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!
A Visa Waiver applicant (VWP) cannot be placed under removal proceedings. The process of removing a Visa Waiver alien is called a Visa Waiver Refusal under section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. To put it simply, it basically means we want you to go back to your country and apply for a visa because based on the facts presented, we will not allow you to enter under VWP status.
You should only be presented with a copy of the sworn statement.
You will probably be asked several questions as to why you were in the United States for such an extended period of time. It's not normal for a person to be on vacation for 6 months in another country. Be prepared to provide proof of economic solvency to justify your entry into the United States again.
It is always safer to have a physical B1/B2 visa over the Visa Waiver Program. You have slightly more protections (Not much). From what you stated, it doesn't sound like you spend much time in the US over the average person, however every officer is different.
It's really up to you if you want to get a Visa or not. I would just advise to bring proof of solvency every time you enter to make the officer feel more comfortable about allowing you into the country.
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.
I'm not sure of your question, but photos and fingerprints are in our system permanently. There may be an expiration date but none that I know of.
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.
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