Canadians travelling to the U.S. should be prepared for greater scrutiny by U.S. border agents, including the possibility of having phones and laptops checked, according to a new travel update issued by the Canadian government.
“Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders and the Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements for the United States,” the government states on the Global Affairs Canada website (https://travel.gc.ca/).
The notification adds, “Individual border agents often have significant discretion in making those determinations. U.S. authorities strictly enforce entry requirements. Expect scrutiny at ports of entry, including of electronic devices. Comply and be forthcoming in all interactions with border authorities. If you are denied entry, you could be detained while awaiting deportation.”
The government says the information it is conveying has been obtained from the U.S. authorities but “can change at any time.”
Ottawa updated travel advice to the U.S. in late March, informing Canadians and foreign nationals planning to stay for more than 30 days that they needed to register with U.S. officials, and that failure to do so could result in “penalties, fines and misdemeanour prosecution.”
That measure comes into force on April 11.
The latest advisory also urges travellers to carry proof of status while in the U.S.
“Authorities may request proof of legal status in the U.S. at any time. Be prepared to show evidence of your legal presence in the U.S.,” the advisory says.
They are also asking Canadians to be aware of new instructions as of February 2025 regarding visa applications.
Canadians can typically stay in the U.S. up to six months without visas, but there are some exceptions.
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