For years, Canadian snowbirds have been told the same thing: “Get an I-94 at the border.” But in 2025, many experienced travelers are discovering a simpler, more convenient alternative that saves time, money, and hassle at the border.
If you’re planning to stay 30 days or longer in the U.S., Form G-325R may be the easiest compliance option you’ve never heard about, and it’s time that changed.
Between tighter CBP screening, the rise of digital entry records, and renewed attention on visitor registration requirements, Canadian travelers need clearer, more practical guidance than ever. Whether you winter in Florida, Arizona, California, or anywhere south of the snowbelt, here is the real, updated information you need before crossing the border this season.
As Rosanna Berardi, Esq., Managing Partner at Berardi Immigration Law, puts it plainly:
“Snowbirds do best when they understand all their options. In 2025, Form G-325R offers a streamlined path that many travelers overlook, and it can make your entire stay simpler.”
The Truth About the “180-Day Rule” in 2025
Contrary to popular belief, there is no U.S. immigration law that gives Canadians an automatic right to stay six months per year.
Major points to understand:
- Most Canadians are admitted as B-1 (business) or B-2 (pleasure) visitors
- The maximum stay is generally up to six months, but a CBP officer may give less
- Each entry is discretionary and influenced by your past travel, purpose, and ties to Canada
CBP may limit your stay based on:
- The specific purpose you explained (e.g., a two-week vacation, a weekend event)
- Your overall travel pattern
- Whether you appear to be “living” in the U.S. on visitor status
If you told the officer you’re attending a three-day wedding, you may only be admitted for six months. If you’ve been bouncing between Florida and Ontario every few weeks, you may get a shortened stay, or more questions.
Understanding Your Registration Requirement
When Canadians cross by land without obtaining an I-94, a long-standing federal rule kicks in: if you stay 30 consecutive days or longer, you must register with USCIS.
This requirement catches thousands of snowbirds off guard each year, but it doesn’t have to be complicated.
Who Must Register?
Registration is required if you meet all of the following:
- You entered by land or sea
- You were not issued an I-94
- You remained (or plan to remain) 30 consecutive days or longer
The Simple Solution: Form G-325R
Form G-325R is the official registration form designed specifically for this purpose, and it’s surprisingly straightforward.
Available at: https://www.uscis.gov/forms/all-forms/g-325r
Why G-325R Is Often the Better Choice for Snowbirds
Many immigration advisors reflexively recommend getting an I-94 at every land crossing. But for snowbirds planning extended stays, Form G-325R offers several practical advantages:
- No Border Delays
Requesting an I-94 at the land border means routing through secondary inspection, adding 30-60 minutes (or more) to your crossing time during busy winter travel season.With G-325R, you cross normally and handle registration afterward, on your own schedule.
- No $30 Fee Per Entry
Every I-94 costs $30. If you make multiple trips during snowbird season, those fees add up quickly.G-325R registration is free and can be submitted online with no processing fee.
- Complete It at Your Convenience
Rather than dealing with forms and fees at the border, you can complete G-325R from your winter home in Florida, Arizona, or wherever you’re staying.The form is simple, straightforward, and can be prepared carefully without the pressure of a border crossing.
- One Registration Covers Your Stay
Once you register with Form G-325R, you’ve fulfilled your federal obligation for that stay period. You don’t need to repeat the process unless you leave and re-enter for another 30+ day period without an I-94.
- Less Documentation to Track
You don’t need to download and monitor digital I-94 records, check “until” dates, or worry about discrepancies in the online system. Your G-325R submission provides your compliance record.
How to Complete Form G-325R
The form requests basic biographical information:
- Full name, date and place of birth
- Current address (both U.S. and Canadian)
- Physical description
- Employment history
- Family information
Filing Instructions:
Complete the form and submit it online. Registration must be completed within 30 days of your arrival if staying 30+ consecutive days.
Special Child Rule: If a visitor turns 14 years old while inside the U.S., registration is required within 30 days, even if they were previously exempt.
When You Might Still Want an I-94
Form G-325R is ideal for most snowbirds, but there are situations where an I-94 makes more sense:
- If you’re flying into the U.S. (I-94 is automatic and you’re exempt from registration)
- If you need a specific documented admission period for legal or business purposes
- If you prefer having a digital record tied to your passport
For the typical land-crossing snowbird staying several months, however, G-325R is often the more practical choice.
Other Key Factors Snowbirds Must Understand in 2025
- Time in the U.S. vs. Time in Canada Matters
If you spend more days in the U.S. than in Canada, CBP may ask how you support yourself and whether you’re maintaining a true residence in Canada. Visitor status cannot be used to “live” in the U.S.
- Your Passport Must Be Valid for Your Entire Stay
CBP will not admit you beyond the date your passport expires.
- Health Coverage & Finances Are Increasingly Scrutinized
CBP can question your ability to support yourself without:
- Working in the U.S.
- Using local medical services without insurance
- Canadian Tax and Health Rules Are Separate
Immigration rules are not tax rules. Your days for OHIP, MSP, or provincial health insurance, and your CRA residency tests, must be calculated separately.
Snowbird Travel Tips for 2025
- Understand your registration options before you cross
- Keep a folder proving ties to Canada (home, employment, bills, insurance)
- Avoid long, continuous stays unless you have clear ties and strong evidence
- Do not work, volunteer, or study without proper authorization
- Stay organized with travel days; immigration, tax, and health systems all use different counting rules
As Rosanna Berardi reminds snowbirds:
“The smoothest travelers are the ones who prepare. Understanding Form G-325R is part of smart preparation. It’s not complicated, and it can save you significant time and hassle.”
Be Prepared to Cross the Border This Holiday Season
Canadian snowbird travel remains easy and enjoyable when you know the rules. In 2025, that means understanding your registration options, choosing the approach that fits your travel style, and staying compliant without unnecessary complications.
If you travel often or stay long-term, Berardi Immigration Law can help you map out safe, compliant travel plans so you can enjoy the sunshine without immigration worries.
Canadian Snowbird FAQs
Do Canadians automatically get six months in the U.S. per year?
No. Six months is a maximum, not an entitlement. CBP decides each stay on a case-by-case basis.
Do I need to file Form G-325R if I fly into the U.S.?
Usually no. If you’re issued an I-94 (common for air travelers), you’re exempt from the 30-day registration rule.
Is Form G-325R difficult to complete?
Not at all. It’s a straightforward biographical form that most snowbirds can complete in 15-20 minutes. Click this link for a step-by-step guide to filling out the form.
What happens if I don’t register when required?
Failing to register when required can create compliance issues and may complicate future entries or visa applications.
Can I use G-325R for multiple trips?
Each 30+ day stay period requires registration if you enter without an I-94. If you leave and return, you’ll need to register again for the next extended stay.
Planning a vacation across the border? Reach out to Berardi Immigration Law with your questions! We can keep you covered and compliant, so no border issues interrupt your well-deserved winter break.
Ready to have Berardi on your side?
Whether you’re a business looking to hire or a professional hoping to relocate, immigration law can be complicated. But you don’t have to do it alone. Put our experience to work for you.