Important Update for Canadians Traveling to the U.S.: New Registration Requirements for Stays Over 30 Days

Important Update for Canadians Traveling to the U.S.: New Registration Requirements for Stays Over 30 Days

Canadians planning to spend more than 30 days in the United States should be aware of significant changes to U.S. immigration rules that could impact their travel. Starting April 11, 2025, travelers staying longer than 30 days will need to register with the U.S. government to comply with the new policy under the Trump administration.

This new requirement, detailed in the Alien Registration Requirement, mandates that Canadian visitors create an account with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), submit personal details such as their phone number, date of birth, family information, criminal records, and immigration history, and undergo a background check with fingerprinting.

Why the Change?

This initiative is part of an ongoing effort to tighten U.S. immigration controls, and it follows a broader trend in the Trump administration’s focus on national security and stricter immigration enforcement. The goal of this measure is to track foreign nationals in the U.S. who remain beyond the typical tourist or business visa period, ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration laws.

Key Details on the New Travel Policy

• Who needs to register? Canadians and other foreign nationals staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days will need to register with USCIS, submit fingerprints, and provide detailed personal information as part of the process.

• What information is required? Travelers will need to provide their name, contact details, family information, criminal history, and prior immigration details. This will help ensure that the U.S. can accurately track foreign nationals who are staying longer than 30 days.

• What happens if you don’t comply? Failure to comply with the registration requirements could result in significant penalties, including fines and potential misdemeanor charges. It’s crucial for travelers to adhere to the rules to avoid disruptions or legal consequences.

The Impact on Canadian Snowbirds

For Canadian snowbirds—those who typically spend extended periods in warmer U.S. states during the winter months—this new policy is especially significant. The Canadian Snowbird Association estimates that about 1 million Canadians travel to the U.S. each year to escape the cold. Many of them spend longer than 30 days in the U.S., meaning they’ll need to register under this new rule.

Canadian snowbirds should act quickly to familiarize themselves with the registration process. They can avoid penalties and ensure their travels remain uninterrupted by taking the necessary steps to comply.

How to Register

• Create an online account: Travelers should create an account with USCIS as soon as possible, especially if they plan to stay in the U.S. for more than 30 days. This account will be used for submitting the required personal information and scheduling the fingerprinting process.

• Complete registration before 30 days: Ensure that registration is completed before the 30-day mark to avoid penalties. Even if you entered the U.S. without a form I-94, you can still register through USCIS.

• Monitor USCIS updates: Keep an eye on the USCIS website, as the agency will be releasing more detailed instructions for Canadian travelers. The process is expected to evolve, and it’s important to stay informed.

What This Means for Canadian Travelers

While the new rule may seem like an added step for Canadian travelers, especially for snowbirds, it’s important to comply to avoid any legal or financial consequences. The U.S. government has made it clear that failure to register will not be tolerated, and penalties for non-compliance will be severe.

Keeping Track of Changes

The Canadian government has acknowledged the policy changes and is advising travelers to stay informed. It’s crucial for Canadians to be aware of evolving regulations to ensure they comply with U.S. immigration laws. Keep checking official government and USCIS websites for updates and detailed instructions.

In Conclusion

Traveling to the U.S. for more than 30 days is a significant commitment, and the new registration requirement means Canadian travelers need to take action to ensure they are compliant with U.S. immigration laws. From snowbirds to those visiting family, anyone planning an extended stay should be aware of this change to avoid penalties. Luxuria Elite Travel Agency recommends all travelers stay updated and, when in doubt, reach out to immigration experts or consult the USCIS for specific guidance.

For more travel tips and updates on this new U.S. travel policy, be sure to follow our blog. We are here to keep you informed so you can enjoy your travels stress-free!