Government Relations Report Johanne Blain First Vice-President With many Canadian snowbirds already settled at their winter destinations, recent announcements from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have prompted new questions about what to expect at the border for the rest of the season. To help provide clarity, the Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) has reviewed the latest information and prepared a summary of what has changed, what remains the same and how these updates may impact your stay or upcoming travel. In late October, the CSA began receiving reports that some Canadians entering the United States by land, particularly those planning to stay for 30 days or longer, were being asked to complete new entry procedures. Some travellers were required to file Form I-94 at the border and undergo digital fingerprinting and photographing, while others were not asked to do so, thereby creating confusion. After consulting with officials and monitoring reports from various crossings, the CSA has confirmed that these measures are not being applied consistently. Requirements continue to vary by location and by officer, and there has been no official announcement of a uniform policy applying these steps to all Canadian visitors. For most travellers, crossing the border continues much as before. Snowbirds should continue to travel with their valid Canadian passport, proof of residency and travel health insurance. After entering the United States, it is advisable to check whether you were issued an I-94 form. If you were, print and keep a copy for your records. If you were not issued an I-94, the CSA recommends that you file Form G-325R with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 30 days of your entry. This form provides basic biographic information and serves as a record of your arrival. To assist members in completing this form, we have uploaded a step-by-step video guide which can be accessed from the “News Releases” section of our official website – www.snowbirds.org. It is important to remember that these procedural differences do not change your eligibility to travel or the duration of your permitted stay in the United States. They do, however, highlight the increasing use of biometric and digital record-keeping tools at the border. The CSA is continuing to monitor how these procedures are being implemented and will keep members updated as new information becomes available. Beyond these procedural variations, there is a broader policy change on the horizon of which that all Canadian travellers should be aware. On October 27, 2025, CBP published a final rule that will take effect on December 26, 2025, introducing a comprehensive biometric entry-exit system for all non-U.S. citizens, including Canadians. Under this new rule, travellers entering or leaving the United States by land, air or sea may have their photograph taken and, in some cases, digital fingerprints collected. The goal, according to CBP, is to create a consistent biometric record of each entry and exit to strengthen border security and streamline future crossings. This new rule eliminates the previous exemptions that applied to certain groups of travellers, meaning that biometric screening will soon become a standard part of the entry and exit process for nearly all foreign nationals. While the change does not alter how long Canadians can stay in the United States, nor does it affect the rights of Canadian visitors under existing immigration law, travellers should expect border processing to take a little longer as the system is rolled out. You may encounter automated kiosks, facial-recognition cameras and/or other digital screening technologies during your next trip. For snowbirds, this means planning ahead and allowing extra time at the border, particularly in the early months of implementation. Ensuring that all travel documents are current and easily accessible will help reduce potential delays. Travellers who stay for extended periods should also continue following CSA guidance regarding USCIS Form G-325R and related documentation. The CSA understands that changes like these can cause uncertainty, especially for those who cross the border frequently or regularly spend part of the year in the United States. Rest assured that the Association remains in close contact with both Canadian and U.S. authorities and is committed to advocating on behalf of our members. As these new biometric systems and entry procedures evolve, the CSA will continue to provide updates, explanations and support to ensure that snowbirds have the accurate, practical information which they need to travel with confidence. For more than three decades, the Canadian Snowbird Association has worked to defend the rights and privileges of Canadian travellers. While the upcoming border and biometric changes may represent an adjustment, being informed and prepared will make your journey smoother and more predictable. The CSA encourages all members to stay connected through our website and social media channels for ongoing updates. Gilles and I wish you safe travels as you enjoy your time in the sun this winter season. CSANews | WINTER 2025 | 11
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