LAX traveler loses tourist visa after phone check
A Chinese traveler said her 10 year U.S. tourist visa was canceled after a secondary inspection at LAX. Officers reviewed WeChat messages and found past discussions about short term work in the United States.
The traveler said she entered the United States on a tourist visa last year, stayed for more than three months and did a few days of temporary work arranged through a friend. When she returned through Los Angeles International Airport in June, officers questioned her travel plans and her prior stay, then reviewed some WeChat conversations.
CBP determined that the past work was not allowed under a B1/B2 visa, denied her entry and arranged her return to China. The case is a reminder for Southern California visitors and families hosting them that tourist visas do not permit U.S. employment, even for brief or informal jobs.