We’re so grateful to our friends coming from abroad to celebrate with us in September. We’ve also seen the headlines about travelers facing increased scrutiny at U.S. borders as a result of the current administration’s immigration crackdown, and we know many of you have, too.

While the chances of anything unusual happening at the border remain very low, we wanted to provide as much information as we can about how to prepare and protect yourself.

Visa and ESTA information

Those coming from outside the U.S. should apply for a visa or, if you are a citizen of a country that’s part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program — including Germany, the United Kingdom, and most European Union countries — an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).

ESTA authorizations are valid for stays in the U.S. of up to 90 days, and you should plan to apply at least 72 hours before traveling, although ideally earlier than that to ensure there are no issues. (We’d suggest applying as soon as you can, just to be safe.) The website to apply is here. If you have a previous ESTA that’s still valid but have gotten a new passport since then, keep in mind that you’ll need to apply for a new ESTA to match the new passport.

For those ineligible for the Visa Waiver Program, check the website of the U.S. Embassy in your country for information on the visa application process.

What to bring with you

Like those of us who’ve experienced the joys of German bureaucracy know, the more documentation you have on hand, the better!

Print out copies of your round-trip flights and any information you have about your accommodation while you’re traveling in the U.S., including contact info for any friends you’re staying with. We’ve also mailed a paper wedding invitation to each of you, so make sure to have that on hand in case border agents ask for proof of your purpose in visiting. You can list either or both of us as your local in-country contacts (if you need our address or other contact information, please let one of us know).

Make sure your passport will still be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your trip to the U.S., and carry a copy of your ESTA or visa and any related paperwork.

Tips for digital security

U.S. Customs & Border Protection has the authority to search, copy or even seize electronic devices without a warrant.

Some immigration experts have recommended removing sensitive information or apps from your phone, then redownloading them when you arrive. You can also opt to bring a spare phone with just the information and apps you’ll need on the trip.

Here are a few useful guides to digital security ahead of your trip:

Washington Post: How to lock down your phone if you’re traveling to the U.S.

AP’s One Tech Tip: Locking down your device when crossing borders

City University of New York’s Know Your Rights guide for travel

Freedom of the Press Foundation: Preparing devices for travel through a U.S. border

WhatsApp group

We’ve put together a WhatsApp group for non-U.S. citizens coming from abroad so people can coordinate — you’ll get an invitation from us shortly if you haven’t already. If you have a chance in the days leading up to the wedding, please let us know your flight arrival information and keep us posted so we know you’ve arrived safely.