Canadian Snowbirds Face New Border Rule: Fingerprinting and Photographing at U.S. Entry

Canadian snowbirds are facing new border regulations requiring fingerprinting and photography upon entering the United States. This change was confirmed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and has created confusion among travelers.

New Border Rules for Canadian Snowbirds

Reports indicate that several snowbirds encountered these new registration requirements at various U.S. border crossings. Notably, Jacquie and Steve Ree from Ladysmith, British Columbia, experienced this firsthand on October 9 at the Peace Arch Border Crossing.

Process at the Border

The Rees were aware of the requirement for travelers planning to stay in the U.S. longer than 29 days. However, they were surprised by the extent of the process, which included a search of their motorhome and a lengthy wait. After initially being told they couldn’t register at the border, a third officer eventually assisted them with the fingerprinting and photography required for data collection.

The couple paid a total of $60 USD for their registration. Jacquie Ree expressed frustration with the overall process and the inconsistencies among CBP officials about the registration requirements.

Background of the Requirement

This regulation stems from an executive order by former President Donald Trump, which mandates that many foreign visitors staying for 30 days or more register with U.S. authorities. Failure to do so can result in fines of up to $5,000 or even imprisonment, with the requirement in effect since April.

Travelers’ Experiences Vary

• Many snowbirds are now experiencing these rules for the first time as the winter season begins.
• Air travelers typically receive an electronic arrival record, while land travelers often do not.

Options for Registration

CBP provides two ways for land travelers to obtain their I-94: they can either apply online via the I-94 website or the CBP One app prior to their trip, or they can register at the border. Both options incur a fee of $30 USD per person, and the fingerprinting and photographing are part of the process.

Despite this, immigration experts indicate an alternative option for long-term visitors. If allowed entry without an I-94, travelers can fill out a form known as G-325R within 30 days, which does not require a fee or fingerprinting.

Confusion Among Travelers

The experience varies among snowbirds. For instance, Brenda and Dan Paige, who crossed into the U.S. on October 2, reported being immediately directed to secondary inspection without being informed of the G-325R option. In contrast, Caroline Horne and her husband were permitted entry at the Peace Bridge without any mention of registration.

Lawyers specializing in immigration have pointed out that the involvement of different agencies, CBP and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has contributed to the confusion surrounding these new rules.

Looking Ahead

Stephen Fine, president of Snowbird Advisor, is monitoring these changes and their impacts on travelers. As questions continue to arise, he aims to provide clear information to ease the process for Canadian snowbirds.

Canadians currently in the U.S. should check CBP resources to verify if they received an I-94 upon entry. Updated guidelines will be crucial for ensuring compliance and a smooth experience at U.S. borders this winter season.