As of October 2025, Canada has issued an updated travel advisory for its citizens planning to visit the United States. This advisory highlights new entry requirements, potential challenges at border crossings, and safety concerns, particularly for LGBTQ+ travelers and those with non-binary gender markers on their passports. The advisory also addresses the implications of the ongoing U.S. government shutdown on travel.
New Registration Requirements for Extended Stays
Effective April 11, 2025, Canadian travelers intending to stay in the U.S. for 30 days or more must comply with the U.S. government’s alien registration requirement. This process involves providing personal information and undergoing fingerprinting. Failure to comply may result in penalties, fines, and misdemeanor prosecution.
However, most Canadians are exempt from the fingerprinting requirement. The advisory notes that it will apply in certain circumstances, and travelers are encouraged to check the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for specific details.
Border Crossing Challenges Amid U.S. Government Shutdown
The ongoing U.S. government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2025, has introduced additional complexities for travelers. While air travel continues, critical personnel like air traffic controllers and TSA workers are working without pay, potentially leading to longer TSA lines, flight delays, and cancellations. The shutdown also affects the E-Verify employment system and may impact the operation of museums and national parks.
Despite these challenges, international travel and U.S. ports of entry remain open. However, travelers should anticipate potential delays and disruptions due to the staffing shortages and operational constraints caused by the shutdown.
Safety Concerns for LGBTQ+ Travelers
Canada has updated its travel advisory to warn LGBTQ+ travelers of increased scrutiny while crossing the U.S. border. This includes potential challenges for individuals with non-binary gender markers on their passports. The U.S. Department of State and Customs and Border Protection have not responded to questions about the policy at the time of publication, and the legality of the two-sex passport rule is expected to be reviewed by the Supreme Court amid ongoing legal challenges.
Impact on U.S. Permanent Residents
Canadians who hold U.S. permanent resident status must present a valid green card when entering the country. The advisory notes that permanent resident status can be revoked for reasons such as extended periods spent outside the U.S. or a reassessment of eligibility, including past criminal convictions.
Recommendations for Travelers
- Verify Entry Requirements: Before traveling, check the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for the latest entry requirements and advisories.
- Prepare Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documents, including a valid passport and any required visas or registrations.
- Stay Informed: Monitor the status of the U.S. government shutdown and its potential impact on travel operations.
- Exercise Caution: Be aware of the potential for increased scrutiny at border crossings, especially if you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community or hold a non-binary gender marker on your passport.
FAQs
As of April 11, 2025, Canadians planning to stay in the U.S. for 30 days or more must register with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This process involves providing personal information and undergoing fingerprinting, although most Canadians are exempt from the fingerprinting requirement.
Yes, Canada has updated its travel advisory to warn LGBTQ+ travelers of increased scrutiny while crossing the U.S. border. This includes potential challenges for individuals with non-binary gender markers on their passports.
The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has led to staffing shortages among air traffic controllers and TSA workers, potentially causing longer TSA lines, flight delays, and cancellations. While international travel and U.S. ports of entry remain open, travelers should anticipate potential delays and disruptions.
For the most current information and updates, travelers are encouraged to consult official government sources and stay informed about any changes to travel advisories and requirements.
