Snowbirds are heading to the U.S. border to escape the harsh Canadian winter, but many are facing a new registration requirement. This rule, implemented in April during the Trump administration, mandates that Canadians staying over 29 days must register with the U.S. government. Despite its apparent simplicity, the regulation is intricate, with not all long-term travelers needing to register. Additionally, there are various methods to complete the registration process.
Complicating matters further, there is no centralized U.S. government website outlining registration options for travelers. Those who choose to register at the border can expect to be photographed, fingerprinted, and charged $30 US. Len Saunders, a U.S. immigration lawyer in Blaine, Wash., near the border, expressed frustration, stating that the rollout lacks common sense and causes confusion among Canadians seeking clarity on the new rule.
To address the confusion, here’s a breakdown of the registration options based on information compiled by CBC News:
Option 1: Register at the border
Air passengers are usually exempt from registration as they receive an I-94 electronic arrival record. However, land border travelers often do not receive this document. To check if they automatically received an I-94, travelers can visit the U.S. Customs and Border webpage. If not issued automatically, they can pre-apply online within seven days of entry or complete the process at the border. Regardless of the method chosen, travelers will undergo fingerprinting, photography, and a $30 US processing fee.
Some snowbirds who opted to register at the border reported being offered the choice, while others, like Brenda Paige from Calgary, were instructed to undergo the process without an option. Border officers exercise discretion in handling long-term travelers, with Saunders suggesting that most officers may allow entry without registration due to logistical constraints.
Option 2: Register in the U.S.
Snowbirds without an I-94 should still register to avoid potential fines or legal consequences. Completing the USCIS G-325R form online while in the U.S. fulfills the registration requirement. The form, though detailed, only requires completion of specified sections and does not entail any fees or fingerprinting for Canadians.
Snowbirds who temporarily leave the U.S. during their stay should be aware that the G-325R form becomes invalid upon reentry if staying over 29 days. Travelers returning by plane should receive a new I-94 automatically. Nexus card holders face confusion regarding exemption from the registration requirement, with conflicting information from CBP on their status.
Facial biometrics technology, set to be enforced starting December 26, will require Canadians to be photographed when entering and exiting the U.S. at certain checkpoints. This rule is distinct from the registration process, with full implementation at land borders expected next year.
In summary, the new U.S. registration requirement poses challenges for Canadian snowbirds, emphasizing the importance of understanding the rules and procedures to ensure a smooth travel experience.
