Canada Updates Travel Rules for U.S. and China Visitors
Canadians planning to travel to the United States or China should review newly updated travel rules advisories. The Government of Canada has issued fresh warnings related to extended stays in the U.S. and dual citizenship concerns in China. These updates follow recent diplomatic developments and legal changes in both countries.
What Canadians Need to Know Before Visiting the U.S.
New U.S. Travel Rule Starts April 11
Starting April 11, 2025, Canadians and other foreign nationals who stay in the U.S. for more than 30 days must register with the U.S. government. This change is part of a broader immigration policy shift under U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order titled “Protecting the American People Against Invasion.”
Key points:
- Registration is mandatory for stays longer than 30 days.
- Penalties include fines or possible misdemeanor charges for non-compliance.
- Travellers can check their I-94 form via the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website to confirm automatic registration.
- The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website provides full details on how to register.
These rules may affect Canadian snowbirds, temporary workers, and other long-term visitors. Immigration experts recommend verifying travel documents and length of stay before departure.
Growing Caution Among Canadians
Many Canadians are reconsidering or adjusting U.S. travel plans. Factors include:
- Tariffs imposed by the U.S.
- President Trump’s past remarks suggesting Canada join the U.S. as a 51st state
- Reports of border detentions involving Canadian and European nationals
Heightened Concerns for Canadians Traveling to China
Consular Risks for Dual Citizens
The Canadian government also updated its advisory for China. Authorities now warn Canadians with dual citizenship to enter using their Canadian passport. Failure to do so may result in denial of consular assistance.
“Our ability to provide consular assistance in China is limited,” the advisory states.
This follows the execution of four Canadian nationals in China in recent months. All individuals held dual citizenship and were convicted of drug-related charges.
China’s Legal System Raises Red Flags
Global Affairs Canada emphasized the lack of transparency in China’s judicial system. Key warnings in the advisory include:
- Non-violent offenses like financial crimes may result in severe sentences.
- Individuals tied to civil or criminal matters may face exit bans.
- Exit bans are often not disclosed until travellers attempt to leave China.
China does not legally recognize dual citizenship, which can complicate legal proceedings and limit Canadian diplomatic access.
Broader Impact and Global Reactions
Other countries, including the United Kingdom and Germany, have also updated their U.S. travel advisories. This reflects broader concerns over immigration enforcement and detentions at U.S. borders.
In Canada, the advisory changes reflect Ottawa’s effort to protect citizens abroad while navigating tense diplomatic conditions.
For extended U.S. stays, check your registration status and immigration documentation. In China, dual citizens should use Canadian ID to avoid complications.
The full advisories are available at travel.gc.ca.
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