The United States is considering a new bill that would allow Canadian snowbirds to stay longer without a visa, as tensions around President Donald Trump’s border policies continue to affect travel habits. The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act, introduced in late April 2025, proposes extending visa-free stays from 180 to 240 days for eligible Canadians aged 50 and over.
The bill is a direct response to declining travel from Canada and aims to rebuild economic ties weakened by recent political strains and new regulatory hurdles.
On This Page, You Will Find:
- What is a snowbird?
- Details of the new U.S. bill
- How Trump-era policies have affected Canadians
- Why some snowbirds are selling U.S. homes
- Answers to common questions
What Is a Snowbird?
A snowbird is a Canadian who travels to the United States, usually during the winter months, to avoid the cold. Most are retirees who spend several months each year in warmer states like Florida, Arizona, and California. Snowbirds often own or lease property in the U.S. while maintaining a primary residence in Canada.
What the Bill Proposes
The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act, brought forward by Reps. Elise Stefanik (New York), Laurel Lee (Florida), and Greg Stanton (Arizona), would extend the allowed stay in the U.S. for qualifying Canadians from six months (180 days) to eight months (240 days).
To be eligible, Canadian citizens must be:
- Aged 50 or older
- Maintaining a permanent residence in Canada
- Owning or leasing a U.S. property
According to the bill’s sponsors, the goal is to boost the U.S. economy, especially in communities that rely heavily on Canadian seasonal residents. “We’re supporting job growth, strengthening our bond with our closest neighbours, and helping local communities thrive,” said Rep. Lee.
Challenges for Snowbirds Under Trump
Despite warmer relations between Trump and Prime Minister Mark Carney, many snowbirds remain wary of the U.S. political climate. Since Trump’s re-election:
- New travel registration requirements have been introduced for Canadians staying over 30 days
- The U.S. has pushed for Canadians to carry documentation of their registration
- There’s been public talk of Canada becoming the 51st U.S. state, a move widely rejected by Canadians
These developments, combined with the lower Canadian dollar and rising U.S. health insurance costs, have led to a noticeable pullback from Canadian travellers. Statistics Canada reported a 32% drop in return trips by Canadian drivers from the U.S. in March 2025 compared with the same time last year.
Snowbirds Selling Off U.S. Properties
The uncertainty has triggered a “snowbird sell-off,” with some Canadians choosing to offload their U.S. homes and skip the southern migration altogether. The Canadian Snowbird Association has voiced strong opposition to the new registration requirements, warning that they pose “an unnecessary burden” and could discourage travel even further.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies under the Canadian Snowbird Visa Act?
Canadian citizens aged 50 or over who maintain a home in Canada and own or lease property in the U.S. would qualify for the proposed 240-day visa-free stay.
Why are some Canadian snowbirds selling their U.S. homes?
Uncertainty around new U.S. registration rules, Trump’s political rhetoric, and rising insurance costs are making U.S. stays less appealing for Canadian retirees.
Do Canadians currently need a visa to visit the U.S.?
No. Canadians can stay in the U.S. without a visa for up to 180 days. The proposed law would increase this period for eligible snowbirds to 240 days.
What is the new U.S. registration rule for Canadians?
Canadians staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days may soon need to register with U.S. authorities and carry proof of that registration at all times.
How are Canada–U.S. relations affecting snowbird travel?
Strained political relations and Trump’s push for tighter border rules have discouraged many Canadians from travelling, contributing to a significant drop in cross-border visits.
