Recent changes to U.S. border policy have led to Canadian snowbirds experiencing fingerprinting and photography upon entry when registering for extended stays. This procedure has been implemented by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and is now standard for travelers staying longer than 29 days.
Fingerprinting and Photos Required for Canadian Snowbirds
Canadians Jacquie and Steve Ree, traveling from Ladysmith, B.C., reported their experience at the Peace Arch Border Crossing on October 9. Initially aware of the new registration requirement, the couple agreed to register at the border. However, they encountered unexpected delays and searches.
After waiting 90 minutes, they were informed by a second CBP officer that they could not register. Subsequently, a third officer allowed them to complete the process, which included fingerprinting and photographing. The Rees incurred a total fee of $60 for their registration, which Jacquie Ree criticized as a potential “money grab.”
Confusion and Frustration Over Registration Process
The confusion stems from an executive order issued by President Donald Trump earlier this year. This order mandates that many foreign visitors staying for 30 days or longer register with the U.S. government. Those who do not comply could face penalties, including fines up to $5,000 or jail time.
The requirement, effective since April, is creating challenges for Canadian snowbirds as they navigate the new regulations. Air travelers receive an electronic arrival record (I-94) upon entry, while land travelers often do not, leading to varying experiences.
Options for Registering Under New U.S. Law
Travelers can obtain their I-94 via two methods as outlined by CBP’s updated guidelines. These options include:
- Pre-applying through the I-94 website or CBP One app, within seven days of entry
- Registering at the border with fees of $30 per person, which also require fingerprinting and photography
CBP spokesperson Jessica Turner explained that these measures are necessary for enhancing border security and compliance with U.S. regulations. However, immigration lawyers suggest an alternative for land travelers: completing the G-325R form online at their destination without the fingerprinting requirement.
Variable Experiences at the Border
Different snowbirds have recounted varied experiences at different border crossings. For instance, Brenda and Dan Paige of Calgary were sent to secondary inspections without any mention of the G-325R form option. They were fingerprinted, photographed, and charged $60 for their registration.
In contrast, Caroline Horne from Burlington, Ont., was allowed entry at the Peace Bridge border crossing without any registration requirements. Such discrepancies highlight a lack of clarity in the registration process.
Ongoing Confusion Among Travelers
The involvement of multiple U.S. immigration agencies, CBP and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has further complicated the registration process. Lawyers like Jennifer Behm note that travelers might be misinformed about their options, leading to unnecessary fingerprinting and photography.
Stephen Fine, president of Snowbird Advisor, stated that numerous inquiries about the registration issue have flooded in. He expressed concern that some travelers might not be made aware of the alternative registration options available to them.
As the snowbird season progresses, many Canadians are still seeking clarification and guidance on registration requirements when visiting the U.S.
