On May 10, 2025, U.S. lawmakers introduced the “Canadian Snowbird Act,” a bipartisan bill aimed at extending the duration Canadian retirees can spend in the United States without a visa. Currently, Canadians are permitted to stay in the U.S. for up to six months per year under the B-2 tourist visa. The proposed legislation seeks to increase this period to eight months, specifically benefiting Canadian citizens aged 50 and older who own or lease a residence in the U.S. CTV News+1Wikipedia+1CTV News
The bill has garnered support from various stakeholders, including immigration lawyers and senior advocacy groups. Evan Green, a Canadian immigration lawyer, emphasized that the extension would provide greater flexibility for retirees who split their time between Canada and warmer U.S. states. Rosanna Berardi, a U.S. immigration attorney, noted that the change could alleviate some of the legal complexities snowbirds face when managing their stays. CTV NewsCTV News
The Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA), which has long advocated for extended stays, praised the bill’s introduction. The CSA highlighted that many Canadian retirees contribute significantly to local economies in states like Florida and Arizona through property ownership and consumer spending. Extending their allowed stay could enhance these economic benefits. WikipediaCTV News
However, the bill also raises considerations regarding tax implications and healthcare coverage. Canadians spending more than 183 days in the U.S. may be considered U.S. residents for tax purposes, potentially subjecting them to additional tax obligations. Moreover, prolonged stays could affect eligibility for provincial healthcare coverage in Canada, as most provinces require residents to be present for a minimum number of days each year. CTV News
The proposed legislation reflects ongoing efforts to accommodate the lifestyle preferences of Canadian retirees while balancing legal and economic considerations. If passed, the Canadian Snowbird Act would mark a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy concerning Canadian citizens and could set a precedent for future bilateral agreements on cross-border residency.
