Is It Getting Easier to Cross the Border from Canada to the U.S. Under Trump?

On This Page, You Will Find:

• Why crossing into the U.S. is getting harder for Canadians
• How the Trump administration’s rhetoric is influencing border policy
• What Canadians can expect at land crossings and airports
• A checklist of what you need to cross the U.S. border
• Tips to reduce delays or refusal at the border
• Long-term impacts on travel and tourism
• Frequently asked questions

Crossing the Canada-U.S. Border Is Getting More Complicated

Under President Donald Trump’s second administration, crossing the U.S. border from Canada is not as easy as it once was. While Canadians remain visa-exempt for short visits, the political climate, tighter immigration enforcement, and increased scrutiny by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are making the experience more unpredictable.

Canadian travellers are being warned by legal experts and government advisories to expect more questions, longer delays, and in some cases, searches of their personal devices or detainment. These developments have led to a sharp drop in cross-border travel.

Why Is Travel to the U.S. More Difficult Now?

According to Buffalo-based immigration lawyer Christine Jurusik, Canadians are still subject to the same laws as before, but how those laws are applied has shifted. “We have seen a trend where Canadians may face additional questioning on entry,” she explains. “But they are generally receiving the same treatment they always have — it just feels different because of the tone of the administration.”

This “tone” includes escalated border enforcement policies, new tariffs on Canadian goods, and inflammatory statements about Canada by the Trump administration. These factors have added tension to what used to be a routine experience for many Canadians.

Public cases like the detention of Canadian actress Jasmine Mooney while applying for a new U.S. visa have only intensified public concern. Mooney’s experience is not isolated — reports of detainments and deportations have become more common, and many fear they could be next.

Canadians Have Few Rights at the U.S. Border

One of the biggest misunderstandings among Canadian travellers is what their rights are—or aren’t—at the U.S. border.

“There is no expectation that someone visiting the United States is going to be admitted,” Jurusik warns. Travellers can be denied entry without detailed explanation. Even having a valid passport and travel plans doesn’t guarantee admission.

At the border, CBP officers can:

• Ask detailed questions about your trip
• Inspect your personal belongings
• Search your phones, laptops, or tablets
• Request passwords to access your data
• Deny you entry based on discretion

While Canadians may refuse to answer certain questions, doing so can raise suspicion and lead to refusal of entry. In short, cooperation is essential, even when the process feels intrusive.

What Is the I-94 Form and Do You Need It?

Canadians visiting the U.S. for more than 30 days must now complete an I-94 registration form, a procedure that wasn’t previously required. The form helps U.S. authorities track the duration and purpose of visits, especially in light of rising concerns over overstays and unauthorized work.

Even those who entered the U.S. before the March 2025 policy update are encouraged to complete the form. Failing to do so may raise red flags when re-entering or extending your stay.

Border Checklist: What You Need to Cross the Canada–U.S. Border

Before heading to the border, make sure you have the following items and preparations in place:

Essential Documents:

• Valid Canadian passport (must be valid for the full duration of your stay)
• Valid visa (if required for specific work or study purposes)
• I-94 registration (if staying more than 30 days)
• Evidence of return (return ticket, proof of employment, or family ties in Canada)

Additional Supporting Documents:

• Hotel or accommodation reservations
• Invitation letter (for business or family visits)
• Proof of financial means (bank statements, credit cards)
• Vehicle documents (if driving: registration, insurance, rental agreement if applicable)
• Travel insurance (recommended)

Electronic Devices:

• Remove or secure sensitive data
• Log out of social media accounts or switch to guest profiles
• Consider travelling with a clean device
• Encrypt files if necessary (but be aware you may be asked for the password)

Behaviour Tips:

• Be respectful and honest with border officers
• Stay calm, even if questioned in detail
• Do not joke or make political statements
• Dress appropriately and match your plans (e.g., don’t say you’re going to the beach but bring ski gear)

Why Canadians Are Choosing to Stay Home or Travel Elsewhere

Travel data shows a significant drop in Canadians heading to the U.S. In March 2025 alone:

• Car crossings dropped by 32% year-over-year
• Air travel to the U.S. declined by 13.5%
• Canadian tourism to U.S. destinations like California fell 12%

This trend coincides with increased tariffs, inflammatory political rhetoric, and fear of being detained at the border. Some Canadians, like B.C. resident Don Delayen, are cancelling U.S. trips altogether in protest. Delayen swapped his spring cruise from California for a holiday in Mexico, citing concerns over sovereignty and safety.

For others, the shift is practical. Domestic travel within Canada is booming, and international destinations like Mexico, Thailand, and Portugal are gaining popularity. Not only do they offer more affordable experiences, but many Canadians now feel more welcome outside of the U.S.

A Travel Industry Warning

According to the U.S. Travel Association, Canadian tourists contribute billions annually to the American economy. A 10% drop in Canadian tourism could result in a $2.1 billion loss and jeopardize more than 140,000 jobs. With some estimates projecting a 30% drop in 2025, U.S. businesses that rely on Canadian travellers may face long-term consequences.

Travel Alternatives for Canadians

If you’re feeling unsure about travelling to the U.S., consider these alternatives:

• Domestic gems: Tofino, Banff, Gaspésie, St. John’s, and the Canadian Rockies
• International escapes: Portugal’s Algarve, Mexico’s Oaxaca region, Thailand’s Koh Samui, and France’s overseas territories like St. Pierre and Miquelon

These destinations offer warmth, culture, and affordability — without the stress of border uncertainty.

Tips for a Smoother Border Experience

• Be clear and consistent in explaining your travel purpose
• Avoid last-minute changes to your itinerary
• Bring only necessary electronics
• Avoid political stickers, clothing, or social media posts
• If in doubt, consult an immigration lawyer before your trip

What About Canadian Snowbirds?

Canadian snowbirds — retirees who spend extended periods in the U.S. during winter — are also affected by the tightening of border rules under the Trump administration. While snowbirds typically enter on a B-2 visitor visa and can stay up to six months, they now face increased scrutiny about their length of stay, ties to Canada, and travel intentions.

Snowbirds must be especially careful to:

• Track the number of days spent in the U.S. to avoid tax implications
• Complete the I-94 form if staying longer than 30 days
• Carry proof of Canadian residency, income sources, and return plans

Many snowbirds are reconsidering their U.S. travel plans in favour of Mexico, Portugal, or extended stays in warmer Canadian provinces like British Columbia.

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