A shocking incident involving two young German tourists has made headlines worldwide, and it’s a wake-up call for Australians traveling to the US.
The two 19 and 18-year-old girls, Charlotte Pohl and Maria Lepere, were detained in Honolulu, Hawaii, after being denied entry to the country.
Their experience is a stark reminder that no one is immune to the strict border control measures in place in the US.
What Happened to the German Tourists?
The two girls had been backpacking in Thailand and New Zealand before arriving in Hawaii.
However, their dream trip quickly turned into a nightmare when they were questioned by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials.
The officials were suspicious that the girls hadn’t booked hotels for their entire stay, and they claimed that the interrogation transcripts contained words they never said.
The CBP alleged that the girls intended to work in the US, which is prohibited on a visitor visa and under the Visa Waiver Program.
The Harsh Reality of Being Denied Entry to the US
Melissa Vincenty, a US immigration lawyer and Australian migration agent, describes the experience of being denied entry to the US as “extreme” and “horrific.”
According to her, being taken to a federal prison with no criminal record, no drugs, or anything that poses a danger to society is a harsh reality that many travelers may face.
Vincenty warns that Australians should not assume they are safe from “enhanced vetting” at the border and should be prepared for the worst.
The Risk of Being Held in Detention Facilities
Vincenty explains that in Hawaii, there is no separate immigration facility, so people who are denied entry are taken to the Federal Detention Center, where they may be held alongside those awaiting trial or who have been convicted of serious federal crimes.
This can be a traumatic experience, especially for young travelers. Vincenty warns that Australians who are denied entry to the US in other locations like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Dallas may also be held in detention facilities until the next available flight home, which can be a long and stressful wait.
The Importance of Having the Correct Paperwork
Vincenty stresses that it’s crucial for Australians traveling to the US to have the correct paperwork and to understand what they can and can’t do.
She warns that trying to “get around” the rules can have serious consequences and advises travelers to wait for the right visa if they plan to work.
With the current US administration, it’s more important than ever to be cautious and to understand the parameters of what is allowed.
Is Your Travel to the US Absolutely Essential?
Dr. Lee Morgenbesser, an associate professor in comparative politics at Griffith University, advises Australians to ask themselves whether their travel to the US is absolutely essential.
He personally cancelled a business trip to the US due to concerns about the current administration and the potential risks involved.
With the increased scrutiny at the border, it’s essential to be mindful of what you say online and to be prepared for any eventuality.