Overview
This guide summarizes the 11 most important updated rules for Canadians entering the US in 2025, highlighting new identification, registration, and travel regulations, as well as stricter enforcement at the border and airports.
Proper Proof of Citizenship Required
- Canadians must present valid citizenship documents at the border; passports are mandatory for air travel, and Nexus or enhanced ID may suffice for car or boat.
- Children need official ID and, if traveling with one parent, a signed authorization letter from the other parent.
- Border agents strictly enforce documentation requirements in 2025, with no exceptions for missing paperwork.
Six-Month Visa-Free Stay: Stricter Limits
- Canadians can visit the US for up to 6 months without a visa for tourism or business, not for study, work, or immigration.
- Frequent or extended stays face increased scrutiny; proof of ties to Canada may be required.
- Enforcement is much stricter, especially for repeat visitors.
Registration for Stays Over 30 Days
- Canadians staying in the US for more than 30 consecutive days must file Form G325R with US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
- Exemptions apply to children under 14, seniors over 65, and those with valid I94s.
- Failure to register may result in fines, complications, or bans.
Biometrics and Proof of Status
- Some travelers, especially those required to register or applying for certain visas, may be asked for biometric data.
- Registered travelers must carry proof of registration at all times to avoid delays or penalties.
Visa Applications: DS160 Form Requirement
- As of May 1, 2025, all Canadians applying for non-immigrant US visas must submit the DS160 confirmation form.
- Missing this step will halt the visa process and may lead to missed opportunities.
Restrictions for Specific Nationalities
- Canadians with dual nationality from certain restricted countries face increased questioning, interviews, or entry refusal as of June 9, 2025.
- Carry both Canadian and other passports to expedite processing and clarify status.
Pre-Clearance Pilot at Land Crossings
- A pilot program at Canon Corner's CVY Hill enables travelers to clear US customs on Canadian soil before crossing.
- The program may expand if successful; travelers in the pre-clearance zone are subject to US law.
Searches of Electronic Devices
- US officers may search electronic devices at the border without a warrant; refusal to cooperate can result in denial of entry.
- Passengers are advised to back up data, use cloud storage, and remove sensitive information.
Dual Citizens Should Carry Both Passports
- Canadians with another citizenship must travel with both passports to ease entry and exit procedures.
- This is especially important due to new restrictions on some nationalities.
Six-Month Stay Limit
- Canadians must not overstay the 6-month visitor limit; frequent or lengthy stays increase scrutiny.
- Evidence of Canadian residency, such as property records or insurance, is recommended to prove ties.
Real ID for Domestic US Flights
- Starting May 7, 2025, all travelers on domestic US flights must show a Real ID driver’s license or a valid passport.
- Canadian provincial licenses are no longer accepted for domestic flights; a passport is required at TSA checkpoints.
Action Items
- May 1, 2025 – Canadian visa applicants: Submit DS160 confirmation form with all non-immigrant visa applications.
- May 7, 2025 – All Canadian air travelers within US: Use a valid passport for domestic US flights.
- April 11, 2025 – Travelers staying over 30 days: Complete Form G325R registration.
- Ongoing – Dual citizens: Carry both Canadian and second passports when traveling.
- Ongoing – All travelers: Ensure all documentation is valid before travel; prepare for potential device searches.