Amid growing concerns about U.S. border policies, immigration lawyers warn Canadians to expect increased scrutiny when traveling south. Experts suggest carrying additional documents and even a burner phone to protect privacy.
Toronto-based immigration lawyers Heather Segal and Ravi Jain report a surge in client inquiries about border crossings, with many fearing detention or denial of entry. The lawyers advise that travelers leaving from Canadian airports with U.S. preclearance have more rights than those crossing by land, where U.S. authorities have greater control.
A major concern is the search and seizure of electronic devices. U.S. customs officials can examine phones, social media, and even download device data. To safeguard personal information, some travelers are opting to leave their main devices at home.
Recent changes under U.S. immigration policies, including a new registration rule for Canadians staying over 30 days, have added to the anxiety. Travel agents report a decline in U.S. trips, particularly among Iranian-Canadians, due to fears of border questioning.
With security tightening, experts recommend arriving early, carrying proof of employment and residency, and being mindful of social media activity before heading to the U.S.
Source: Swifteradio.com
