A Chinese national traveling on a B-1/B-2 tourist visa was denied entry to the United States at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in June after U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers examined her WeChat messages and found evidence of unauthorized work during a prior stay. Her 10-year multiple-entry visa was revoked on the spot, and she was placed on a return flight to China.
The traveler, who had first entered the U.S. via San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in 2024, admitted during secondary inspection that she had accepted temporary work arranged by a friend during that visit. The job, which involved home care assistance, lasted only a few days and was intended to earn pocket money. She told officers she was aware that tourist visa holders are prohibited from working but did not believe such a short stint would cause problems.
According to CBP, the woman’s initial entry had been uneventful, with minimal questioning. She stayed in the U.S. for approximately three months before returning to China. However, when she attempted re-entry this year, officers at LAX referred her to secondary inspection, where they requested access to her mobile phone and WeChat account. She complied, and officers found conversations detailing work arrangements with friends and a temporary employer from her previous stay.
Digital Evidence and Border Enforcement
This case is a stark reminder that CBP officers have broad authority to search electronic devices at ports of entry. While the agency states that such searches are conducted on a case-by-case basis and are not routine, they are increasingly common in secondary inspections. In fiscal year 2025, CBP processed over 419 million travelers at U.S. ports of entry, with approximately 3% referred for secondary inspection.
The incident also highlights the risks for travelers who may inadvertently violate visa terms. As Thailand keeps visa-free entry for Indians, easing industry concerns over demand dips, the U.S. maintains strict enforcement of visa conditions. Travel professionals, including tour operators and travel agents, should advise clients on the importance of adhering to visa restrictions, especially regarding employment.
The woman’s experience is not isolated. CBP has previously used social media and messaging app content to deny entry or revoke visas for individuals found to have misrepresented their intentions or engaged in prohibited activities. The agency’s authority to search devices has been upheld in court, though privacy advocates continue to challenge its scope.
For the travel industry, this case underscores the need for clear communication with clients about the consequences of unauthorized work. As UK travelers shift to last-minute bookings amid economic pressures, the importance of compliance with visa terms remains constant. Travel agents and tour operators should ensure that clients understand that even casual, unpaid work can lead to visa revocation and denial of entry.
The woman’s visa was revoked, and she was refused admission. CBP arranged for her return to China. She has not commented on whether she plans to reapply for a visa in the future.
