Understanding the Canada Travel Warnings

Many Canadians are deciding to boycott travel to the United States as a response to Trump's trade war. Spending your vacation dollars in Canada is a great way to support Canadian tourism. 

But governments around the world, including the government of Canada have now issued travel warnings or updated their travel guidance for their citizens travelling to the US, and there are good reasons why this is the case. 

What Changed?

Canadians visiting the US for more than 30 days are now required to register. The Alien Registration Requirement web page indicates you must create an account online and submit a form. At time of writing, there's an exemption for Canadian travellers to submit to biometrics collection, though that is part of the process for non-Canadians now. We'll see how long that lasts.

If it appears that you are required to register, USCIS will review your Form G-325R to determine if you are required to appear for a biometric services appointment. If you are not required to appear for a biometric services appointment (for example, Canadian visitors and aliens under 14 years of age), USCIS will provide you with evidence of registration (see Step 5 below). (Link)

This new requirement puts another inconvenience on Canadians, especially snowbirds, travelling to the US, and will likely drive travellers to other warm climates like Mexico or the Dominican Republic. 

Especially given the increased scrutiny at the border, this additional paperwork just represents another risk factor.

Increased Border Scrutiny

The Trump Administration has made no secret of the fact that they're actively searching for any excuse to detain and deport immigrants. The conditions of detention have been reported to be awful, and previously minor infractions are now met with an out-sized response.

Recommendations for Canadian Travellers

Given these developments, Canadians are advised to:

• Make Sure Your Documents Are Valid: If you have to travel to the US, ensure that everyone travelling with you has passports that are valid for at least 6 months, and that any new registration or documentation requirements are met before you get to the border.
• Stay Informed Regularly check for updates on travel advisories and border policies before planning a trip to the US. Things literally change daily.
• Explore Alternatives: Nobody's asking you not to go on vacation. Unlike during COVID, Canada and the rest of the world are still open for business. It's really only the USA that's decided to turn inward, so go explore!