Canadians should ‘expect scrutiny’ at U.S. border crossings, feds warn

Cars line up to enter the U.S. from Canada at the Peace Arch border crossing Monday, Nov. 8, 2021, in Blaine, Wash. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

The Canadian government is warning those headed to the United States to expect to be scrutinized by border authorities, telling travellers to be forthcoming during any interaction with customs agents.

The federal government updated its travel advisory on Friday, warning Canadians of possible detention should one be denied entry to the United States.

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

The government also warned that travellers should expect to be heavily questioned and may have their electronic devices searched.

“Individual border agents often have significant discretion in making those determinations,” the advisory reads. “U.S. authorities strictly enforce entry requirements. Expect scrutiny at ports of entry, including of electronic devices.”

United States Customs and Border Protection agents have long had the power to search electronic devices, usually looking for evidence of a possible crime.

Speaking to CTV News Vancouver earlier this week, a B.C.-based immigration lawyer suggested that border agents aren’t just looking for evidence of a crime, but whether the traveller aligns with the U.S. administration and its policies.

“The issue is that border officers have full discretion in order to grant somebody admission, and they can deny somebody admission for any reason,” Cindy Switzer said.

The lawyer’s comments come in the wake of a French scientist being denied entry to the U.S. after border agents read the contents of his cellphone. The scientist was deported after border officials accused him of having “hateful” messages against U.S. policy.

The Canadian government also warned Friday travellers should be prepared to show proof of legal status at any time during their stay in the U.S.

“Authorities may request proof of legal status in the U.S. at any time,” reads the advisory. “Be prepared to show evidence of your legal presence in the U.S.”

With files from CTV News Vancouver’s Ben Miljure