By Junayd Rehman, Associate Attorney at Waypoint Immigration USA
Traveling abroad can be exciting, but if you are a non-citizen traveling with advance parole, it will be only natural to feel a little nervous about re-entering the United States. The advance parole document allows certain individuals, particularly those with pending green card applications, to re-enter the United States without having to obtain a visa. However, the process involves more than just presenting your document at the airport. One crucial step in the journey back is secondary inspection—a part of the customs and immigration process that can often catch some travelers off guard.
In this entry we break it all down, so you know what to expect and how to prepare for a smooth return to the U.S. this holiday season and beyond.
🡪 What Is Advance Parole?
First, a quick refresher. Advance parole is a travel document issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows individuals in certain immigration statuses—like those with pending Adjustment of Status (green card) applications, DACA recipients, or individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS)—to travel internationally and lawfully return to the United States.
Advance parole is not a guarantee of re-entry, but it does allow you to seek admission into the U.S. without losing your immigration status or having to obtain a visa from a U.S. consulate.
🡪 What Is Secondary Inspection?
Secondary inspection is a process conducted by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the port of entry (airport, seaport, or land border). It is essentially a deeper review of your documents, status, and eligibility to enter the U.S. If something about your case requires additional scrutiny or verification, CBP will refer you to secondary inspection.
For travelers with advance parole, secondary inspection is a routine part of the re-entry process. You will be escorted to a separate area where an officer will verify your documentation and confirm your eligibility to re-enter.
🡪 Why Am I Being Sent to Secondary Inspection with Advance Parole?
The main reason advance parole travelers are sent to secondary inspection is that your status and entry eligibility may require extra verification. Unlike a U.S. visa or green card, advance parole is not an admission stamp—it is simply a document that allows you to request re-entry. CBP officers need to review your specific immigration status, confirm the validity of your advance parole, and ensure there are no issues with your case.
This does not mean you have done anything wrong. Secondary inspection is standard for advance parole holders and happens to thousands of travelers every day. No need to fret.
What to Expect During Secondary Inspection
Secondary inspection may feel intimidating, but understanding what happens during the process can help ease your nerves:
Escorted to the Inspection AreaAfter presenting your advance parole at the primary inspection booth, the officer will likely call over a colleague who will escort you to the secondary inspection area. This area is typically a separate room at the airport or port of entry.
Document ReviewA CBP officer will review your advance parole document, passport, and any other supporting documents (e.g., Adjustment of Status receipt notice, DACA approval, TPS documentation, etc.). They may ask you a few questions about your travel, your immigration case, and/or your time abroad.
Database ChecksThe officer will verify your information in CBP and USCIS databases to ensure your advance parole is valid and there are no red flags, such as a pending removal order, criminal issues, or an abandonment of your immigration application.
Adjudication and Entry StampOnce the officer is satisfied with your documentation and case, they will admit you to the U.S. and stamp your passport. Depending on your status, the stamp may include a temporary notation about your parole status.
Time and DelaysSecondary inspection can take anywhere from 10 minutes to a few hours, depending on how busy the port of entry is and the complexity of your case or issues raised by the CBP officer. Bring a book or something to pass the time in the event your secondary inspection lasts longer than anticipated.
Common Questions Asked During Secondary Inspection
CBP officers may ask you questions to clarify your situation and confirm your eligibility for re-entry. Some common questions include:
Why did you travel abroad?
How long were you outside the U.S.?
What is your current immigration status?
Do you have any criminal history or pending legal issues?
Are you still pursuing your Adjustment of Status or other immigration application?
Be truthful and consistent with your answers. Misrepresentation or false statements will have serious consequences for your immigration case and potential future in the United States.
How to Prepare for Secondary Inspection
The key to a smooth secondary inspection process is preparation. Here are some tips:
1. Carry All Relevant Documents In addition to your advance parole document, bring your passport and any supporting documents that prove your immigration status. For example:
Adjustment of Status applicants: I-797 receipt notice for Form I-485
DACA recipients: DACA approval notice and Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
TPS holders: TPS approval notice
Employment-based applicants: Job offer letter or proof of ongoing employment (if applicable)
2. Double-Check Your Travel Dates Make sure your advance parole document is valid for the entire duration of your trip. Do not attempt to re-enter the U.S. without talking to an attorney if your advance parole has expired.
3. Be Honest and Consistent Answer all questions truthfully. If you are unsure about a question, it is okay to say so—just avoid making assumptions or providing information you are not sure about.
4. Prepare for Delays While secondary inspection is usually routine, it can take time. Allow for extra time at the airport in case the process takes longer than expected.
5. Know Your Rights CBP officers have the authority to question you, but you also have rights. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about something during the process, you can politely request clarification, ask for a supervisor, or seek legal assistance.
What Happens If There is an Issue?
In rare cases, CBP may find an issue with your advance parole or your immigration status during secondary inspection. For example:
If your advance parole has expired, you may not be admitted and could face removal proceedings.
If there are concerns about abandonment of your immigration application (e.g., because of long travel durations), CBP may refer your case to USCIS for further review.
If there are discrepancies in your case, you may be asked to provide additional documentation or return for an interview.
If you are denied entry or encounter issues, it is critical to contact an immigration attorney immediately.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with advance parole any time of year requires preparation, but understanding the secondary inspection process can make it much less daunting. Remember, secondary inspection is a standard procedure for advance parole holders, and it is designed to ensure that all travelers meet U.S. entry requirements.
By carrying the right documents, answering questions truthfully, and knowing what to expect, and keeping calm, you can make the process as smooth as possible. And as always, if you are unsure about anything, consult an immigration attorney before your trip to ensure you are fully prepared. Safe travels!
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