Why could a B1/B2 visa holder skip the line at US immigration?
When I recently arrived in New York (JFK) from Europe there was a line at the immigration that looked 3-4 hours long. At the beginning of the line an agent had a look at my passport (I am a Russian citizen with B1/B2 visitor visa) and directed me to a machine where I scanned the passport and my fingerprints. After that, they directed me straight to a border officer and a few minutes later I was already on the AirTrain to Howard Beach.
This would be the end of the story were I less curious... but why? I can't think of any reason that would set me apart from everyone who went into the long line. It is not citizenship: I saw a lot of different passports in the long line, including Russian ones (and I'd expect that Russians face on average more scrutiny, not less).
Best Answer
B1/B2 visa holders (along with D visa, VWP travelers, US citizens, US permanent residents, Canadian citizens) can use APC kiosks as documented on https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/apc
Pictures about "Why could a B1/B2 visa holder skip the line at US immigration?"
Can I cross the border with a B1 B2 visa?
B1/B2 visa/Border Crossing Cards are only issued to applicants who are citizens of and resident in Mexico. Applicants must meet the eligibility standards for B1/B2 visas. They must demonstrate that they have ties to Mexico that would compel them to return after a temporary stay in the United States.Can B1 B2 travel to USA?
If you have a B1/B2 visa, you can visit the United States whenever you want to \u2013 as long as your passport is valid. The B visa is a multiple entry visa, which means you can use it to enter the United States more than once.What do they check in US port of entry?
The airport you arrive at is a Port of "Entry" where CBP officers are responsible for verifying the entry and exit of visitors. You must always hand-carry all important documents such as your passport, tickets, IDs and comply with the rules and regulations to minimize delays at the port of entry.How many days can a person stay in USA in B1 status?
The maximum amount of time issued for a B1/B2 visa is 180 days. This visa allows for multiple entries into the United States.B1 Visa Requirements: The 4 You Should Know
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Charles Parker, Andreea Ch, Feng Zou, Tim Samuel