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What Happens at the Border: Passports, Visas and TechnologyInternational travel is increasingly driven by technology. Travelers are encountering major shifts in how international borders are crossed, including how identities are verified and how electronic devices are screened. Traditional inked passport stamps are being replaced by biometric systems and electronic entry/exit records. Amidst these changes, travelers must continue to ensure they have appropriate documentation to enter their destination country, and that their personal information is treated with care. These systems aim to improve security, reduce wait times, and enhance the traveler experience, but they also raise important questions about privacy, data storage, and transparency. The landscape is changing rapidly and the changes highlight the importance of safeguarding electronic devices and personal data. This may be especially important for non-U.S. citizens, who often face more complex entry and exit requirements for immigration compliance. Regardless of status or destination, every traveler should be informed and prepared. Not only are the risks of technological breaches multiplying, but many countries (including the United States) are expanding and enforcing laws about crossing borders with technology, and having or sharing content on computers or online. Citizens and non-citizens are subject to such laws and need to take precautions and know their rights when re-entering the US, especially depending on the traveler's legal status in the US. Passports and Visas Travelers have to verify entry and visa requirements well before departure and it can be a lengthy process. Passports and/or visas may be essential to enter a foreign country and overlooking the details can lead to a travel delay or denial of entry. The U.S. Department of State’s travel website and the consulate or embassy of the destination country are reliable resources for accurate and up-to-date information. Passport Requirements Before booking a flight, the traveler should check the expiration date on their passport. Many countries require that a passport be valid for at least six months beyond the traveler’s intended return date. Even if a passport has a few months left, some countries may deny entry or boarding if this requirement is not met. It’s also important that the passport has at least one or two blank pages for entry and exit stamps, as this is a requirement in many destinations. As of March 6, 2025, routine passport processing takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks and costs $165. Expedited service is available for an additional $60 to $82, reducing the processing time to about 2 to 3 weeks. Keep in mind that mailing times may add up to 2 weeks before processing begins and another 2 weeks after processing for delivery. Passport renewals cost $130 and may be eligible for online completion. Start the renewal process early to avoid delays. Understanding Visas A visa is an official authorization granted by a country’s government that allows the traveler to enter, stay in, or leave that country for a specific reason and time period. It’s usually stamped or affixed to a passport and often required before travel. The type of visa required depends on the traveler's nationality, destination, the reason for travel, and the length of the visit. Common types include:
Not every country requires a visa. For example, U.S. passport holders can usually enter countries like Japan, much of Europe (Schengen Area), and Mexico without a visa for up to 90 days. In contrast, destinations like India, China, and Brazil typically require advance visas. Some countries offer e-visas that can be obtained online or upon arrival, while others require in-person appointments at embassies or consulates. Visa applications often require more than just a passport, such as: proof of travel (flights, accommodations), financial statements, travel insurance, an invitation letter or sponsor information, and vaccination records or medical documentation. As regulations change frequently, visa and entry requirements can shift with little notice. It’s important to use only official government websites, start the visa research early, and understand how long the visa will take to obtain. In addition to having a valid passport and any required visas, travelers should carry both printed and digital copies of these documents. If a passport or visa is lost or stolen, having a copy can make it much easier to replace. Travelers may also need to show proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, or sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, depending on the entry requirements of the destination.
Crossing Borders and Technology In Transition Inked passport stamps are being phased out in many countries. Instead, immigration systems are increasingly relying on biometric identification such as facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, and iris scans to identify and track travelers. Biometric systems are becoming the global norm. U.S. CBP’s Simplified Arrival uses facial recognition to compare live images of travelers with passport or visa photos. The European Union is rolling out the EES (Entry/Exit System) for non-EU nationals, where facial scans and fingerprints will be collected at every crossing. Similarly, Canada's ArriveCAN platform, Australia's SmartGates, and the UK eGates continue to expand touchless border control, which allow travelers to clear immigration without speaking to an officer at all. Guidance for Traveling with Technology When planning international travel, all travelers need to consider how to securely access and protect information from electronic devices. If the work can be done without a device, do not take it. Best: Travel Light
Good: Travel with Less Data
Minimum: Travel Encrypted If personal devices must be taken:
Protecting Electronic Devices at the Border U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has broad authority to search electronic devices and can inspect phones, laptops, and tablets without a warrant or suspicion for both U.S. citizens and non-citizens. This includes basic searches by manually checking device contents and also advanced searches using external tools to extract or copy data. Before traveling, travelers should assess their personal level of risk based on their immigration status, prior travel history, and the sensitivity of data stored on their devices. There is no universal approach and what may be considered sensitive varies based on personal and professional circumstances. This risk assessment may influence how a traveler prepares their devices for travel, including whether to assert their rights during a CBP search. A U.S. citizen cannot be denied reentry for refusing to unlock a device or provide passwords, but the device may be detained or copied and the traveler may be delayed. A non-citizen refusing cooperation could result in a denial of entry or additional scrutiny. Santa Clara University's Global Engagement Technology Guidance for International Travel webpage offers best practices for securing data before, during, and after international travel, as well as guidance for protecting information while complying with laws and policies. Crossing the Border and Customs When a traveler crosses the U.S. border, they are processed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), regardless of whether they are a U.S. citizen or a foreign visitor. Upon arrival, whether by air, land, or sea, the traveler must present a valid passport and, if applicable, a visa or other immigration documents. The CBP officer will conduct a primary inspection, which typically involves verifying identity, reviewing travel documents, and asking brief questions about the trip, such as its purpose, duration, and items being brought into the country. Travelers are required to declare any goods acquired abroad, especially high-value items, agricultural products, or large amounts of currency (over $10,000 USD). Do not bring restricted/prohibited items into the country, such as: illegal drugs (marijuana), products of endangered species, soil, counterfeit goods, or obscene materials (pornography). If there are no red flags, the traveler is allowed to proceed. However, some individuals are selected for secondary inspection, which involves more detailed questioning and a possible search of baggage or electronic devices. Reasons for secondary inspection may include incomplete documentation, certain travel histories, random selection, or a name that matches a watchlist. Once CBP clears the traveler, they are free to collect any checked luggage and proceed into the country. For most travelers, the process is straightforward, but it’s important to understand that border authorities have broad powers, and procedures may vary depending on the traveler’s status and the current legal or security context. As borders and laws change, travelers must do more than pack a passport: they need to understand the evolving landscape of international mobility. Knowing what to expect, how to prepare, and how to protect personal data can make the difference between a smooth journey and an unexpected delay. Resources Have a question? We are here to help - reach out to us at associateprovostglobal@scu.edu. Key links and resources for university-sponsored international travel:
Atlas is our university-sponsored global travel newsletter to offer guidance and resources for departments and programs in planning and supporting university-sponsored international travel. |
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