The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced new registration requirements for Canadian visitors under the Protecting the American People Against Invasion executive order. Effective April 11, 2025, Canadian citizens staying in the U.S. for 30 days or longer without an electronic Form I-94 will be required to register with the federal government. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and avoid potential travel issues.
Who Needs to Register?
The new rule applies to Canadian citizens aged 14 and older who:
- Enter the U.S. by land and do not receive an electronic Form I-94 upon entry.
- Stay in the U.S. for 30 days or longer.
- Have not already registered through an electronic Form I-94 issuance.
Who Is Already Registered?
Canadian citizens traveling by air to the U.S. are automatically issued an electronic Form I-94 and are therefore already registered. If you entered the U.S. through a land border, you may need to take additional steps to register.
How to Check If You Have an Electronic I-94
Before proceeding with registration, Canadian visitors should check if you have an electronic Form I-94:
- Visit the official I-94 website.
- Click “Get Most Recent I-94” and agree to the terms of service.
- Enter your traveler information, including:
- First and last name
- Date of birth
- Country of citizenship
- Passport number
- If your latest I-94 appears, you are already registered, and no further action is required.
- Print your I-94 and carry it as proof of legal entry into the U.S.
If an electronic Form I-94 was not issued, you must register with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) by submitting Form G-325R.
How to Register if You Don’t Have an Electronic I-94
If you did not receive an electronic Form I-94, follow these steps to register with USCIS:
Step 1: Create a USCIS Account
- Visit USCIS Online Account.
- Follow these instructions to set up an account.
Step 2: Complete Form G-325R
- Fill out Form G-325R (Biographic Information – Registration) online.
- This form must be submitted electronically through your USCIS account (no mail or in-person filing allowed).
- Provide the following details:
- Full legal name
- Date and place of birth
- Date and place of U.S. entry
- Current U.S. address and contact information
- Immigration status
- Criminal history (if applicable)
Step 3: Obtain Proof of Registration
- After submitting Form G-325R, USCIS will issue a Proof of G-325R Registration Notice.
- You can download and print this notice from your USCIS account.
- Carry a printed copy of your Proof of G-325R Registration as evidence of compliance with the new rule.
Important Notes for Canadian Travelers
- Canadian citizens are exempt from fingerprinting (biometrics).
- Snowbirds should check their I-94 status before extended stays in the U.S.
- Failure to register could lead to travel disruptions or issues at the border.
Need Help with U.S. Immigration Compliance?
Understanding U.S. immigration rules can be complex, but Visaserve Immigration Law P.C. is here to help. Our expert immigration attorneys can guide you through the I-94 verification and registration process to ensure you remain compliant with the new regulations.
📞 Book a consultation with Visaserve Immigration Law P.C. today!