Canadian Travelers Warned of US Border Fines and Prosecution: What You Need to Know for 2025 Holidays

Published on December 20, 2025

As the 2025 holiday season approaches, Canadians traveling to the United States are being advised to take extra caution when planning extended stays, especially if crossing at land borders. The Canadian government has issued an updated travel advisory highlighting a heightened risk for those who fail to comply with the U.S. registration rules. This requirement, which has long been in place, is now being more strictly enforced and could result in significant penalties, fines, and even misdemeanor prosecution.

According to Global Affairs Canada, Canadians staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days must be properly registered with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Failure to do so could lead to unexpected consequences for travelers, particularly those planning to spend significant time across the border. The advisory specifically warns travelers about the rising scrutiny at border crossings and the potential for harsher enforcement in the coming months.

The U.S. Registration Requirement: What You Need to Know

The core of the Canadian government’s travel advisory is a clear reminder that Canadians entering the U.S. for extended stays are legally required to register with U.S. authorities. This applies to anyone staying longer than 30 days and mainly affects snowbirds, business travelers, and anyone traveling by land. The I-94 admission record, which can be checked online, is the key to confirming whether the registration has been processed.

The I-94 record essentially tracks visitors to the U.S. and ensures that they are legally compliant with U.S. immigration laws. If you’re planning an extended stay in the U.S. but are unsure whether you have an I-94 record linked to your trip, it is vital to check your status using the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website before departure. The travel advisory emphasizes that travelers should save proof of their I-94 record to avoid potential issues.

Who is Most Affected by the U.S. Registration Requirement?

The primary group affected by the heightened enforcement are Canadians who spend several months in the U.S. annually, commonly referred to as snowbirds. These individuals typically reside in states like Florida, Arizona, or California during the winter months to escape the colder Canadian climate. The Canadian Snowbird Association estimates that 900,000 Canadians are living in the U.S. at any given time, and this group is now facing greater administrative burdens than ever before.

In addition to snowbirds, the policy also impacts business travelers and long-term visitors, including those coming to the U.S. for work assignments or family visits lasting more than 30 days. As cross-border traffic remains high, Canadians need to be mindful of these new travel requirements as they plan their 2025 holiday travel.

Penalties for Non-Compliance: What Happens if You Don’t Register?

Travelers who fail to register with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection risk facing a range of penalties, from fines to misdemeanor charges. The U.S. State Department and Department of Homeland Security have confirmed that travelers who do not comply with the I-94 registration rules will be subject to these fines, and in some cases, may be prohibited from re-entering the U.S. in the future.

According to an official statement from the Department of Homeland Security, “We will enforce visa rules and other conditions of entry, and failure to comply with the registration requirement could result in penalties or prosecution.” For travelers who have exceeded the 30-day stay without registering, there is a risk of border denial or travel bans upon returning to the U.S. for future visits.

How to Avoid Penalties and Travel Smoothly

To prevent complications, the Canadian government strongly recommends that travelers planning a stay longer than 30 days take the following steps:

1. Check Your I-94 Record: Before departing for the U.S., ensure that you have an I-94 admission record linked to your stay, and keep proof of this record.
2. Use Online Registration: If no I-94 record is created for land crossings, make sure to complete the U.S. registration process online through CBP’s official portal.
3. Prepare for Border Questions: Be ready to answer questions about the length of your stay, your ties to Canada, and the purpose of your visit.
4. Keep Documentation: Ensure that you have the necessary documentation to prove your temporary visitor status and your ability to financially sustain your stay.

By following these steps, Canadians can avoid unnecessary delays, fines, and complications during their U.S. visits. Travelers should also be aware that U.S. border officers are now authorized to search electronic devices and demand passwords, with refusal potentially leading to fines or entry denials. It’s crucial to stay prepared for these increased security checks during your travel.

Impact of Travel Policy Changes on Canadian Tourism

While the registration requirement and penalties represent a significant change, they also reflect a broader trend toward stricter border controls as the U.S. government continues to tighten its immigration policies. For Canadians, this shift may lead to more conscious planning when crossing the border, particularly for those who traditionally visit for extended periods or rely on road trips for leisure.

The decline in Canadian visits to the U.S. has already been observed, with a 29.7% drop in Canadian trips to the U.S. in August 2025, according to Statistics Canada. As geopolitical tensions and economic factors continue to shape cross-border travel, Canada’s domestic tourism is likely to grow, with more Canadians opting to explore their own country rather than travel south.

Conclusion: Staying Compliant for Smooth U.S. Travel

For Canadians planning to visit the U.S. in 2025, it’s crucial to understand the new registration rules and ensure compliance to avoid penalties and complications. Whether you’re a snowbird, a business traveler, or a family visitor, the key to smooth travel lies in being proactive about your registration and documentation. With this increased enforcement, travelling responsibly has never been more important. By preparing in advance, you’ll be able to avoid unexpected disruptions and ensure your travels remain hassle‑free.