UPDATED: 2026 October 05

Planning to spend part of the winter in the United States? Before you leave, it may be worth taking a moment to review some of the entry and registration requirements that continue to apply to extended stays.

Registration requirements for foreign nationals staying in the United States for 30 days or more remain in effect. While many Canadians are automatically registered upon entry, some travellers should ensure that all required registration formalities have been completed.

 

 

New in 2026: NEXUS Travellers

Good news for frequent travellers. Individuals entering the United States using the NEXUS program are generally considered already registered for the purposes of U.S. requirements applicable to stays of 30 days or longer.

 

 

Arrival by Air or Sea

In most cases, travellers arriving in the United States by air or sea are automatically issued an electronic I-94 form upon arrival.

However, it is recommended that travellers verify that an I-94 has been issued and that all information contained in the record is accurate.

 

 

Arrival by Land

Travellers entering the United States by land should pay particular attention to registration requirements, as an I-94 is not automatically issued in the same manner as it typically is for air or sea arrivals.

Where applicable, travellers are encouraged to apply for an I-94 prior to departure, up to seven days before crossing the border. Doing so may help expedite processing upon arrival and avoid additional administrative steps.

A government fee of USD $30 applies. Apply for an I-94.

If an I-94 is not issued upon entry into the United States, an additional registration process may be required by U.S. authorities, including through the G-325R form.

This process is free of charge, but it generally involves a more in-depth information collection process than the issuance of an I-94. Travellers may be required to provide additional personal information through a more detailed questionnaire.

 

 

Who Is Affected?

Registration requirements may apply to:

  • Travellers aged 14 and older staying in the United States for 30 days or more;
  • Parents or legal guardians of children under age 14;
  • Certain individuals entering the United States by land who are not otherwise considered registered.

 

 

Practical Tips

Before You Leave

Review the requirements applicable to your situation and, where necessary, complete your I-94 application before arriving at the border.

Once in the United States

Confirm that your I-94 has been issued and keep a copy of your registration record with you throughout your stay. You can verify your record through:

 

If You Leave and Re-Enter the United States

If you leave the United States and return by land during your stay, remember to verify whether new registration requirements or a new I-94 may be required upon re-entry.

 

 

In Summary

If you plan to stay in the United States for 30 days or more, take a few minutes before departure to confirm that you meet all applicable registration requirements. This simple step may help you avoid complications during your stay or at a future border crossing.

For the latest information, consult the following official resources:

Prepared with the collaboration of MarcAndré Séguin, Immigration Lawyer at Exeo.