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New Travel Advisories for Canadians Visiting the U.S. and China
Recent updates to travel advisories from the Canadian government have directed attention towards travel regulations in the United States and China, two significant destinations for Canadians. Ottawa has issued a warning for Canadians planning to stay in the United States for more than 30 days, emphasizing the necessity to register with the U.S. government.
The advisory regarding the U.S. follows an earlier update concerning travel to China. Canadian nationals holding dual citizenship are reminded to utilize their Canadian documentation when interacting with Chinese officials.
The U.S. travel advisory clearly states, “Canadians and other foreign nationals visiting the United States for periods longer than 30 days must be registered with the United States government.” It further warns that non-compliance with this mandate could result in penalties, fines, or even misdemeanor charges.
For those uncertain about their registration status, the advisory suggests consulting the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website for guidance on registration procedures.
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Currently, any Canadian who intends to travel to the U.S. over land for more than 30 days must register and is subject to fingerprinting. Visitors can verify their registration status by checking the I-94 admission form on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website upon entry.
Compounding these concerns, experts note that instances like the recent detention of a Vancouver woman for over a week by U.S. authorities after her work visa application was denied have potential implications for travel behaviors and perceptions regarding safety.
Concerns Over Travel to China
In tandem with the advisory for the U.S., Canada has also escalated its travel advisory for China due to serious recent developments, namely the execution of four Canadian nationals in connection with drug crimes. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly expressed grave concern over these actions, emphasizing the troubling nature of such incidents.
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Global Affairs Canada has voiced strong disapproval of these executions, pointing out the irreversible nature of the death penalty and its inconsistency with fundamental human rights principles. In response, China’s embassy in Canada has defended its judiciary, asserting that those who violate Chinese law must face consequences.
The revised advisory specifies a need for Canadians to exhibit “a high degree of caution” while in China, particularly for those with dual citizenship. There is a significant risk that such individuals may be restricted from accessing Canadian consular services if they arrive under Chinese identification.
The ability of Canadian authorities to provide support in China is limited, as noted in the advisory, due to the opaque nature of the Chinese legal system, which complicates matters of legal assistance.
Not only were the four executed Canadians dual citizens, but they also faced severe charges tied to drug-related offenses, further complicating their situations. Canada’s official stance strongly denounces the death penalty, advocating for upholding human dignity in such grave matters.
Moreover, the advisory emphasizes that even non-violent financial crimes could lead to harsh repercussions in China. The risk of an exit ban is particularly concerning for travelers, especially those who may be unknowingly connected to individuals who are currently involved in civil or criminal investigations, including business disputes.
Officials in Ottawa have cautioned travelers that they might not be aware of any exit bans until they attempt to navigate departure through Chinese customs and immigration.
Source
www.cbc.ca