What to know when travelling to the U.S.

We live in a complicated world, with a shifting geopolitical landscape that is changing the way we travel. Many Canadians have stopped going to the United States altogether, and current research suggests that cross-border trips have dropped by close to 42 per cent over the past year.

The Government of Canada website has always had an official ‘Travel Advice and Advisories’ page, found at: travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories. This page lists important warnings about countries all over the world – including the one right next door to us here in North America. While the United States is still considered to be a “normal security risk,” there have been new warnings added that travellers should be aware of.

High on the list is gun violence. With American citizens legally allowed to carry firearms, there’s an increased chance of mass shootings. Tourists run the risk of being randomly caught – quite literally – in public crossfires. A link on the advisories page leads to a website where travellers can learn more about active shooter preparedness.

Terrorism is also listed as an ongoing threat that could happen just about anytime. Locations listed as targets for terrorists include religious places, government buildings, schools and campuses, airports and transportation hubs, and hotels and attractions. A link on the advisories page will take you to the United States’ Department of Homeland Security (DHS) national terrorism public alert system.

Under entry and exit requirements, the page indicates that U.S. border agents have significant discretion in determining whether travellers can enter the country and they will strictly enforce entry requirements. Visitors should expect increased scrutiny upon entering the country. If someone is denied entry, there is a chance they could be detained while awaiting deportation.

When it comes to electronic devices, way down on the page it states that U.S. border agents are entitled to search phones, computers and tablets. No reason has to be stated, and passwords must be provided if asked. If you refuse to unlock your device, you will likely have it taken away and entry will be denied.

Biometrics are also being used more often at American ports of entry. As of Dec. 26, 2025, all Canadian citizens entering the U.S. via land, sea and air points of entry will be photographed, and facial recognition systems are frequently in place to verify the identity of people coming and going from the country. Digital fingerprints are also being requested of some travellers.

There is risk of entry restrictions based on gender. It is now recommended that anyone with a passport that shows gender ‘X’ as the identifier should verify requirements with the closest ‘foreign representative’ before travelling. Beyond that, you may still need to show additional information about sex and gender upon request.

Proof of Canadian citizenship has always been needed to enter the United States, and this has not changed. Proof can be a valid passport, a NEXUS card, or an official status card showing First Nation affiliation. Children under 15 require either a passport, a birth certificate, or a Canadian citizenship certificate.

Canadians staying for more than 30 days must now register with the United States government, with an ‘alien registration’ link available on the travel advisories page. Visitors can typically spend up to six months in the U.S. without needing an official visa. Upon entry, you are expected to declare how long you will be staying. In addition, you might be asked for the address where you will be staying in the country, evidence of your employment in Canada, proof of the reason for your trip, and whether you have enough money to adequately cover your stay.

With a still-growing list of advisories for entering the United States, my advice to you – and advice that I am currently heeding myself – is to just say no, and don’t go.

Instead, spend your vacation time in Canada this year. Get out and meet some new Canadian faces in spectacular places, as you get to know our own incredible country a little bit more.