Every winter, tens of thousands of Canadian seniors—often called “snowbirds”—head south to warmer U.S. climates. But this winter, many of them are facing new U.S. border-registration requirements that may affect how easily they travel and stay in the United States. Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) and multiple media outlets have described the changes and the concerns they raise. Axios+2Axios+2
What’s changing
The U.S. government has introduced a rule that Canadian travellers who plan to stay in the United States for more than 30 days must register with U.S. immigration authorities (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, or USCIS) under a law that has not previously been strictly enforced for Canadians. Axios+1 The rule is set to become mandatory starting April 11, 2025. The Guardian+1 In effect, a Canadian snowbird spending, say, five weeks (35 days) in Florida would trigger the need to register, whereas private vacationers staying shorter periods may not.
The registration requirement includes providing personal information, and in some cases photographing or fingerprinting visitors—though Canadian non-immigrant visitors may be exempt from fingerprinting. The Guardian The fact that often no registration was required before underlines the shift.
Read more in our Travel section.
Why this matters
For snowbirds—many of whom are seniors, possibly with health or mobility needs, or used to flexible stays south of the border—the change introduces an additional step, potential uncertainty, and possibly financial or administrative burdens. They may worry about whether they qualify, how to register, what happens if they don’t, and how this affects long-term stays.
Some implications:
- Planning and compliance: Before travelling, snowbirds will want to check whether the intended stay exceeds 30 days and if the registration is needed. Failing to register may result in penalties, fines or future travel complications. Axios+1
- Cost and logistics: Registration may require paperwork, potential fees, time at border or online processes—not always trivial for older travellers or those who travel with RVs or in groups.
- Uncertainty about enforcement: While the rule exists, enforcement in practice has been inconsistent, and many travel advisors and stakeholders say the rule is still being clarified. The CSA is working with U.S. congressional representatives to seek exemptions or modifications for Canadians. Axios+1
- Impact on U.S. properties or winter homes: Some Canadians who own U.S. homes just for winter stays might reconsider their timing or stay length if the administrative burden increases. There are reports of Canadians selling U.S. winter homes citing policy uncertainty. Axios
What seniors and snowbirds should do
- Verify your stay length: Check how many days you plan to be in the U.S. If more than 30 days, assume registration is required.
- Contact the CSA or border-crossing professionals: The CSA is providing guidance. They may help clarify if any exemptions apply for Canadians.
- Maintain clear documentation: Keep travel records, entry/exit dates, property ownership or RV registrations, and any U.S. address/contact info ready.
- Consider alternatives: For seniors staying very long periods, consider breaking up the stay (returning to Canada temporarily) to avoid triggering registration or other requirements.
- Stay updated: Rules may change or be clarified; check trusted sources (U.S. immigration, Canadian travel advisory) before departure.
In short: The new U.S. border registration requirement marks a significant change for Canadian snowbirds, especially older travellers who traditionally spend extended winters in the U.S. While the 30-day threshold may seem modest, the administrative and logistic implications, particularly for seniors who value predictability and ease, are meaningful. It’s wise to prepare in advance, understand all requirements, and monitor how enforcement evolves over the coming season.
