AP I-131 for Honeymoon in new Political Landscape

[Buzz15 3]

Hi,

 

With this new president's agenda of cracking down on illegal immigrants, did anybody recently have any issues with obtaining an AP doc for non-specific travel plans during the green card application process?

 

In addition, did anybody get denied and or thoroughly questioned at point of entry into the US even if they did have a valid AP doc?

 

I ask because it was my understanding that it is up to immigration officials at the airport whether or not to accept or deny the AP as it is no guarantee for entry like a green card or citizenship doc.

 

FYI, I'm asking on behalf of my fiancee who is Japanese and our intention is to travel to Italy and Austria for a honeymoon. As of now, it does not seem that any of these countries listed are on the "ban" list but I wanted to get some confirmation from others.

 

Thanks!

[Ben&Zian 4,398]

We didn't put any dates on our AP application (don't intend to use it honestly but applied for it with the packet).

 

Shouldn't be too big of an issue honestly since those countries aren't on the "watch" or "ban" list (don't think  the ban is in affect even right now still), and your fiance, I assume soon spouse, is not a national of any of the "watch/ban" countries....

[kcrb 24]

I know from personal experience, as a USC crossing the border from Mexico into the US, that is has been much more strict since the new administration took over. I don't know how it would apply to you since I'm unfamiliar with your case, but the good news is, your fiancee is from a low fraud country and not on the "ban" list. 

 

Some things I have experienced as a born USC: I've crossed 3 times prior to the Jan 20th and 2 times after. Pre-January 20th, I was just asked my destination and why I was in Mexico. Post-Jan 20th: I have had all of my belongings searched, with CBP asking about each thing in my bag. I was taking an immigration class for school and the book was in my bag, and I was even questioned about that. My birth state is on the east coast, which is what shows on the passport, so they questioned me about why I was so far from home and what I was doing marrying a Mexican. How we met, etc. 

 

I've also had friends who are permanent residents who have struggled to cross as well. One officer told her, "Well we have a new president now so that's not how things work anymore." It has become a lot more hostile, at least at the southern border.

 

I just wanted to try and provide you with some insight, though you might be able to get through fine. Despite the ban not being in place, it seems as if a lot of the CBP agents are empowered because they know they can get away with more. 

[Transborderwife 4,666]

As far as I know matter of Arrabally still stands.

[KierenHby 899]

Travel ban not in effect, technically status quo. Realistically, AP always sends you to Secondary for additional ques, that's about it. 

[Buzz15 3]

thank you all for sharing your stories/ insights. all very helpful.

[meimeiliu 3]

I had no prob obtaining and AP (came within a month) But just like you, I'm considering whether I want to use it or not though I'm not from one of the countries or traveling there.

[Buzz15 3]

4 hours ago, meimeiliu said:

I had no prob obtaining and AP (came within a month) But just like you, I'm considering whether I want to use it or not though I'm not from one of the countries or traveling there.

If you end up using your AP, would you mind reporting your experience? I'd really like to know what you faced so I can share with my soon to be wife.

[meimeiliu 3]

1 hour ago, Buzz15 said:

If you end up using your AP, would you mind reporting your experience? I'd really like to know what you faced so I can share with my soon to be wife.

Sure. But my plan to travel is in June so you wont hear from me until May, unless I have an interview and get my GC before that. My AP is my backup plan so i'm not sure if i'll use it yet. I'm waiting to see, I'll check back with you if anything!

[Buzz15 3]

8 hours ago, meimeiliu said:

Sure. But my plan to travel is in June so you wont hear from me until May, unless I have an interview and get my GC before that. My AP is my backup plan so i'm not sure if i'll use it yet. I'm waiting to see, I'll check back with you if anything!

Thanks. Our travel plans won't likely be until Sept this year so we could definitely use any info up until then. Good luck.