"Snowbird Act" could let Canadians soak up U.S. sun for longer

U.S. lawmakers have proposed a bill aimed at boosting cross-border tourism by allowing certain Canadian snowbirds to stay in the United States for a longer period.

The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act would let eligible Canadian citizens aged 50 and older remain in the U.S. for up to 240 days annually—an increase from the current 182-day limit, reports CTV News.

Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, who represents New York’s 21st District bordering Canada and Vermont, helped introduce the bill on April 29 in the House of Representatives.

She emphasized that Canadian visitors play a vital role in supporting tourism and local economies in her region.

READ MORE: Canadian travel to U.S. remains resilient despite headwinds, says DACC

“Our neighbours to the north provide more visits to the United States than any other country, and they are critically important to North Country tourism and industry,” said Congresswoman Stefanik in a press release. “Providing Canadians who own homes and property in the United States with extra time to visit and boost our economy will help revive Canadian tourism to the United States.”

Republican Ken Calvert of California’s 41st District, who co-sponsored the bill, is pushing its passage to also help local businesses in his region.

“This new policy will ultimately create jobs and expand economic growth in the Coachella Valley,” Calvert said in a press release May 1, noting that the region’s economy is fuelled by visitors to cities like Palm Springs and Coachella, including ones from Canada.

Republican Congresswoman Laurel Lee of Florida’s 15th District says Canadians contribute billions of dollars each year to small businesses, real estate markets, and local economies, especially in the Sunshine State.

“I’m proud to co-sponsor the Canadian Snowbird Visa Act because it’s a win for America’s economy,” she said in a May 1 press release. “By extending the time Canadian visitors who own or lease homes can spend here, we’re supporting job growth, strengthening our bond with our closest neighbours, and helping local communities thrive.”

READ MORE: New guide helps Canadian snowbirds navigate U.S. registration requirements

The legislation includes safeguards: it prohibits individuals from working for U.S. employers or accessing public assistance programs and clarifies that they will retain their non-resident tax status.

Trump talk, Canada pushback

The bill is being introduced amid ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Canada, fuelled by President Donald Trump’s policies, the ongoing trade war, and his controversial remarks about making Canada the 51st state.

In response, many Canadians have chosen to boycott the U.S. by limiting travel and avoiding American-made products

It also comes at a time when the U.S. has started enforcing a rule, effective April 11, that applies to anyone in the country without legal status—including Canadians.

Under this policy, all visitors staying in the U.S. for 30 days or more must register with federal authorities and carry proper documentation. Failure to comply could result in fines or even jail time.

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