Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, Congresswoman Laurel Lee (R-FL), and Congressman Greg Stanton (D-AZ) today introduced the Canadian Snowbird Visa Act, a bipartisan bill to extend the duration Canadian citizens who own or lease a residence in the United States may stay—from 182 days to 240 days annually.
“Our neighbors 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. “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.”
"I'm proud to introduce the Canadian Snowbird Visa Act because it’s a win for America’s economy. Canadian residents contribute billions of dollars each year to our small businesses, real estate markets, and local economies—especially here in Florida. 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 neighbors, and helping local communities thrive,” said Congresswoman Laurel Lee.
“We have been pleased to join with the Canadian Snowbird Association in support of this initiative,” said Garry Douglas, President of the North Country Chamber of Commerce, “conveying to our friends that we appreciate their extended stays, including in the North Country. We thank Congresswoman Stefanik for her continued leadership on this positive action and message.”
Under current U.S. immigration law, Canadian citizens can only stay in the United States for up to 182 days per year without a visa. The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act would allow eligible Canadians—aged 50 and over who either own or lease a U.S. residence—to extend their stay to up to 240 days annually.
The legislation includes important safeguards: it prohibits these individuals from working for U.S. employers or accessing public assistance programs and clarifies that they will retain their nonresident tax status.
This bipartisan bill reflects a shared commitment to supporting local economies, rebuilding cross-border tourism, and strengthening the U.S.-Canada relationship through smart, targeted immigration policy.
Read more about the bill here.
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