Several Canadian snowbirds have recently undergone fingerprinting and photography procedures at the U.S. border as part of the new registration process for extended stays, confirmed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to CBC News. Jacquie and Steve Ree from Ladysmith, B.C., encountered this requirement on October 9 at the Peace Arch Border Crossing between Surrey, B.C., and Blaine, Wash. They were directed for a search of their motorhome after agreeing to complete the process at the border. Despite some confusion and a 1.5-hour wait, they eventually underwent fingerprinting and photography for data collection, with a total cost of $60 US.
The implementation of these measures has been linked to an executive order issued by U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this year, mandating registration for foreign visitors staying 30 days or longer in the U.S. The rule, effective since April, has led to uncertainty and frustration among Canadian snowbirds encountering it for the first time this season. While air travelers receive an electronic arrival record upon entry, land travelers often face challenges in obtaining the requisite documentation.
CBP spokesperson Jessica Turner clarified that travelers opting to register at the border or through online pre-application channels will be subject to a $30 US fee for fingerprinting and photography as part of the I-94 application process. These security measures aim to verify identities and ensure compliance with U.S. entry regulations. Nexus cardholders are not exempt from these requirements.
For those seeking alternative registration methods, immigration lawyers and snowbird organizations suggest completing the USCIS G-325R form online within 30 days of arrival, without any fees or fingerprinting for Canadians. Individual CBP officers have the discretion to direct travelers to complete the I-94 application at the border or allow the alternative form submission at their U.S. destination.
Confusion over registration options has been attributed to the involvement of separate immigration agencies, CBP, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), in the process. Snowbirds navigating these procedures may find a more streamlined experience by opting for the USCIS form submission post-entry. Stephen Fine, president of Snowbird Advisor, expressed concerns about potential limitations in presenting travelers with the full range of registration choices and pledged to address inquiries and updates from snowbirds regarding the evolving registration process.
