POE - mom doesn't speak any english

[gandacel 7]

Hey guys, just a quick question. My mom's coming to visit me in April - hooray - and she is flying into Boston. I already printed, filled out and translated the questions in the 2 entry forms. I just don't know how she's gonna pass through passport control because she doesn't speak/understand any English. Any advice/own experience with your folks? I was thinking to send her a piece of paper that she could give to the officer at passport control that says she doesn't speak english, and she's gonna stay with my husband and I. And that we are at the airport waiting for her, leave our phone numbers. What do you think?

[TimeTravel 78]

I was thinking to send her a piece of paper that she could give to the officer at passport control that says she doesn't speak english, and she's gonna stay with my husband and I. And that we are at the airport waiting for her, leave our phone numbers. What do you think?

Yes, that is good idea. Make sure to mention the complete address where she will stay, phone number, alternate phone number, etc etc. It would be totally okay. There are so many visitors who dont speak the English, and is able to pass the POE.

But you may give some common training to her:

Like if she wants water, then she can ask for water, and ask for toilet, etc etc. Like common things that one may need.

Hope it helps.

Edited March 9, 2012 by iwaiting

[ania1979 0]

she dont need translation in english.

she just need to go to the officer on the airport and show her passport and return ticket. she dont need to talk.

you dont need to teach her english because in the plane she will find somebody that speak her language. she will have a easier fly if you will buy her non-stop ticket so you dont need to worry about the transfer on the airports. somebody will help her in the plain with the i-94.

my mother was visiting me 2 times in usa and everything was fine.

[aaydrian 479]

Hey guys, just a quick question. My mom's coming to visit me in April - hooray - and she is flying into Boston. I already printed, filled out and translated the questions in the 2 entry forms. I just don't know how she's gonna pass through passport control because she doesn't speak/understand any English. Any advice/own experience with your folks? I was thinking to send her a piece of paper that she could give to the officer at passport control that says she doesn't speak english, and she's gonna stay with my husband and I. And that we are at the airport waiting for her, leave our phone numbers. What do you think?

Most of what was suggested (by you & others) is good but instead of training her to speak English, just have your mother travel with small cue cards stating her most likely her requests (for food, bathroom, she's not feeling well, she'd like a pillow/blanket etc) in her native language with English translations. But for the love that is all that's holy DO NOT leave it up to the assumption that others on the plane/in the airport will speak her language because you and your mother could be in for a rude awakening. I've seen where persons can't move foward because no visitors or airport personnel speaks their language.

Just have ALL her forms filled out. On cards: reason for visit, duration of visit, who she's visiting, has she been to the US before (seems that ans is no, if yes when &/how long) what if anything she is or isn't carrying in her luggage. If you want a speedy exit just tell Mommzie not to 'sneak' any meats, flowers, herbs etc that she may feel you need from the old country. Tell your mother not to be nervous and everything will be fine.

Oh yeah, if for any reason they need to bring you to a restricted area, bring an ID or two to indentify yourself as daughter or if its yor husband as her son-in-law.

[Harpa Timsah 13,258]

Hey guys, just a quick question. My mom's coming to visit me in April - hooray - and she is flying into Boston. I already printed, filled out and translated the questions in the 2 entry forms. I just don't know how she's gonna pass through passport control because she doesn't speak/understand any English. Any advice/own experience with your folks? I was thinking to send her a piece of paper that she could give to the officer at passport control that says she doesn't speak english, and she's gonna stay with my husband and I. And that we are at the airport waiting for her, leave our phone numbers. What do you think?

I read something from a CBP officer who said he wished people who didn't speak english would also say "how long they are staying" on their card so the officer doesn't need a translator. I'd add that to the card.

[gandacel 7]

you guys rock! I love this website! Yeah, I already told her not to bring all those things, it was tough though because my mom still thinks it's necessary to buy me kitchen towels and #### like that from over there, because she's not sure if the stuff here is as good as in Italy )) I know she will realize how wrong that is when she gets here. Anyways, thanks again for all the helpful suggestions!

[aaydrian 479]

you guys rock! I love this website! Yeah, I already told her not to bring all those things, it was tough though because my mom still thinks it's necessary to buy me kitchen towels and #### like that from over there, because she's not sure if the stuff here is as good as in Italy )) I know she will realize how wrong that is when she gets here. Anyways, thanks again for all the helpful suggestions!

Your welcome

Just to make myself clear, the ID you would bring would be official/government issued for example drivers license & or passport. And remind your mother not to put her travel documents/necessities (passport/medication) in her checked luggage. She's only allowed a certain amount of liquid medication in her carry on, not sure of the quantity so you and call the airline and inquire about that and other do's and don'ts.

Safe travels and happy vacation when it comes.

Edited March 9, 2012 by aaydrian