What to Say (and Not Say) at Immigration (Simple Answers That Keep Things Smooth)

Immigration questions can feel stressful, especially in a new country. Many travelers worry they might say the wrong thing and cause problems. The truth is, immigration officers are mainly checking three things:

• Why are you visiting

• How long will you stay

• whether you’ll leave on time

Clear, consistent answers make the process smooth.

Here’s what to say and what not to say at immigration.

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What to Say at Immigration

1. State Your Purpose Clearly and Simply

Keep it short and factual.

Examples:

• “Tourism

• “Vacation.”

• “Sightseeing.”

• “Visiting friends.”

• “Business meetings.”

You don’t need long explanations.

2. Give Exact Travel Duration

Know your dates.

Example:

• “10 days.”

• “Two weeks.”

• “Until the 18th.”

Vague answers create follow-ups.

3. Mention Where You’re Staying

Have a clear accommodation answer.

Example:

• “At a hotel in central Paris.”

• “At my friend’s apartment in Tokyo.”

You may be asked for address proof.

4. Answer About Work Honestly

If asked what you do:

Examples:

• “I work in marketing.”

• “I’m a student.”

• “I’m self-employed.”

Keep it factual and consistent with your profile.

5. Stay Calm and Neutral

Your tone matters.

• speak normally

• maintain eye contact

• avoid jokes or sarcasm

Neutral confidence builds trust.

What NOT to Say at Immigration

1. Don’t Say You Might Stay Longer

Avoid:

• “Maybe longer.”

• “I’ll see how it goes.”

• “Depends.”

Officers need certainty.

2. Don’t Mention Work Unless Visa Allows It

Even remote work can be sensitive.

Avoid saying:

• “I’ll work while traveling.”

• “I’m freelancing here.”

If on a tourist visa, your purpose is travel.

3. Don’t Give Different Answers Than Your Documents

Mismatch causes suspicion.

Examples of problems:

• hotel booking, but saying “friend.”

• short visa but saying long stay

• Tourism visa, but saying job search

Consistency is critical.

4. Don’t Overshare Personal Plans

Too much detail can confuse.

Avoid:

• life stories

• long travel plans

• future relocation ideas

Answer only what’s asked.

5. Don’t Joke About Illegal or Sensitive Topics

Even harmless jokes can backfire.

Avoid joking about:

• work

• overstaying

• marriage

• immigration

Immigration counters aren’t casual spaces.

Questions You’ll Most Likely Hear

Typical immigration questions:

• Why are you visiting?

• How long will you stay?

• Where are you staying?

• What do you do?

• Do you have a return ticket?

These are routine, not suspicious.

Simple Formula for Safe Answers

Keep answers:

• short

• factual

• consistent

• calm

That’s all immigration expects.

Final Thought

Immigration questioning feels serious, but it’s usually routine.

When your answers match your documents, and your purpose is clear, the process is quick and smooth.

Confidence comes from preparation, not perfection.