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A relative of mine is working for United airlines and recently added me to his buddy list. Now I'm able to fly non-revenue stand by with United airlines.
I will soon try my chances to fly from Europe to the United States.
I have a Bulgarian passport with an American B1/B2 Visa. Considering there's plenty of room in the plane, will I be allowed to board and be admitted to the USA without a return ticket?
I intend to fly stand by in my return flight as well.

Traveller
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André
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1 Answers1

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Officially, someone entering the US using a B1/B2 visa is not required to hold a return ticket (as opposed to someone entering via the Visa Waiver Program where one is legally required).

However, as with all entries to the US, your entry is at the discretion of the immigration officials at the border. In particular, they will be attempting to determine if you are a genuine tourist, and that you will depart the US within your allowed entry period. Not having a return ticket makes it a little more difficult to show that you do intent to leave within the allowed time period. Having proof that you are able to travel on a standby ticket will certainly help here, but still isn't as good as a return ticket.

It's impossible to say how likely this is to be a problem without knowing your exact situation. A history of travel to the US (and departing on time!) will help, as will a history of travel to other countries. Having ties to your country of residence will also help (eg, owning/renting a home, having a job, etc). The more proof you can take to show that you will leave the US after a short period, the better. It's very possible you will not be asked for such proof - but if you are then having it readily available will help speed things up.

Doc
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