Visitors who don't speak English

[Mrs D. 13]

Good afternoon Folks,

My mom will be travelling to the states to visit us but she does not speak English. I am trying my best to come up with ways to make the trip easier on her and was wondering what happens at the POE in case a visitor does not speak English.

The only thing I can think of is writing a letter explaining the purpose of her visit as well as containing our contact details (we will be waiting for her at the arrivals hall). She could hand in the letter with her passport to the officer - not sure if this is a good idea.

I am sure my mom is not the only one and was wondering if you could share your experience or knowledge. Any ideas of what the solution might be would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you so much in advance.

[Harpa Timsah 13,258]

I have read that CBP would like people to have notes that state the following: Where they are going to stay, how long they are going to stay, the purpose of the visit, and contact details.

They will probably have a translator available anyway.

[lovebirds85 12]

Every airport has translators for that purose especially in the US. Do not worry but she will be required to fill form I 94 on the plane with information like names, country goods to declare etc ...

[Mrs D. 13]

Thanks a lot for your replies

I have taken care of I-94 for her. I downloaded the form from the gov web site, filled out one with all her data and had her print out blanks to practice before she goes.

[Sirdaniel42 86]

Thank you for bringing up this topic, my parents have the same "problem" and the advice given is great. :thumbs:

[Sirdaniel42 86]

Thanks a lot for your replies

I have taken care of I-94 for her. I downloaded the form from the gov web site, filled out one with all her data and had her print out blanks to practice before she goes.

Also think about the Customs Form.

[Mrs D. 13]

Definitely, I did the same for customs form as well. Thank you

[Alaskan 10]

Good afternoon Folks,

My mom will be travelling to the states to visit us but she does not speak English. I am trying my best to come up with ways to make the trip easier on her and was wondering what happens at the POE in case a visitor does not speak English.

The only thing I can think of is writing a letter explaining the purpose of her visit as well as containing our contact details (we will be waiting for her at the arrivals hall). She could hand in the letter with her passport to the officer - not sure if this is a good idea.

I am sure my mom is not the only one and was wondering if you could share your experience or knowledge. Any ideas of what the solution might be would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you so much in advance.

Not all airports have translators! If the officer happens to speak her language then that's a good thing.

Edited June 6, 2012 by Alaskan

[amyandjorge 76]

It would also be helpful to write down in English what language(s) the passenger speaks to expedite the interpreter request.