Immigration Announcement
Canada – U.S. Relations Shift as New Snowbird Visa Act Offers Extended Stay Option
Canadian snowbirds—those retirees who head south to escape winter—may soon get a little more sun with fewer restrictions. A new U.S. bill is on the table that could allow them to extend their stay from 180 to 240 days without a visa. While this sounds like good news for thousands of Canadians, the reality on the ground is more complicated.
Political friction, new border rules, and growing uncertainty under the Trump administration have already driven down travel numbers and shaken confidence. The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act, introduced in April 2025, is being pitched as a way to win back the trust—and spending—of Canadian visitors. But will it work?
What is a Canadian Snowbird?
A “snowbird” is typically a Canadian retiree aged 50 or older who chooses to spend the colder months in the warmer climates of the United States. Florida, Arizona, and California are the most popular destinations.
Most snowbirds either own or rent a property in the U.S. and split their time while maintaining a permanent residence in Canada. This seasonal migration brings billions in spending to U.S. local economies every year.
What the Canadian Snowbird Visa Act Proposes
The proposed law, introduced by Reps. Elise Stefanik, Laurel Lee, and Greg Stanton want to give Canadian snowbirds more time to enjoy their southern retreat.
Key Details of the Act:
| Requirement | Criteria |
| Age Limit | Must be 50 years or older |
| Residency | Must maintain a permanent home in Canada |
| Property | Must own or lease a U.S. property |
| Extended Stay Duration | Increase from 180 days to 240 days |
The bill is framed as a win-win situation. U.S. towns that rely on seasonal Canadian spending would benefit, while Canadians would enjoy extended stays without the bureaucratic burden of visa applications.
But the bill comes during a time of rising tensions.
Canadian Snowbirds Face New Border Challenges
Even with this new proposal, many Canadian snowbirds are second-guessing their annual travel plans. Since Donald Trump’s re-election, a number of new measures have been introduced that impact even short visits.
What’s Changed?
- Canadians staying over 30 days may need to register with U.S. authorities
- Mandatory documentation of registration may be required while in the U.S.
- Public rhetoric about tighter borders and even calls for Canada to become the “51st state”
- Increased scrutiny and paperwork for those spending extended time stateside
All of this has created anxiety and hesitation. According to Statistics Canada, return visits by Canadian drivers to the U.S. dropped 32% in March 2025 compared to March 2024.
The Growing Trend: Snowbirds Selling Off U.S. Properties
This drop in travel isn’t just seasonal—it’s turning into a financial shift.
Many snowbirds are now putting their American properties on the market. Rising healthcare costs in the U.S., a weak Canadian dollar, and the potential red tape around new registration rules are contributing to a “snowbird sell-off.”
The Canadian Snowbird Association has criticized the new U.S. registration proposals, calling them “unnecessary burdens” that could reduce travel further. For many retirees, the hassle no longer outweighs the sunshine.
Why This Matters for the Canadian Snowbird Visa Act
The proposed extension to a 240-day stay might seem generous on paper, but the success of the Canadian Snowbird Visa Act will depend on how it’s received by wary travellers.
With so many Canadians opting to stay home or explore alternatives like Mexico or Portugal, the U.S. must do more than just extend vacation time—it must rebuild trust.
Can the U.S. Regain Snowbird Confidence?
The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act could be a small but meaningful step toward improving cross-border travel. Yet, without addressing the broader concerns—rising costs, political instability, and increased regulations—many snowbirds might keep their wings folded. To truly welcome Canadians back to their favorite winter retreats, the U.S. will need to offer more than just a few extra weeks in the sun.
