What is a deferred inspection?

In certain situations, people who are entering the U.S. are referred to a deferred inspection. This usually happen if a CBP officer cannot make an immediate decision due to a lack of documentation.

If a CBP officer cannot make an immediate decision due to a lack of documentation, then he/she can refer you to a deferred inspection if:

• The CBP officer was not able to verify your identity or nationality,
• The CBP officer determines that you would likely be able to overcome the identified inadmissibility by obtaining a waiver or additional evidence; and
• The CBP officer determines that you not present a national security risk to the United States.

The decision whether or not to defer inspection is in the CBP’s officer discretion.

I was granted a deferred inspection. What should I do?

If you are granted a deferred inspection, then the CBP officer will parole you in the U.S. and you will have to report for completion of the inspection usually within 30 days. You should then bring whatever documents you were missing when entering the U.S. The CBP officer should have given you an Order to Appear – Deferred Inspection explaining what information or documents to bring.

Does Deferred Inspection office also correct errors on my I-94?

Yes. The Deferred inspection office will be able to assist you to correct errors that were made at the time of your entry to the U.S. For example, if your I-94 form indicating an improper non-immigrant category or incorrect expiration date. You should contact the

You can find the list of the deferred inspection sites when you click here. You should contact the office through which you entered the U.S. For example, if you flew to the JFK and you were issued he order to appear for deferred inspection at the JFK, then you should contact that office.