U.S. Visa Holders: Why Entry Can Be Denied During Holidays

Laredo, Texas — With the start of the 2025 winter holidays just weeks away, while some families are planning Christmas and New Year’s dinners, others are preparing luggage and documents to travel to the United States.

Even with a valid U.S. tourist visa, that document does not guarantee a person’s entry into the United States: the final decision always rests with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Currently, the U.S. visa application process typically takes between 6 and 12 months. Meanwhile, the Donald Trump administration is working on an express visa plan for the FIFA 2026 World Cup.

To avoid setbacks, here are some recommendations for traveling to the U.S. during the December holidays.

Why Can CBP Deny Entry to a Person with a Valid U.S. Visa?

Immigration officers can refuse admission if they believe the traveler does not meet the conditions of the U.S. visa or if they detect inconsistencies during the interview.

Among the most common reasons for denial of entry to the U.S. are:

• Suspicion of intent to reside in the U.S.: If the officer believes your goal is to stay, even if you are traveling with a tourist or business visa, entry will be denied.
• Inconsistent information: When what you say at the border contradicts what you declared when applying for your visa, especially if it is your first entry.
• Lack of ties to Mexico: Not demonstrating employment, family, studies, or property that prove you will return to your country.
• Previous violations or immigration alerts: Any prior record can trigger a deeper review or immediate denial.

How to Prepare for the U.S. Entry Interview

The main recommendations are:

• Carry supporting documents: This includes reservations, employment letters, flight tickets.
• Be clear and coherent when explaining your itinerary.
• Answer only what is asked and avoid unnecessary elaboration.

What Documents Are Essential for Your Trip?

Every traveler—pedestrian, by car, or by plane—must carry valid documentation:

• Valid Mexican passport for the duration of your stay.
• B1/B2 visa or other applicable visa.
• I-94 permit, which marks the authorized period of stay in the U.S. and is recommended to be processed between 3 and 7 days before your trip on the official CBP website.

Keep in mind that CBP can request inspection of cell phones and electronic devices without a court order. This inspection includes basic or advanced searches, as well as requests for access codes or biometrics.

If you are not a U.S. citizen or resident and refuse, you can be denied and deemed inadmissible. The extracted information can be stored for up to 15 years.

Some files from your digital devices could be accidentally deleted during the inspection, so it is important to take precautions.

Recommendations to Protect Your Information

• Make a full backup before traveling.
• Delete photos, conversations, or sensitive files that could be misinterpreted.
• If your device is retained, request a property receipt, with the officer’s name and badge number.