Canadian Snowbirds Report Inconsistent Fingerprinting at U.S. Border

UPDATE: Canadian snowbirds are experiencing significant challenges at the U.S. border due to “inconsistent” fingerprinting rules, raising urgent concerns for winter travelers. Reports from the Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) indicate that new regulations implemented in March are causing confusion, especially for those staying longer than 30 days.

Just announced changes by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) require foreign nationals, including Canadians, to register with the government to avoid penalties. Despite assurances from U.S. authorities about uniform fingerprinting and photographing procedures, travelers report varying experiences depending on the border officer and location.

“The process appears to vary depending on the individual border officer and location,” the CSA stated, emphasizing the need for clarity. As many as 39 million Canadian trips to the U.S. were recorded in 2024, making this issue critical for a large number of travelers.

The CSA advises members to continue crossing the border as they normally would but urges them to verify whether an I-94 form has been issued upon arrival. If it has, travelers can simply print it for their records. However, if the I-94 is not issued, they must file a G-325R form with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 30 days of entry.

There are reports that some U.S. border officers require the I-94 form to be completed at the time of entry, which may lead to a “secondary inspection.” During this inspection, travelers could be subjected to fingerprinting or photographing and face a processing fee of $30 for the I-94.

This situation is evolving rapidly. Travelers should remain vigilant and prepared for potential delays or additional requirements when crossing the border. The changes are part of wider efforts by the previous administration to tighten immigration controls, now affecting Canadian travelers directly.

For many snowbirds, this season’s travel plans may hinge on understanding and navigating these new regulations. Authorities confirm that clarity is needed as the winter season approaches, impacting countless Canadian families eager to enjoy time in the U.S.

As the situation develops, the CSA continues to monitor the impact of these rules on Canadian travelers, urging members to share their experiences to ensure that everyone is prepared for potential inconsistencies at the border.