Every winter, many Canadians head south for warmer weather and spend extended periods in the U.S. as “snowbirds.” While enjoying the sun, it’s important to be aware that there is a registration requirement under U.S. immigration law for non‑citizens who remain in the U.S. for 30 days or longer. This blog explains how that rule applies specifically to Canadians and what you may need to do.
Immigration: Tracking Your Time in the U.S.
Canadians can visit the U.S. without a visa for up to six months (generally 182 days) per calendar year for tourism or temporary business. However, staying longer—or making frequent extended visits—can raise concerns about whether you are truly a temporary visitor.
Key Immigration Considerations:
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No registration required, but border officers track your entries and exits via your passport and I-94 history.
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Frequent or long visits can result in questioning or even denial of entry if it appears you’re living in the U.S. without status.
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Bringing belongings, purchasing property, or using a U.S. mailing address can trigger additional scrutiny.
Tip: Track your days carefully. While there’s no formal immigration registration for snowbirds, consistency and transparency are key when re-entering the U.S.
Understanding the Alien Registration Requirement & Form G‑325R
On April 11, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) began enforcing the alien registration requirement under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) for many foreign nationals. Federal Register+2USCIS+2
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Non‑U.S. citizens age 14 or older who remain in the U.S. for 30 days or longer and who were not already registered/fingerprinted must file Form G‑325R, “Biographic Information (Registration).” USCIS+2employmentlawworldview.com+2
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For Canadians, those who entered the U.S. and did not receive an I‑94 (Arrival‑Departure Record) for that stay may fall into the group needing to register. Federal Register+1
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If you already have registration (for example via an I‑94, green card, or previous fingerprinting) you likely do not need to file again. Immigrant Legal Resource Center+1
For more detail, see the resources from Richards & Jurusik Immigration Law: “Alien Registration Requirement: Form G‑325R Explained” and “How Long Can Canadians Stay in the U.S. Without an I‑94?” in their U.S. Immigration for Canadians blog. rjimmigrationlaw.com
What This Means for Canadian Snowbirds
As a Canadian spending time in the U.S., here’s how the rule may affect you:
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If you enter the U.S. and are issued an I‑94 (for example at a land entry or airport) for your stay, that usually qualifies as registration and you may not need to file Form G‑325R. Federal Register+1
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If you entered Canada‑U.S. and did not get an I‑94 (for example through certain land ports) and you expect to stay 30 days or more, you may be required to file Form G‑325R.
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The registration requirement does not grant a visa or status — it simply is a compliance duty. Immigrant Legal Resource Center
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If you are unsure whether you’re already considered registered, it’s wise to consult an immigration attorney or review your entry documentation.
Key Points to Consider
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Make sure you cover your entries/exits: if you stay 30 + days in one visit without I‑94, review registration obligation.
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If you do not need to register, keep documentation of your entry (passport stamps, I‑94, etc.).
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If you must register: create your USCIS online account and file Form G‑325R. Ensure you understand any biometric/fingerprint requirement. rnlawgroup.com+1
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Failure to comply with registration when required could bring civil or criminal penalties. Baker Donelson
Conclusion
While Canadian snowbirds generally do not need to “register” simply because they are visiting the U.S., the new Form G‑325R requirement means that if you stay 30 days or more and do not have adequate registration (like an I‑94), you may need to act. Staying informed and organised helps you avoid surprises and maintain a smooth, enjoyable extended stay in the U.S. If you’d like help reviewing your entry record, confirming your registration status, or understanding whether you need to file Form G‑325R, our team is here to support you.
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
We Can Help!
If you have questions regarding an 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 to work and live in the United States. Please read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
