V-Flyer

I am flying to Miami in UC on VS05 on Wednesday. I have a seat reserved in the nose just a couple of rows back. Is this preferable to upstairs? And on the way back when I may want to sleep?
And can anyone tell me what secondary screening is once I arrive in Miami and how do I avoid it?

Ford wrote:And can anyone tell me what secondary screening is once I arrive in Miami and how do I avoid it?

Secondary Screening at immigration is where you have a more in depth "conversation" (euphemism alert) with a CBP agent about why you want to visit the USA, what you are going to do on your visit and how much money you have available to you etc.

There is nothing you can do to avoid it. If you have been chosen you have been chosen.

If you are chosen (do you have reason to believe you might be?) then answer all questions honestly and consistently and politely. Don't offer more information than is requested.

I have only had secondary screening once and that was in Canada and the secondary screener actually apologised to me because after the first could of questions he could see no reason why the initial entry officer had chosen me.

might get your fingerprints taken as well

I've had fingerprints taken before - usually on a new ESTA. I don't think it's that uncommon.

I have always had my fingerprints taken on arrival in Las Vegas, I think everyone does! I just thought it was standard for the USA

Ford - AFAIK secondary immigration screening only happens if you're deemed "of interest" by US CBP (eg you declare a conviction, you're unlucky enough to share a name with someone on their watch list or they have reason to believe you've previously overstayed). If that's the case, as others have said there's no avoiding it - you'll be hauled off to a separate room and questioned. But it's pretty unusual and something would have to trigger it.

There is also secondary security screening which is entirely different. On all US flights a certain quota of passengers will be selected for it, usually in the gate area before boarding. If you're selected expect to have your hand luggage thoroughly searched but it's a relatively minor inconvenience that shouldn't delay you. Again, no way of avoiding it - your boarding pass may show SSSS if you've been chosen.