At Immigration – Answering Officer Questions
Welcome to Hello English! Passing through US immigration can feel stressful—but knowing how to answer common officer questions in English will help you stay calm and confident. This lesson gives you a realistic conversation and essential vocabulary for one of the most important moments of international travel.
Watch this short, realistic conversation between a traveler and a US Customs and Border Protection officer. Perfect for listening practice!
Immigration Conversation
Characters:
• Anya – the traveler
• Officer Reed – the immigration officer
Officer Reed: Passport, please.
Anya: Here you go.
Officer Reed: What’s the purpose of your visit?
Anya: Tourism. I’m visiting for two weeks.
Officer Reed: Where will you be staying?
Anya: At a hotel in downtown Chicago.
Officer Reed: Do you have a return ticket?
Anya: Yes, I’m flying back on June 15.
Officer Reed: How long have you been in the US before?
Anya: Never—I’m here for the first time.
Officer Reed: Alright. Welcome to the United States.
Anya: Thank you!
Officer Reed: Enjoy your stay.
Anya: I will!
Officer Reed: Next!
💡 This dialogue is perfect for audio or video practice! It mirrors a real US immigration checkpoint—short, direct, and focused on key travel facts. Every line uses clear, slow-paced US English that’s easy for beginners to understand and repeat.
Essential Immigration Vocabulary
Learn these key terms to answer confidently:
- Passport – your official travel ID
- Purpose of visit – why you’re traveling (tourism, business, study)
- Return ticket – proof you’re leaving the country
- Staying – where you’ll sleep (hotel, friend’s house)
- Customs – the area where you declare items
- First time – you’ve never visited before
- Welcome to the United States – the phrase that means you’re cleared!
Other Useful Phrases
- “I’m here for business.”
- “I’ll be staying with a friend.”
- “I have my hotel reservation.”
- “This is my first time in the US.”
Practice Tip
Practice saying “What’s the purpose of your visit?” and “I’m here for tourism”—these are the two most common questions at US immigration!
Why This Matters
Whether you’re:
• Flying to the US for vacation or family
• Entering on a student or work visa
• Preparing for your first international trip
…this conversation helps you clear immigration smoothly and confidently.
Now you’re ready to answer US immigration questions in English—clearly and politely! Bookmark this guide, or try our interactive quiz to test your travel vocabulary.
Safe travels and welcome to the USA! 🛂
