This USA travel tip is like a tool in your toolbox. If you are preparing to travel to America from Ghana the tips in this post is must-read in order to have easy entry into the United States of America. Regardless of what you say or write in your application form DS-160, immigration officers are trained to assume that all immigrants have the intention not to return home. It is your job to convince the immigration officer at the border or port of entry that you will return to your home country, Ghana. Before you travel to the United States of America, there are crucial things you should know. That’s what this is all about

You Sang Hallelujah All Night for Getting an American Visa, Now What Next?

Will anything prevent you from entering the United States of America? Absolutely.

Keep in mind that getting your visa approved doesn’t guarantee you will be allowed into the United States. To be clear, the visa issued by the US embassy in Ghana allows you to board a plane. However, it is the immigration officers at the port of entry who have the final say.

The Port of Entry

So, what is the port of entry? The port of entry is essentially where you enter a country. It could be an airport or a border crossing. For the sake of this discussion, we are focusing on airports, which are commonly used by Ghanaians and other immigrants to enter the United States.

Tip: If you are traveling from Africa, there is often a degree of racial profiling, whether we like it or not. It exists. Immigration officers at JFK, or Dallas TX are more familiar with seeing black travelers compared to other airports in the US. I’m not saying you won’t be questioned, but your chances are better at these airports. Use them to your advantage.

Your Bag Size

Be aware that immigration officers are well-trained to detect or detain suspicious visitors at the airport. The size of your bag can raise red flags. For example, if you are coming into the United States for a visit but your bag is as large as someone who won the American lottery green card and is moving to live in the States, you will be questioned. Pack a few clothes and one or two pairs of shoes for your short stay.

I’m speaking from experience. In 2008, I traveled to a country (name withheld) for a holiday. My bag was as large as an African village girl going into marriage. Although I had no intention of not returning, I was refused entry. When we landed, I was the third or so in line. When I got to the officer, he asked me my purpose of visit, which I told him. Not satisfied, he asked me how much money I had. I pulled out $1500, which was a lot back then for a week’s stay. Then he asked where I would be staying. I showed him my accommodation booking. Even the person who invited me was waiting for me at the exit. I was directed to another room for questioning.

Tip: The last thing you want is to give yourself away. One question will lead to another. Before I knew it, I was denied entry and put on the next available plane. You don’t want to experience that.

What You Pack Matters

Unless you have permanent residency or a visa that allows you to travel in and out on multiple occasions, be mindful of what is in your bag. If you are traveling on a visitor visa, don’t pack yams, foodstuffs, or anything that might raise red flags. There are Ghanaian shops in the US where you can buy any food you want. Why risk your chance of entering the US with gari, shito, and all of that?

Prepare Well

If you are coming for a business trip or conference, have the ticket to the event or a letter from the organizers to show to the immigration officers. Trust me, they will ask for it. You should know the event name, address, your purpose, and why you are attending. Also, know where you are going to stay. If you can’t remember the address, have a copy of your accommodation booking or your trip itinerary. They may call to confirm.

Yes, I understand you may be nervous sometimes, but try to keep your composure. Don’t lose your cool. It will help a lot. Remember, it is their country; you are a visitor. They reserve the right to accept or deny anyone into their country. That is why they are there.

Tip: Have all relevant documents handy before joining the line. When you are disorganized, you will be asked to step aside.

Your Finances

You will be asked to prove that you can take care of yourself during your stay. Have some hard cash handy. They may also ask you to open your bank app to see your account balance. Remember, any question they ask you is to confirm what you submitted on your visa application. They want to confirm all of that. If an agent filled out the visa form, you should know what was there. Ariba Travel provides our clients with all the details on the application form. Most of the questions were provided by the client for the application process.

Takeaway

To borrow a phrase from renowned author Brian Tracy, “Proper planning prevents poor performance.” You will do yourself a great service if you heed the tips I’ve shared with you to enhance your chances of entry. Remember, a visa alone is not enough. Your one foot is literally in the United States, and the other is in Ghana. How you plan your trip is what matters.

Are you dreaming of traveling to the US or Canada? We help people travel. Reach out to us using the WhatsApp icon below your screen if our pricing package is within your budget. Have a good one!