HONOLULU (KHON2) — First world countries are warning their citizens not to travel to the United States unless absolutely necessary.
From students being abducted on city streets by hooded groups of people to young students being pulled from schools and legal residents being sent to third-party prisons oversees, coming the U.S. is becoming a gamble that many are not willing to risk.
This will have the greatest impact on places that rely heavily on tourism, like Hawaii. With little investment in other forms of revenue, Hawaii may end up in a dire situation when tourists decide to forgo their tropical dreams of Hawaii to travel to safer destinations.
Thus far, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Denmark, Finland, France, Ireland, the Netherlands and Norway have all issued travel warnings.
KHON2.com did a bit of digging to find the 10 things foreign tourists need to know when traveling to Hawaiʻi.
1. Ensure you have proper documentation
Make sure you carry all necessary travel documents. This includes a valid passport, your visa (if needed) and any supporting materials that explain the purpose of your visit, such as hotel bookings or return tickets.
2. Understand visa requirements
Know the specific requirements for your visa category, if you are visiting on a visa. Overstaying your visa or violating its terms can lead to serious consequences. These consequences can include detention or deportation.
3. Be prepared for increased scrutiny
When you enter through Hawaii’s border control, U.S. immigration officials are currently conducting more detailed checks; so, visitors will need to expect to answer questions about your travel plans, where you’ll stay and how long you intend to be in the country.
4. Exercise caution with personal communications
Be mindful of what’s on your electronic devices, text messaging and social media because border control agents, ICE and/or the FBI may go through your content. In some of these cases, foreign travelers have been detained for hours, days and weeks because their devices contained content considered critical of U.S. domestic and foreign policies or government officials. Review your online communications before traveling to avoid any issues.
5. Stay informed on travel advisories
Regularly check travel advisories and warnings from your home country. Keep up to date with changes in U.S. immigration policies that might affect your trip.
6. Know your rights
Familiarize yourself with your rights as an international traveler. If detained, you are entitled to seek legal advice and contact your country’s embassy or consulate for assistance, although this has not necessarily been the case with some individuals caught up in mass deportations in recent weeks.
7. Be honest with authorities
Always provide truthful answers to immigration officers about your travel plans, job prospects/responsibilities and intentions. Lying or providing false information can lead to immediate detention or denial of entry.
8. Avoid carrying restricted items
Certain items, such as agricultural products, illegal drugs (including cannabis, even if legal in Hawaiʻi) or other restricted goods, can cause delays or detention at the border. Make sure you’re not carrying anything prohibited on your person or in your luggage.
9. Prepare for possible delays
Immigration enforcement actions can sometimes cause long delays. Stay patient and remember that disruptions can cause you to be singled out for questioning.
10. Have emergency contacts ready
Always have your consulate’s contact information on hand in case of an emergency. If possible, be sure to have the contact information for an immigration or civil/human rights attorney. This will help if you face any issues or legal complications during your stay.
In short, while it’s safe to visit Hawaiʻi, foreign tourists should be aware of these important rules and stay prepared for additional checks. Enjoy your trip but be vigilant and know your rights!