Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The Canadian government has revised its travel advisory for citizens heading to the United States, warning travelers to prepare for heightened security checks and possible scrutiny at U.S. border crossings. The update comes a month after Canadian actress Jasmine Mooney — known for her role in American Pie — was reportedly detained by U.S. immigration authorities in San Diego, California.
Stricter Checks and Device Screenings
In the advisory updated on April 4, Ottawa cautioned Canadian travelers to be “compliant and forthcoming” when interacting with U.S. border officials. The updated guidance also notes that American authorities are authorized to inspect electronic devices, including phones and laptops.
“US authorities strictly enforce entry requirements. Expect scrutiny at ports of entry, including of electronic devices,” the advisory states.
The advisory also warned that travelers could be detained if they are denied entry.
“If you are denied entry, you could be detained while awaiting deportation,” it added.
Passport Requirements and New Entry Rules
Canada also reminded travelers using temporary or emergency travel documents to verify entry requirements in advance with the appropriate U.S. diplomatic mission, as different rules may apply depending on the type of documentation.
This marks the second update to Canada’s U.S. travel guidance following a diplomatic rift between former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Donald Trump. The first update, introduced earlier this year, made it mandatory for Canadians staying in the U.S. longer than 30 days to register with U.S. authorities — a rule set to take effect on April 11.
This measure stems from a Trump-era executive order that directs the Department of Homeland Security to enforce the Immigration and Nationality Act, which requires foreign nationals over 14 years old who remain in the U.S. for more than 30 days to be registered and fingerprinted.
Jasmine Mooney’s Detention Raises Eyebrows
Though the advisory does not directly reference her, the update comes on the heels of the detention of actress Jasmine Mooney, who was held in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody for 12 days. Mooney’s case drew widespread media attention and sparked questions about treatment of Canadians at U.S. borders.
While Ottawa has not explicitly linked the advisory to Mooney’s case, her detention has amplified calls for greater transparency and safeguards for Canadian citizens traveling abroad.
Canadians planning to travel to the U.S. are advised to monitor government updates, carry valid documentation, and be prepared for extensive checks — especially if their stay exceeds 30 days.
