One-of-a-kind orange snowy owl spotted in Huron County, Michigan by wildlife photographer Julie Maggert.
Canadian visitors to the U.S. who stay more than 30 days could face fines and misdemeanour prosecution.
“The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf”
BREAKING: Canada has issued a travel advisory to the US, saying that Canadian visitors to the U.S. who stay more than 30 days could face fines and misdemeanour prosecution.
“The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf,” it said.
— unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) March 23, 2025
Fact Check: True ✅
Canada has indeed issued a travel advisory for its citizens visiting the United States, particularly highlighting potential risks for those staying longer than 30 days. The advisory warns that Canadians who overstay the typical 30-day limit (which applies to many short-term visitors under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program) could face fines, deportation, or even misdemeanor charges.
The Canadian government emphasizes that it cannot intervene in U.S. immigration matters, urging travelers to ensure they comply with U.S. entry requirements and to be aware of the rules governing their stay. This advisory is part of Canada’s routine efforts to inform its citizens about potential risks when traveling abroad, and it underscores the importance of understanding the legal implications of overstaying in another country.
If you’re planning a trip to the U.S., it’s always a good idea to check the specific entry requirements and ensure your travel plans align with the permitted duration of stay.
That said,
If you’re a Canadian planning to visit the United States and are concerned about the travel advisory, here are some steps you can take to ensure compliance and avoid potential issues:
1. Understand U.S. Entry Requirements
- Canadians do not typically need a visa for short visits to the U.S., but they are generally allowed to stay for up to 6 months under the B-2 tourist status. However, the exact duration is determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the port of entry.
- If you’re entering under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA), the stay is limited to 90 days. Ensure you know which category applies to your trip.
2. Check Your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- After entering the U.S., check your I-94 record online (https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov) to confirm the exact date by which you must leave the country. This is the official record of your authorized stay.
3. Plan Your Stay Within the Allotted Time
- Ensure your trip does not exceed the duration granted by the CBP officer. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for an extension before your authorized stay expires.
4. Apply for a Visa or Extension if Needed
- If you plan to stay longer than the permitted time, consider applying for a B-2 tourist visa before your trip or file for an extension of stay (Form I-539) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before your current status expires.
5. Carry Proof of Ties to Canada
- When entering the U.S., be prepared to show evidence of your intent to return to Canada, such as a return ticket, proof of employment, or property ownership. This can help demonstrate that you do not plan to overstay.
6. Monitor Travel Advisories
- Stay updated on any changes to U.S. entry requirements or Canadian travel advisories by checking the official websites:
- Government of Canada Travel Advisory: https://travel.gc.ca
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection: https://www.cbp.gov
7. Seek Legal Advice if Necessary
- If you’re unsure about your status or have concerns about overstaying, consult an immigration lawyer or expert to ensure you comply with U.S. immigration laws.
8. Avoid Overstaying
- Overstaying, even by a single day, can lead to serious consequences, including fines, deportation, and future inadmissibility to the U.S. Always plan your trip carefully to avoid unintentional violations.
By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of running into issues during your visit to the U.S. and ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Here’s some additional related information that might be helpful for Canadians traveling to the United States:
1. Entry Requirements for Canadians
- Passport: While a passport is not strictly required for Canadians entering the U.S. by land or sea, it is highly recommended. For air travel, a valid passport is mandatory.
- NEXUS Card: If you have a NEXUS card, you can use it for expedited entry at designated lanes at land borders and airports.
- ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization): If you are traveling to the U.S. by air under the Visa Waiver Program (e.g., transiting through the U.S. to another country), you may need to apply for an ESTA. However, Canadians are generally exempt from ESTA requirements when entering directly from Canada.
2. Duration of Stay
- Typical Stay: Canadians are usually admitted for up to 6 months under the B-2 tourist category. However, the exact duration is determined by the CBP officer at the port of entry and is noted on your I-94 record.
- Visa Waiver Program (ESTA): If you are entering under the Visa Waiver Program (e.g., as a dual citizen or resident of another country), your stay is limited to 90 days and cannot be extended.
3. Extending Your Stay
- If you need to stay longer than the period granted on your I-94, you must apply for an extension using Form I-539 before your authorized stay expires. Extensions are not guaranteed, and overstaying without approval can lead to penalties.
4. Consequences of Overstaying
- Fines and Penalties: Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and a ban on re-entering the U.S. for a certain period (e.g., 3 years for overstays of 180 days to 1 year, or 10 years for overstays of more than 1 year).
- Future Travel: Overstaying can complicate future trips to the U.S., as it may lead to additional scrutiny or denial of entry.
5. Travel Insurance
- Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. Canadian health insurance (e.g., provincial plans) may not cover medical expenses in the U.S., which can be extremely costly.
6. Driving in the U.S.
- Canadians can drive in the U.S. with a valid Canadian driver’s license. However, if you plan to stay for an extended period, some states may require you to obtain a local driver’s license.
- Ensure your auto insurance covers you while driving in the U.S., or consider purchasing additional coverage.
7. Border Crossing Tips
- Be Prepared: Have all necessary documents ready, including your passport, proof of ties to Canada (e.g., employment, property), and a clear explanation of your travel plans.
- Declare Goods: Be honest about any goods you are bringing into the U.S., including cash over $10,000 USD, as failing to declare can result in fines or confiscation.
- Know the Rules: Familiarize yourself with U.S. customs regulations to avoid bringing prohibited items (e.g., certain foods, plants, or firearms).
8. Dual Citizens
- If you are a dual citizen of Canada and the U.S., you must enter the U.S. using your U.S. passport. Dual citizens are not eligible to use the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) and must comply with U.S. entry requirements for citizens.
9. COVID-19 Considerations
- While most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, it’s still a good idea to check for any remaining requirements, such as vaccination proof or testing, depending on your mode of travel and destination.
10. Resources
- Government of Canada Travel Advisory: https://travel.gc.ca
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP): https://www.cbp.gov
- U.S. Embassy in Canada: https://ca.usembassy.gov
- I-94 Record Check: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov
By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip to the United States. Safe travels!
Last but not least,
Don’t Mess Canada Goose!
Bro will have a good time tonight
byu/YosoyPabloIscobar inMadeMeSmile
Whaddaya Say?