Crossing the U.S. border may not be easy, even when you have a valid visa in hand. Here are some tips to smooth your passage.

The first person you meet on arrival in the United States probably won't offer you a smile or a bubbly drink. A string of questions is more likely what you'll get from the U.S. border protection officer who inspects your passport and documents when you arrive at a border post, whether by air, land, or sea. The officer is looking for information that might prevent you from entering the country.

Border protection officers are trained to be skeptical of everyone. Security is their first concern these days, and you may encounter delays as your name is checked against various computer databases. The officers are also on the lookout for people who might be using a tourist or nonimmigrant visa to gain entry to the United States for a permanent stay. Even if your visa and intentions are valid, if the officer finds a problem or believes you're lying, you can be refused entry at the border and returned to your home country.

Be Prepared for Questions

The more prepared you are when you reach an airport or other border post, the fewer problems you will face. Here are the most likely questions you'll have to answer. However, the officer is free to ask you just about any question he or she can think of.

Why are you visiting the United States? Your answer must be compatible with your visa. If, for example, you have a visitor visa but say that you're coming to find a job, you'll be put on the next flight home. Your answer must also show that you don't plan to violate any U.S. laws.

Where will you be staying? The officer wants to know that you have clear plans for what you will be doing in the United States. If you have no previously arranged places to stay, the officer might question whether you should be allowed in.

Who will you be visiting? Again, the officer is looking to see that you have clear -- and legal -- plans.