What Visa Do Canadian Snowbirds Need When Staying in Florida?

Canadians own more Florida real estate than any other foreign nationality, and some reports state that the value of this property could number in the billions. However, purchasing a home in Florida and actually living in it for an extended period are two very different things. In order to remain in Florida for the winter months, you might need to carefully consider your visa requirements. Consider scheduling a consultation with a Palm Beach Gardens immigration lawyer to continue this important discussion.

The Dangers of Remaining in Florida for More Than Six Months 

Under current law, Canadians receive preferential treatment when it comes to remaining in the United States. Due to long-standing treaties and agreements between these two allied countries, Canadians can remain in the United States for up to six months. There are no complex visa requirements, and you do not need to hire a lawyer.

That said, the consequences of remaining in Florida for more than six months can be severe. This could be considered an “unlawful presence” by US authorities, and it may prevent you from re-entering the United States for an extended period. This travel ban may be highly problematic, especially if you have recently purchased a home in Palm Beach Gardens. If you overstay your visa for more than one year, you could be banned from re-entering the USA for a decade.

On the other hand, there are a few legitimate reasons for overstaying your maximum six-month stay in the United States. Elderly senior snowbirds may become too sick or injured to move, and this could result in an extension. An experienced lawyer can assist with extension applications, and these applications must be filed with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act 

In the summer of 2023, American lawmakers introduced the “Canadian Snowbird Visa Act,” which could allow Canadian snowbirds to stay in the United States for longer periods. The success of this bill is far from guaranteed, but it could extend your stay in Florida by two months if it ever passes.

On the other hand, recent tensions between Canada and the United States may make it even more difficult to stay in Florida during the winter months. Snowbirds should speak with immigration lawyers to determine the most recent developments in this space.

What Happens if I Want to Stay Forever? 

Many Canadian snowbirds fall in love with Florida – and you might not want to return to the True North. If this is the case, you can work with an immigration lawyer to pursue permanent residence or citizenship.

Can a Palm Beach Gardens Immigration Lawyer Help Canadian Snowbirds? 

A Palm Beach Gardens immigration lawyer may be able to help Canadian snowbirds remain in Florida throughout the winter months. If you want to truly escape the bitter Canadian winters, you must first obtain the necessary visa. Schedule a consultation with The Devore Law Group to get started with an effective action plan – and streamline your winter getaway to Florida.

Source 

theglobeandmail.com/investing/article-snowbirds-beware-canadians-who-own-homes-in-florida-will-find-it-a-lot/

cbc.ca/news/canada