katieflossom
Difficulty:  | Review Topic: Port of Entry Review
All in all the experience was fine. Flew in on a very quiet Tuesday early-evening (I'd highly recommend!) and raced off the plane to get to the immigration line first. Was called up to a window like usual and had my big envelope, passport and usual customs form in hand. When I approached the window I said "I'm entering as a new resident today" and the POE officer said ok and that he'd need my envelope, so I passed it over with my passport and customs form. He took my fingerprints and photo (like usual) and then asked me 2 questions - if I had on me over $10,000 in cash, And, if I was carrying any food. He led me through to the little side room which looks just like a waiting room, and said Office Something (can;t remember his name) would call me up by name (saying, that I was the only one in there at that time. When I left two other guys had come in after. I guess it can be quite busy at certain times.)
The guy came in shortly after and opened my big envelope and I could see from where I was sat it was my birth cert, marriage cert, police cert, passport pics, etc) He shouted over (like I say, was the only one there) to confirm my address, which I did. Then he did a bit more typing. Called me up and I had to sign twice, and also do a proper ink-y fingerprint twice. He asked for a USA phone no from me in case of any probs. He said my greencard could take up to 6 months and explained the stamp in my passport meant I could go in and out of the US if needs be. Then he said I was all set and said the words I've been waiting to hear "Welcome to America"! I left to get my luggage with a massive bounce in my step!
The whole process was official but not scary or intimidating. Just makes sure you don't carry food on you, I got asked that about 3 times just leaving the airport.
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Port of Entry Member Review #15792
Entry Date: 2014-12-02