DHS submits new rule for Canadians entering US to get fingerprinted, registered

The United States will now require Canadians visiting for more than 30 days to register with authorities and have their fingerprints taken, according to a new interim final rule from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This new requirement, which goes into effect on April 11, applies to all foreign nationals who cross the U.S.-Canada land border and are at least 14 years old and stay in the U.S. for 30 days or more.

The rule, which was submitted to the Federal Registrar on Wednesday, comes amidst an escalating trade war between the United States and Canada. On the same day, Canada announced $21 billion in new tariffs on the U.S. This change will impact some Canadians who were previously exempt from this requirement, including many Canadian snowbirds who spend winter months in U.S. states. Now, they must register with the government or face fines.

Children under age 14, whose parents or guardians must register them, will not be fingerprinted. Biometrics will also be waived for Canadian business and tourist visitors who enter by land, but they must still register if they remain in the country for 30 days or more. The affected population by this rule is estimated to be between 2.2 million and 3.2 million, according to the DHS.

The DHS and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have acknowledged their intention to follow President Donald Trump’s Inauguration Day executive order requiring all immigrants to register with the U.S. government. The executive order directs DHS to ensure all immigrants are registered under the Immigration and Nationality Act, which mandates that noncitizens over 14 years old must register and be fingerprinted within 30 days of entry.

Failure to comply with the registration requirement may result in criminal and civil penalties, including fines and incarceration. USCIS has established a new form, G-325R, Biometric Information (Registration), and an online process for unregistered aliens to comply with the law as required by the INA.

Registration is not an immigration status, and registration documentation does not create an immigration status or provide any other right or benefit under U.S. law. The USCIS emphasized that aliens over the age of 18 must carry proof of registration at all times.

This new requirement is part of the U.S. government’s efforts to enhance border security and immigration enforcement. It is important for Canadians and other foreign nationals to comply with the registration process to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth entry and stay in the United States.