Canadians could face detention if denied U.S. entry, Ottawa warns

The federal government is urging Canadians travelling to the U.S. to be "forthcoming" with border agents, and warns if denied entry some people could be detained.

Canadians taking a trip across the U.S. border are being advised to cooperate and be “forthcoming” when speaking with authorities at the crossing, adding they could face detention if denied entry.

In a travel advisory updated Friday, the federal government says Canadians should “expect scrutiny” when crossing ports of entry and to expect questioning and potential search of their electronic devices.

“Comply and be forthcoming in all interactions with border authorities,” the advisory reads. “If you are denied entry, you could be detained while awaiting deportation.”

The update comes amid growing tensions between the two countries, with U.S. President Donald Trump having imposed various tariffs on Canada.

In the months since the tariffs threats began, Canadian travel south of the border has plunged.

In B.C., for example, slightly more than 3,300 vehicles crossed at the Peace Arch on both March 17 and March 24, compared to more than 10,100 on the same days in 2024.

Trips by religious and school groups have also been axed in the wake of changes.

A gathering of the North American Interfaith Network to be held in Nova Scotia has been postponed indefinitely due to border concerns, while a Moncton high school band trip to New York City was also cancelled with the school district saying the political climate raised concerns.