Make sure it states that it is an internship.
Honesty is always the best policy. Officer's are known to "throw the book" at someone once they catch them in a lie.
I recommend you submit your application today! It took me a little over 2 years to get hired. This time frame is very common for all law enforcement positions within the federal government. The process is a very slow and arduous one. For example, you will apply today, in 3 months they will call you to take the test, in 6 months they'll have you do the fitness test, in a year they'll have you take your polygraph, in another 6 to 8 months the second fitness test etc.
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If you are an alien applying for admission to the United States, you can be removed from the United States if you cannot overcome the presumption of being inadmissible. This presumption is based on the Officer's discretion.
Under Border Search Authority, and for national security purposes, Officer's are legally allowed to search your phone (any electronic device) or use computer systems that can replicate the information contained within your phone. You are allowed to verbally deny them, but legally they can then formally seize it and return it to you at a later date if they determined it be necessary.
Legally, you can only be a resident of one country. Having Canadian residency does not automatically invalidate your US residency, but it would be a fact against you. A CBP Officer would set you up to see a judge to make the final determination.
You can go weeks, months, maybe even years crossing the border and not have any issues, but one day you may get caught. Once you lose your "LPR" status the first time, it is extremely difficult to get it again.
You are not restricted to the address you listed on your visa application. When you apply for admission when entering the United States, you will be asked to fill out a blue customs declaration form (6059B). On this form, list the address you will be staying at.
If you have a special work visa, you would need to contact your employer to update the information.
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