What exactly can US immigration search or ask me to do to enter the US
There's a discussion on the (probably soon to be vanished) comments on this question about what US immigration can and cannot do. Is it possible to get a definitive answer on this?
I assume they can search me and all my stuff, but can they make me turn on electronics? If so can they make me provide my password or insist I login myself? Decrypt any encrypted files or drives?
How far can they search? Are they allowed to use tools that attempt to find deleted files or extract search history from cookies or other 'computer forensic investigation' type approaches?
If I'm travelling with my work laptop there's a banner when you login saying that use by a non-employee is a criminal offence -- are they immune from prosecution under that?
On a separate note if I have to provide a password that gives them access to more than just the laptop. If it's my work one they can gain access to the work network and associated websites, if it's my personal one they get my Microsoft login (and e-mail, cloud files, etc) as it's Windows 10 and tied to the account.
I tend to assume that any refusal on my part will lead to a denial of entry, but taken to the extreme that seems like they can ask anything ("do a little dance and we'll think about it") it seems like there must be some sort of limit. I guess it's a separate question to ask what someone should do during the interview if they think the immigration officer is crossing the line.
EDIT: To be clear, I'm not a US citizen and I'm asking for information relating to non-citizens (who have the appropriate paperwork, or whatever, to enter the country).
Pictures about "What exactly can US immigration search or ask me to do to enter the US"
What questions do US Immigration ask?
Be Prepared for Questions From CBP Officials- Why are you visiting the United States? ...
- Where will you be staying? ...
- Who will you be visiting? ...
- How long will you be staying? ...
- How much money do you have available for this trip? ...
- Have you visited the United States before, and if so, how long did you stay?
What must you request to enter the United States?
All travelers entering the United States from all other countries need a passport upon arrival (regardless of their country of citizenship). Permanent residents and foreign nationals may also need a U.S. visa. You must apply for a visa before you start your trip.What documents do they ask for at the border?
U.S. citizens may present a valid U.S. passport; Passport Card; enhanced driver's license; Trusted Traveler Program card (SENTRI or Global Entry); U.S. military identification card when traveling on official orders; U.S. Merchant Mariner document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business; or Form I- ...Does immigration look at your text messages?
If you are at U.S. port of entry or under investigation DHS may be able to view your phone calls and text messages. DHS also views your social media information.Five Mistakes NOT to Make at your Immigration Interview
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: William Fortunato, Samson Katt, William Fortunato, Charles Parker