How should CBP officers respond to a traveler alleging asylum or refugee status at the port of entry?

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When a traveler raises asylum or refugee status at the port, officers must connect them with the proper asylum processes rather than treating the moment as a simple border decision. The best approach is to give clear information about how asylum works, explain the steps they can take, and refer them to the appropriate authorities who handle asylum processing (such as USCIS for asylum filings) and the relevant next steps in the process. This ensures the claim is evaluated under the correct legal framework and that the traveler’s rights and protections are respected from the outset. Simply denying entry without guidance, giving only generic information, or telling them to pursue the request after leaving the port would circumvent the required procedures and protections.