Proposed legislation in the U.S. might extend visa-free stays for Canadians.
Hey there! Looks like a bill could potentially change the game for Canadian snowbirds. The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act, if passed, might elongate their stay in the United States from a max of 180 days to a sweet 240 days. This bill, brought forward by Reps Stefanik, Lee, and Stanton, is all about providing more time for folks aged 50 and over who've both got a home up north and a south of the border digs.[1]
With many Canadians choosing to stay home due to trade wars, political tension, and rising costs, this act could bring a breath of fresh air. It's believed that prolonging Canadian snowbirds' visit would benefit local communities, job growth, and deepen ties with our close neighbors to the south.[2]
The bill comes as the U.S. is planning to make it mandatory for Canadians to register with the government if they stay for more than 30 days.[3] As of now, this bill is still in the pipeline, waiting for its moment in Congress.
Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development!
[1] The Canadian Press. (2025, May 10). Canadians could stay longer in U.S. without a visa if new bill passes. Retrieved from [URL redacted][2] The Canadian Snowbird Association. (n.d.). Canadian Snowbird Visa. Retrieved from [URL redacted][3] The Canadian Snowbird Association. (2023, August 22). U.S. Proposes New Registration Requirements. Retrieved from [URL redacted][4] The Canadian Snowbird Association. (2025, April 29). The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act - Your Questions Answered. Retrieved from [URL redacted][5] The Globe and Mail. (2023, September 10). Florida senators push for lifting visa restrictions on Canadian snowbirds. Retrieved from [URL redacted]
- The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act, if passed, could lead to an extension of Canadians' stay in the U.S., potentially allowing them to stay for up to 240 days instead of 180.
- This policy change, currently being deliberated in Congress, has been proposed by Reps Stefanik, Lee, and Stanton, targeting Canadians aged 50 and over who have homes in both Canada and the United States.
- With many Canadians electing to stay in Canada due to trade wars, political tension, and rising costs, the bill could offer a respite.
- Prolonging the visits of Canadian snowbirds is said to contribute positively to local communities, job growth, and strengthening ties with the U.S.
- The U.S. is considering making it compulsory for Canadians to register with the government if they stay for more than 30 days.
- The media is monitoring the development closely, covering general news and policy-and-legislation updates regarding the Canadian Snowbird Visa Act.
- Florida senators have also recently expressed their support for lifting visa restrictions on Canadian snowbirds, adding a political twist to the debate.
- As the bill progresses through Congress in 2025, the community awaits updates and agreements on the proposed policy changes that could impact the lives of countless snowbirds.
