US 30-day registration for Canadians: the 2026 guide

Updated October 6, 2026 · Border and immigration · By the Escale Floride editorial team (how we work)

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Short answer If you're 14 or older and stay in the US for 30 days or more, you must be registered. An I-94 (automatic when you fly) or a NEXUS card already counts as registration. Otherwise, file Form G-325R online: it's free and takes about 15 minutes.

Where does this rule come from?

US law has long required foreigners staying 30 days or more to register, but it was barely enforced for Canadians. The US government began enforcing it on April 11, 2025. A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) final rule made it permanent on June 29, 2026.

What do you need to do?

Your situation	What to do
Stay under 30 days	Nothing
Arriving by plane	Nothing: your electronic I-94 counts as registration
Driving in with a NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST or Global Entry card	Nothing: these cards count as registration under the final rule
Driving in with an I-94 requested at the border or online	Nothing: the I-94 counts as registration
Driving in without an I-94 or NEXUS, staying 30 days or more	File Form G-325R on myUSCIS before day 30
Children under 14	Parents register them (same rule)

How to file Form G-325R

Create a free account on myUSCIS (USCIS's official site). Beware of sites that charge for this.
Fill out Form G-325R online: identity, passport, US address, dates of stay.
Canadians don't need to give fingerprints.
Download and print your proof of registration.

The form is free and must be filed within 30 days of arrival. If you leave the US and come back for a new stay, check USCIS's site to see whether you need to file again.

Do you need to carry proof?

Yes. Adults must carry proof of registration at all times: a printed I-94, a NEXUS card or the G-325R confirmation. A photo on your phone is handy, but keep a paper copy too.

What are the penalties?

Failing to register is an offence that can bring a fine of up to US$5,000 and up to 6 months in jail. It can also complicate future US entries. The risk is easy to avoid: registration is free and fast.

Other changes to know

I-94 when driving: the fee is US$30 since September 30, 2025 (up from $6).
Border photos: since December 26, 2025, the US can photograph all non-citizens, Canadians included, on entry and exit.
Length of stay: Canadians are generally admitted for up to 6 months per entry, at the officer's discretion.

Key takeaways

14 or older, 30 days or more: registration is mandatory.
I-94 or NEXUS: you're already registered.
Otherwise: free Form G-325R on myUSCIS, no fingerprints.
Carry your proof with you.

Leave without forgetting anything

The complete checklist: more than 65 items to tick off, from 2 months before you leave until you're back. 6-page PDF, 2026 rules.

See the checklist ($9)

Official sources

General information only, not legal or immigration advice. US entry rules change: check with USCIS and CBP before you go.