This week, Extra.ie reported that people travelling to the US have been "aggressively questioned" at Dublin Airport by border patrol officials.
US immigration authorities also confirmed to Extra.ie that they will, in some cases, look at social media accounts and deny visas or residence permits to people who post content considered anti-Semitic by President Donald Trump’s administration.
Dublin Airport is one of the few airports outside North America offering US Preclearance. This means passengers clear US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before boarding their flight, arriving in the US as domestic passengers.
It's a convenient system but requires preparation and with hostile or uncomfortable experiences clearly increasing, here’s a breakdown of how best to do exactly that.
Arrive Early
Allow at least three hours before your flight, especially during peak travel seasons.
Preclearance can involve multiple steps: airline check-in, Irish airport security, US CBP screening, and sometimes an agricultural check.
Arriving early reduces stress and will give you some breathing room in the event that an uncomfortable situation does arise.
Documents and ESTA
Make sure you have a valid passport, a confirmed boarding pass, and an approved ESTA or visa (if applicable).
Have all documents ready to present quickly as you approach the top of the line.
If you’re using the Visa Waiver Program, apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before travel.
Baggage and Declarations
Pack according to US rules and avoid bringing any prohibited items. Certain foods are not allowed along with plant products or large liquid containers in carry-on bags.
If you’re carrying anything that needs declaring—such as a large amount of cash or agricultural items—do so honestly to avoid fines or delays.
Don’t Bring Unnecessary Devices
If you are concerned about authorities searching through your phone or social media accounts, it might be a good idea to bring a temporary device with you while travelling to the US.
Democrats Abroad chair, Patti Shields, said expat US citizens who are planning on returning home soon are sharing advice among each other about how to "navigate immigration."
"They’re talking not bringing your laptop with you or any devices that have your social media on it so as not to catch the eye or the ire of any immigration officials," she said.
"I know of two very frequent travellers to the States who travel back and forward all the time through Dublin who received a very aggressive kind of scolding and questioning by immigration officials in the last couple of weeks."
"It’s well within their rights to search your phone."
At Preclearance
After security, follow signs for US Preclearance.
Be prepared for questions from CBP officers about your trip, accommodation, finances, and return plans.
Do your best to remain calm and answer all questions clearly and truthfully as authorities can deny entry even before you board.
*This article was originally published on Extra.ie.
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