The Canadian government has updated its travel advisory for the United States, warning citizens to expect increased scrutiny at the border and potential detentions. The warning—issued on April 4—cites intensifying U.S. enforcement actions under the Trump administration, which have already drawn criticism from human rights groups and foreign allies alike.

Travelers are now advised that U.S. border agents may request access to electronic devices, including passwords, with little to no explanation. Refusal to comply can result in delays, denied entry, or confiscation of devices. The Canadian government has confirmed that travelers should not expect protections normally afforded in Canada when entering the U.S.

The advisory also highlights that Canadians staying longer than 30 days must now register with U.S. immigration authorities or face legal consequences. Meanwhile, new gender-related regulations have created additional hurdles for transgender travelers. The United States now only recognizes binary gender markers, and individuals whose documentation does not match their assigned birth sex may face entry issues.

The announcement comes amid a broader international shift. Germany, Ireland, Norway, and other European countries have all issued or updated travel warnings for the United States over the past month, citing similar concerns.

Beyond policy changes, the political climate is fueling a sharp downturn in cross-border movement. Canadian vehicle crossings have dropped by 23% compared to last year, and international flight bookings to the U.S. have plummeted. Public outcry over U.S. tariffs and threats of territorial claims against Canada have contributed to what some observers describe as a rapidly cooling relationship between Ottawa and Washington.

While the Canadian government continues to work diplomatically behind the scenes, the message to citizens is blunt: travel to the U.S. is no longer routine—and may carry real risk.