Canadian citizens have traditionally enjoyed visa-free travel to the United States for tourism and short business trips, often staying up to six months without additional paperwork. However, a new rule now limits these stays to 30 days without an I-94. If a Canadian plans to stay longer, they must complete USCIS Form G-325R for alien registration. This article explains the new policy, who it affects, and what steps to take to comply.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Changed in 2024
- The 30-Day Limit Without an I-94
- What Is USCIS Form G-325R?
- When Do Canadians Need an I-94?
- How to File Form G-325R
- Stays Requiring Visas
- Extending Your Stay
- How to Avoid Travel Issues
- Conclusion
1. Introduction
In the past, Canadian citizens could enter the U.S. without a visa and stay up to six months for tourism or limited business activities. There was typically no need for an I-94 form or any formal registration. A new policy now limits those who do not receive an I-94 to a maximum stay of 30 days. To stay longer, a Canadian visitor must either request an I-94 upon entry or register with USCIS using Form G-325R.
2. What Changed in 2025
In 2025, U.S. immigration procedures were updated to require additional documentation for certain foreign visitors who do not receive formal entry records. For Canadian citizens, this means:
- You can no longer stay longer than 30 days without formal registration.
- Stays over 30 days require either an I-94 or alien registration through Form G-325R.
This rule applies to visa-exempt Canadian travelers entering by land or air for tourism or business purposes.
3. The 30-Day Limit Without an I-94
Canadian citizens entering the U.S. without a visa and not issued an I-94 are now limited to a 30-day stay. After that point, they must:
- Leave the U.S., or
- Register using Form G-325R, or
- Apply for and be issued an I-94 for a longer stay
Travelers who overstay this limit without registration may face penalties, future travel restrictions, or removal proceedings.
4. What Is USCIS Form G-325R?
Form G-325R is used by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to collect biographic information from foreign nationals who stay in the U.S. beyond 30 days without a visa or I-94. This is part of the alien registration requirement now in effect.
Form G-325R asks for:
- Full name, date of birth, and country of origin
- Past five years of address and employment history
- Requires a U.S. address and purpose of stay
5. When Do Canadians Need an I-94?
An I-94 arrival/departure record is required for Canadians when:
- Entering with a TN or other employment visa
- Entering on a student visa (F-1)
- Changing or extending their immigration status
- Staying longer than 30 days without filing Form G-325R
You can view your I-94 online with CBP.
6. How to File Form G-325R
If you plan to remain in the U.S. longer than 30 days and were not given an I-94, you must complete and file Form G-325R. This registration process helps confirm your legal presence during extended visits.
Filing Steps:
- Create a USCIS Account
- Select file a form and G-325R
- Fill in all requested personal, address, and employment history details
- Keep a copy for your records
- Submit the form as directed by USCIS
Registration does not grant legal status or extend your stay on its own, but it is required to remain compliant if you’ve been in the U.S. for the past 30 days without an I-94.
7. Stays Requiring Visas
While most short-term tourism and business trips do not require visas, the following categories do:
| Purpose of Visit | Visa Required | I-94 Required | G-325R if No I-94 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourism under 30 days | No | No | No |
| Tourism over 30 days | No | Yes or G-325R | Yes |
| Business (short trip) | No | No | Yes, if over 30 days |
8. Extending Your Stay
If you want to stay beyond the allowed 30 days and do not have a visa or I-94, you must submit Form G-325R as supporting documentation. Applications should be filed before your 30-day period ends.
9. How to Avoid Travel Issues
To avoid delays or issues at the border:
- Be clear about your intended stay and travel purpose
- Carry proof of return plans, such as a round-trip ticket or employer letter
- Ask for an I-94 if you know your stay will exceed 30 days
- Be prepared to complete Form G-325R if your stay is extended without an I-94
The CBP officer at your port of entry has final authority over the length and conditions of your stay.
10. Conclusion
Canadian travelers must now follow new rules when visiting the United States. If you’re entering without a visa or I-94, you are limited to 30 days unless you register your visit with Form G-325R. This change helps the U.S. government track long-term visitors more closely, even those who are visa-exempt.
Before planning an extended trip, it’s wise to understand your documentation requirements and consult a licensed U.S. immigration attorney if you have questions.
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If you are a Canadian and have any questions regarding your stay in the U.S., 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.
