Canada Updates Rules for Citizens Traveling to the US – What You Need to Know

Published: 19/05/2025

Are you a Canadian planning a trip to the United States? Big news! Starting April 11, 2025, Canada has new travel rules for citizens staying in the US for 30 days or more. These rules come from a US policy to make borders safer.

Don’t worry. This article explains everything in simple words, so you can travel without stress. Whether you’re a snowbird heading to Florida or a student visiting New York, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s explore what these rules mean, how to follow them, and tips for a fun trip!

What Are the New Rules?

From April 11, 2025, Canadians aged 14 and older staying in the US for 30 days or more must register with the US government. This comes from a US rule signed on January 20, 2025, called “Protecting the American People Against Invasion.” It’s about keeping track of visitors to improve safety.

Here’s the deal:

  • If you fly to the US, you get a form called the I-94 automatically. It tracks when you arrive and leave, so you’re probably registered already.
  • If you drive or walk across the border (like at Windsor, Ontario, or Blaine, Washington), you might need to register yourself using a form called G-325R.
  • If you have a work visa, student visa, or an I-94 from a previous trip, you don’t need to register again.

This rule affects about 2.2 to 3.2 million travelers, including many Canadians, says the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

What Are the New Rules
What Are the New Rules?
Who Needs to Register?

You need to register if:

  • You’re a Canadian citizen, 14 or older, staying in the US for 30 days or more.
  • You’re entering by land (driving or walking) and don’t have an I-94 form.
  • You’re a snowbird (Canadians who spend winters in warm places like Arizona or Florida), as many stay longer than 30 days.

You DON’T need to register if:

  • You fly to the US and get an I-94 automatically.
  • You have a work or student visa.
  • You’re already registered from a recent trip (check your I-94 status to be sure).

Parents must register for kids under 14 if they stay 30 days or more

Why Are These Rules Happening?

The US says these rules keep the country safe by tracking long-term visitors. It’s part of a bigger plan to manage immigration, which also affects people crossing the border illegally. Some Canadians find it annoying, especially snowbirds who visit every year. But others, like US border officials, say it helps make travel safer for everyone.

Canada and the US are close friends, but these rules have caused some tension. The Canadian Snowbird Association is talking to US officials to make the rules easier for Canadians, maybe even get an exemption. There’s also a lawsuit by groups like the American Immigration Council to stop the rule, but it’s still in place for now.

Canadian Passport
Canadian Passport

How to Register? Easy Steps

Registering is simple if you follow these steps:

  1. Check Your I-94 Status: Go to the US Customs and Border Protection website to see if you have an I-94. If you flew to the US, you probably did, so you’re done!
  2. Make a USCIS Account: Visit the US Citizenship and Immigration Services website and create an account. Everyone needs their own account, even kids (parents can manage it).
  3. Fill out Form G-325R: If you don’t have an I-94, complete this form online. It asks for your name, US address, and travel plans.
  4. Download Proof of Registration: After registering, save your USCIS Proof of G-325R Registration from your account. Print it and keep it with you in the US. A digital copy on your phone is okay, but a paper copy is safer.
  5. Update Your Address: If you move to a new place in the US, tell USCIS within 10 days through your account.

Good news: Canadians don’t need to give fingerprints, unlike some other visitors.

What If You Don’t Register?

Not registering can cause big problems:

  • Fines up to $5,000.
  • Up to six months in jail.
  • Maybe both a fine and jail time.
  • You could be detained or sent back to Canada.

US border officers might also check your phone or laptop, so follow the rules to stay safe. “I forgot” won’t help if you get caught!

Why Are Some Canadians Worried?

The rules are new, so some Canadians are nervous. Snowbirds, who make up about one million US visitors each winter, feel the extra step is a hassle. One snowbird, Tom Lee, said, “I’ve gone to Arizona for 20 years, why do I need to register now?” Others worry about border delays or being detained, like a Canadian woman held for a week after crossing from Mexico.

But not everyone is upset. Traveler Lisa Chen from Toronto says, “Registering took 10 minutes online. It’s no big deal if you plan ahead.” The Canadian Snowbird Association is working hard to make the rules simpler, and US officials say the system keeps everyone safer.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

Make your US trip easy with these tips:

  • Fly Instead of Drive: Flying usually means automatic I-94 registration, saving you time. Snowbird Mary Jones from Vancouver says, “Flying to Florida is faster and skips the registration hassle!”
  • Ask for an I-94 at the Border: If you drive, ask the border officer for an I-94. It’s not guaranteed, but it can help you avoid manual registration.
  • Use a Burner Phone: Immigration lawyer Sarah Lee suggests a cheap phone with no personal info. This protects your privacy if officers check your devices.
  • Arrive Early: Get to the airport or border early to clear customs. Land crossings are busier now, so plan for delays.
  • Bring Extra Papers: Carry proof you’ll return to Canada, like a job letter or home documents. This shows you’re not staying forever.
  • Check Updates: Visit Travel.gc.ca for Canada’s latest US travel advice. It says to take “normal safety steps” but warns about registration and device checks.
USA Passport
USA Passport

Special Tips for Certain Travelers

Some groups need extra care:

  • Transgender and Nonbinary Travelers: The US only accepts “M” or “F” on passports, not “X.” If you have an “X” gender marker, contact the US Embassy before your trip.
  • Dual Citizens: If you’re a Canadian and a US citizen, use your Canadian passport to enter Canada and your US passport for the US. This avoids mix-ups. If you’re also a citizen of another country, like Iran, expect extra questions.
  • Parents with Kids: Register for kids under 14 using your USCIS account. Keep their proof of registration with you.
Stay Informed

Rules can change, so keep these websites handy:

Final Thoughts

The new US travel rules might feel like extra work, but they’re easy to follow with a little prep. Check your I-94 status, register if you need to, and carry your proof. Whether you’re relaxing in Florida or studying in California, these steps will keep your trip stress-free. Plan ahead, stay informed, and enjoy your US adventure!

Have you traveled to the US lately? Share your tips in the comments below, or ask us anything—we’re here to help!

Common Questions (FAQ)

Do I need to register if I fly to the US?

Probably not! Flying usually means you get an I-94 automatically. Check your status at i94.cbp.dhs.gov.

Can I use a digital copy of my registration proof?

Yes, but a printed copy is safer in case your phone dies or officers don’t accept it.

What if I’m a dual Canadian-US citizen?

You don’t need to register as a US citizen, but use your US passport when entering the US to avoid issues.

Is there a fee to register?

No, the G-325R form is free to submit online.

Imdad Avatar
Imdad

I'm Imdadullah, a passionate traveler who loves exploring new places, cultures, and adventures. Based in Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan, my journey never stops!

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