What Is 22 CFR 41.32?
22 CFR 41.32 is the section of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) that primarily governs the Border Crossing Card (BCC), which is a specific type of B-1/B-2 visa exclusively for Mexican citizens. The BCC is issued to eligible Mexican nationals who frequently travel to the US for business or tourism and is designed to facilitate easier and faster border crossings.
Key Facts About the Border Crossing Card (BCC)
- The BCC functions as a B-1/B-2 visa but is specifically for Mexican nationals.
- It is valid for up to 10 years, depending on the applicant’s eligibility.
- It allows entry into the US for business, tourism, or medical visits but not for work.
- Holders can stay in the US for up to 30 days if crossing into designated border zones, or up to six months if traveling beyond the border area.
- Travelers must comply with all B-1/B-2 restrictions and cannot engage in unauthorized employment.
Common Issues With the Border Crossing Card (BCC)
Even though the BCC is a convenient travel document, many Mexican nationals face denials, revocations, or entry refusals if CBP officers suspect:
- The applicant does not have strong ties to Mexico and may overstay.
- The traveler has used the BCC improperly (e.g., engaging in unauthorized work).
- The applicant previously violated US immigration laws or overstayed on a prior visit.
- CBP believes the person is not a genuine visitor and intends to live in the US permanently.
How We Have Helped Clients With 22 CFR 41.32 Issues
Case 1: Border Crossing Card Revoked for Suspected Overstay
A Mexican national who frequently visited the US for shopping and tourism had her BCC revoked at a border checkpoint after CBP officers suspected she had previously stayed longer than allowed. She was banned from re-entering the US for five years under INA 212(a)(9)(A).
We filed a legal request with CBP and provided proof that the alleged overstay was a misunderstanding. After several months, the bar was lifted and she was allowed her to obtain a new Border Crossing Card.
Case 2: BCC Denied Due to Previous Unauthorized Work
A Mexican business owner applied for a BCC to visit the US for business meetings, but his application was denied due to previous unauthorized employment when he briefly worked in the US without a work visa.
We helped him apply for a waiver and demonstrated that he now fully understood US immigration laws and had no intent to violate them again. His waiver was approved, and he successfully obtained a new BCC.
Need Help With a Border Crossing Card Issue? Contact Us Today
If your Border Crossing Card was denied, revoked, or canceled, or if you were barred from entry into the US, you may still have legal options to challenge the decision and regain your travel privileges. Call us today at 305-515-0613 or email info@messersmithlaw.com for immediate assistance. Let us help you regain your ability to travel to the US legally and without complications.