The Tribune

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS

Tribune Staff Reporter

lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMIANS travelling to the United States should brace for heightened border scrutiny, including potential searches of personal electronic devices, according to a new advisory from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The advisory warns that US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers are authorised to inspect mobile phones, laptops, and other electronic devices without a warrant. While travellers are not legally required to unlock their devices or provide passwords, refusal may lead to prolonged questioning, confiscation of devices, or denial of entry.

Travellers are encouraged to remain calm if refused entry and to contact the nearest Bahamian embassy or consulate for assistance.

Additional cautions include awareness of crime risks in tourist areas, the high cost of medical care in the US, and the need to declare all food, plant, and animal products to avoid fines.

The ministry emphasised the importance of complying with US entry requirements and being prepared for potential inspections to ensure a smooth travel experience.

The advisory echoes a similar warning issued by Canada earlier this month. The Canadian government updated its travel advisory to caution that US border agents are authorised to search mobile phones, laptops, and tablets without providing a reason. Travellers may be asked to unlock their devices or provide passwords, and refusal could result in the device being seized, delayed travel, or denial of entry for non-US citizens.

These warnings come as US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported conducting 47,047 electronic device searches during the 2024 fiscal year. Though that figure represents less than 0.01 percent of all international arrivals, rights groups have raised concerns about the expanding scope of such searches and the lack of transparency around how personal data is handled.