On February 4, 2025, both the Canadian and American flags are seen flying together at the Lewiston-Queenston border crossing in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Getty Images
A new bill, introduced on April 29, promises to change the rules for Canadian snowbirds who spend part of the year in the United States. This bill, called the Canadian Snowbird Visa Act, would allow Canadian citizens who own or lease a home in the U.S. to stay for up to 240 days each year. Currently, the limit is 182 days. This new legislation would give Canadians nearly two more months in the U.S. each year.
Why This Bill is Important for Canadians
The Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) has worked closely with U.S. lawmakers to push this bill. The association, which represents over 100,000 members, expressed excitement about its reintroduction. They believe the bill is a step in the right direction and recognizes the impact Canadian snowbirds have on the U.S. economy, especially in the southern states. The CSA highlighted that Canadian visitors spend more than $20 billion each year in the U.S.
The bill would give Canadian snowbirds greater flexibility in their travel plans, allowing them to enjoy longer stays in the U.S. It also reflects the importance of cross-border tourism between Canada and the U.S.
Economic Boost for U.S. States
Congressman Ken Calvert, who co-sponsored the bill, sees it as a way to boost the economy, especially in areas like the Coachella Valley in California. This region relies heavily on Canadian visitors. “Canadians own an estimated seven percent of all homes in the Coachella Valley,” he said. “The Snowbird Visa Act would allow them to stay longer, making an even bigger contribution to our local economy.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom has also worked to attract Canadian visitors. He noted that last year, 1.8 million Canadians visited California, spending $3.72 billion. Newsom emphasized that California values its Canadian visitors and that this bill would only help strengthen the relationship.
Florida: A Popular Destination for Canadians
Florida is another state where many Canadians spend their winters. Congresswoman Laurel Lee, a Florida representative, co-sponsored the bill and highlighted its importance for her state. “Canadian residents contribute billions of dollars each year to our local economies, especially here in Florida,” Lee said. “By allowing Canadians to stay longer, we’re supporting job growth and strengthening ties between our countries.”
The bill also addresses issues that arose earlier this year in Florida. Some Canadians faced difficulties with new registration requirements that threatened to limit their stays. This bill would provide a clearer and more welcoming policy for Canadians.
A Win for U.S.-Canada Relations
This bill is not just a win for Canadian snowbirds but also for U.S.-Canada relations. It acknowledges the significant role that Canadians play in the U.S. tourism market. According to New York Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, “Canadians are critically important to North Country tourism and industry.” The bill’s introduction is seen as a step towards rebuilding cross-border tourism and strengthening economic ties between the two countries.
The bill includes safeguards to ensure that Canadian snowbirds will not work for U.S. employers or access public assistance programs. It also ensures that they will retain their nonresident tax status while benefiting from the longer stays.
