A new U.S. executive order is changing border requirements for foreign nationals, including Canadians. While the rule introduces stricter registration requirements, Canadians will not be required to provide fingerprints. However, those staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days must register with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to avoid penalties.
Here’s what travelers need to know about the new regulation, who it affects, and how it may impact Canadian snowbirds.
Who Is Affected, and When Does It Start?
The new rule applies to all foreign nationals who remain in the U.S. for more than 30 days. These travelers must register and provide proof of compliance. The rule takes effect on April 11 and is expected to impact millions of visitors.
For Canadians, this means:
- Those staying under 30 days are not affected
- Those staying beyond 30 days must register through the USCIS Alien Registration system
- Air travelers are already registered, but land travelers must now comply
Will Canadians Need to Be Fingerprinted?
No. The U.S. government has confirmed that Canadian citizens are exempt from fingerprinting. However, they still must register with DHS if their stay exceeds 30 days. Once registered, Canadians will receive a digital proof of alien registration through their myUSCIS account, which they must carry while in the U.S.
What Are the Penalties for Not Registering?
Failure to register could result in serious consequences, including:
- Fines up to $5,000
- Possible 30-day jail sentence
Previously, non-compliance resulted in a minor fine, but the new rule significantly increases the penalties. Travelers must carry proof of registration at all times to avoid issues.
What Does This Mean for Snowbirds?
The new requirement raises concerns for Canadian snowbirds who spend winters in the U.S. Some may find the extra paperwork frustrating, and the increased penalties could discourage extended stays.
Key takeaways for snowbirds:
- No fingerprinting is required, but registration is mandatory for stays over 30 days
- Digital proof of registration must be carried at all times
- Non-compliance could result in significant fines or legal trouble
These changes add a new layer of complexity for Canadians who regularly visit the U.S. for extended periods.
Final Thoughts
While the fingerprinting exemption remains in place, Canadians must be aware of the stricter registration requirements and penalties. Those planning to stay in the U.S. for more than 30 days should register with DHS to avoid fines and legal complications. Travelers should take the time to understand these changes and ensure they comply with the new requirements before entering the U.S.
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If you are a Canadian and have any 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)
