With increasing political uncertainty and renewed concerns over U.S. immigration enforcement under a possible second Trump administration, many Canadians wonder whether traveling to the United States is still safe. These concerns have been echoed by individuals across the immigration spectrum: U.S. permanent residents, TN visa holders, green card applicants, and Canadian visitors with deep family, employment, and financial ties to the United States.
Here, we address common concerns and explain why, for most lawful travelers, there is no cause for panic.
Canadians With Valid Travel Documents Can Travel With Confidence
Let’s begin with a fundamental reassurance: Canadian citizens and lawful U.S. residents who possess valid travel documents and have not violated immigration or criminal laws should continue to travel to the United States with confidence.
There has been no change in U.S. immigration law that prohibits Canadians or U.S. green card holders from entering the country, nor is there any known policy that broadly targets Canadian travelers. While enforcement practices may shift depending on the administration, the legal framework for entry remains unchanged for those who follow the rules.
Who Is Safe to Travel?
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Canadian citizens with valid passports, whether visiting for business, tourism, or under a work visa such as TN, L1, E, or H-1B
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Lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
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Individuals with no criminal history or prior immigration violations
Common Questions and Concerns: What’s Going on Right Now?
Many Canadian families face uncertainty with planned travel and ongoing immigration matters. Here are specific concerns we’re hearing—and what they mean in practice:
“We have a wedding in Jamaica in May, a volleyball tournament in June, and are thinking of traveling to Mexico. Should we cancel?”
There is currently no legal or policy-based reason to cancel these international trips, provided all family members:
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Hold valid immigration documents
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Do not overstay abroad beyond the time permitted by their status
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Have not accrued immigration violations or criminal issues
For green card holders, international travel should be less than 180 days to avoid complications on reentry. If your trip is longer or part of a pattern of extended absences, consult with an attorney to avoid abandonment concerns.
“I have a TN visa that is valid until September. I’m flying from Toronto to NY. Should I be worried about ICE?”
A Canadian with no criminal record or inadmissibility issues poses no unusual risk for ICE enforcement. With valid TN status, entering the U.S. is entirely lawful. That said, you should carry:
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A valid TN approval or support letter
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Your job offer and proof of employment
Border officers may ask routine questions, but you should not face detention unless something in your record or behavior triggers additional scrutiny.
“Do we need to carry our green cards? I’m afraid we’ll lose them.”
U.S. law requires green card holders always to carry proof of their status. While many choose to keep the original card in a safe place and have a copy, this is a risk-based decision. For air travel or international trips, the physical green card is required. Consider using a protective sleeve or secure document wallet rather than leaving it behind.
Current Processing and Policy Issues
“I was wondering if layoffs or changes in the administration have delayed my citizenship case?”
Processing times for naturalization and other immigration benefits can fluctuate, especially during administrative transitions or when agencies face staffing shortages. While some delays may occur, there is no freeze on citizenship processing, and pending applications will continue to be reviewed in the order received.
“Are we required to register with USCIS?”
Maybe. Canadian citizens entering the U.S. on TN, visitor, or other nonimmigrant status are not required to register with USCIS. There is no mandatory immigration registration system for Canadians unless they stay for 30 days or more. If you are Canadian, you are required to complete USCIS Form G-325R if the following applies:
- You are not a U.S. permanent resident or traveling on a valid visa.
- You were not issued an I-94 record of admission
- You will be in the United States for 30 or more days consecutively
“Should I check my I-94 history?”
Yes—particularly if you’ve made multiple entries into the U.S. over the years. Go to CBP’s I-94 website and review:
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Your most recent entry
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Admission class and expiration date
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Past travel history, to identify any inadvertent overstays or incorrect entries
If there is an error, it’s best to correct it promptly with CBP through deferred inspection.
U.S. Property Ownership
“I own property in Florida. Is that a problem?”
No. Foreign nationals are permitted to own property in the U.S., and this does not negatively affect your immigration status. However, ensure your tax reporting is current and compliant, especially if you generate income from the property or reside there for part of the year.
Practical Tips for Peace of Mind
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Carry copies of all important documents, including passports, green cards, visas, TN letters, and I-94 records.
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Have originals when traveling internationally—copies are not a substitute for border inspection.
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Keep travel under 6 months for green card holders to preserve continuous residence.
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Check your I-94 after every entry to ensure your admission was properly recorded.
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Avoid controversial or potentially provocative material on your phone when crossing the border—not because it’s unlawful, but because it may raise questions.
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Consult an immigration attorney if you’ve had prior issues, are adjusting status, or are entering under a complex situation.
Final Thoughts
There is no denying that political rhetoric can heighten public anxiety around immigration, but fear should not drive legal decision-making. Canadians who comply with U.S. immigration law and possess valid travel documents have the legal right to enter, reside, and return to the United States. If you are unsure about your current status, travel history, or risk factors, proactive legal guidance is the best defense against uncertainty.
Our firm focuses exclusively on U.S. immigration matters for Canadians and cross-border families. Whether you’re concerned about international travel, employment-based immigration, green card maintenance, or long-term planning, we’re here to help you make informed, confident decisions.
Schedule a consultation today to discuss your situation and secure peace of mind.
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We Can Help!
You may have questions regarding a U.S. immigration matter. We invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people work and live in the United States. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
JEREMY L. RICHARDS is the founding partner of Richards and Jurusik and has dedicated his career to U.S. immigration law, with a specialized focus on assisting Canadian and Mexican citizens under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to work and live in the United States. (Full Bio)
