Windsor snowbirds express frustration over new U.S. travel policy

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Windsor “Snowbirds” are frustrated by a new U.S. travel policy, which may require them to register with U.S. immigration authorities if they stay in the southern part of the border for more than 30 days.

“If there is no deterrent to visit the United States, there is now,” said retiree Mark McCondach, who spent three winters in Savannah, Georgia. “It’s frustrating and nothing is done except sowing confusion.”

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The new policy stems from the executive order of US President Donald Trump on January 20 and is expected to take effect on April 11.

All visitors aged 14 and older under the “Protect the American People from Invasion” Order – Including Canadians – If they stay at the border for 30 days or more, unissued Electronic I-94 admission records will be required to register with the U.S. government.

Canadians traveling to the United States through the air will automatically issue admission records and will be considered registered. But those who enter through the land port – For example, Ambassador Bridge or Windsor Tunnel –This form may not be received and registration is required with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service.

The policy comes as a result of rising tensions between the United States and Canada, including inappropriate tariffs on Canadian goods and repeated comments from Trump about making Canada the 51st state.

McCondach, uneasy about political uncertainty, decided to lay off employees this year.

“This is the first time we have shortened our stay and the first time we have not reserved next year,” he told the Star. “We are a little sour in this place this year due to all the political rhetoric.

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“It’s offensive and personal.”

When asked about his experience as a Canadian snowbird in the United States, McCondach called it “weird”, noting that most locals “are largely unaware” of the rising tensions between the two countries.

“It’s like they sleepwalking in all the things that affect them,” he said. “Our feelings are not reflected in the feelings of the people living around us.”

Windsor immigration attorney Drew Porter, who has licensed in Ontario and Michigan, said the policy change could be a burden for residents of Windsor-Essex, who prefer to spend the winter south of the border. But “there is nothing at the moment,” he said, so that’s not a major issue.

“It’s frustrating, disturbing, but it’s playing right now,” Porter said. “I can’t see any positive action given the demands that are coming.”

Canadian Snowbirds will need to print their I-94 and carry them with you as proof of registration and legal entry, according to the Canadian Snowbird Association, a national nonprofit organization representing more than 100,000 members.

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The association encourages Snowbirds to check whether forms have been issued, which can be done by visiting the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.

As for McCondage, he has no plans to return to the United States anytime soon.

“This relationship has been cut off,” McCondach said. “I certainly wouldn’t consider returning to the United States before the regime changes and Trump lost his job.

“I can’t control the policy, I can’t control the speech, but what I can control is where and how to spend the money.”

– Documents with state postal

mholmeshill@postmedia.com

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