Josefine Bagger Sommerlund
U.S. authorities have the right to inspect your phone at the border – even without suspicion.
The Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has updated its travel advisory for the U.S.
This comes in response to an increase in inquiries from Danish travelers and concerns about heightened border control.
The U.S. May Inspect Your Phone at the Border
Travelers entering the United States must accept that, in certain cases, U.S. border agents have the right to inspect the content of mobile phones and other electronic devices – without cause or suspicion.
According to the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this has been standard practice long before January 2025.
Why the Travel Advisory Was Updated
The update comes because “the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has seen the need to highlight and elaborate on parts of the advisory based on a number of inquiries from citizens,” according to an email sent to Ekstra Bladet.
However, there are no changes to actual entry requirements – U.S. rules remain the same as before.
New Highlights in the Advisory: Risk of Denial of Entry
The updated advisory now clearly emphasizes the risk of:
- Being denied entry if you provide false information in your ESTA or visa application
- Being deported if you previously overstayed your visit
- Being turned away due to criminal convictions in the U.S.
Clear Rules for ESTA and Visas
There is now a stronger reminder that ESTA cannot be used for:
- Employment or business
- Academic studies
- Voluntary (unpaid) work
In these cases, a visa is required. According to Ekstra Bladet, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also notes that this information is now more clearly outlined in the updated travel advisory.
Ministry Does Not Clarify Everything
Ekstra Bladet asked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs what specific phone content travelers should avoid.
The ministry declined to comment on that.
However, it was stated that U.S. authorities ultimately decide what is acceptable and whether you are granted entry.
No Cause for Alarm – But Stay Alert
The U.S. travel advisory remains green. This means there is no travel warning, but the Ministry encourages travelers to:
- Use common sense
- Be prepared
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Danish Embassy in Washington are closely monitoring the situation and remain in ongoing dialogue with U.S. authorities, including the embassy in Copenhagen.