For Mary Ann and Mike Jeffries, Florida has been their warm-weather escape for the past 15 years — a place to unwind and avoid harsh Canadian winters. But recent political shifts in the U.S. have turned their seasonal sanctuary into a place that feels less inviting.
The couple, who live in Moncton, New Brunswick, recently made a difficult decision: they will no longer return to their Florida home.
“We never thought we’d walk away,” Mary Ann admitted.
Why Are Canadian Snowbirds Concerned?
Like thousands of other Canadian snowbirds, the Jeffries have enjoyed the Sunshine State for years. But a recent U.S. government policy has introduced new challenges for foreign visitors.
Under this policy, foreign nationals staying for more than 30 days must now register with the U.S. government. This rule extends to Canadians who enter the U.S. by land — a group that was previously overlooked in border documentation processes.
The change is part of the “Protecting the American People Against Invasion” executive order, signed by former U.S. President Donald Trump on January 20.
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Shocking News for Canadian Travelers
The Jeffries were caught off guard when they received an alert about the policy from the Canadian Snowbird Association.
“We were shocked,” said Mary Ann. “Every year, we hand over our passports and fill out forms. We thought they knew about our movements already.”
Discomfort with Political Language
While the Jeffries understand the need for stricter border regulations, they were particularly troubled by the language used in the executive order.
The order describes some undocumented visitors as “threats to national security” and accuses them of committing “vile and heinous acts” that have cost American taxpayers “billions of dollars.”
“The issue isn’t just the policy — it’s the language being used,” said Mike. “It’s frightening to hear that kind of rhetoric.”
Hostility and Unwelcome Feelings
The Jeffries say they’ve seen attitudes shift in Florida.
“A friend of ours was shouted at with ‘Go home, Canadian!’ while attending a group function,” Mike recalled.
Feeling unwelcome, the Jeffries decided to sell their Florida home last year. Now, with mounting political tension and a new registration requirement, they believe it’s time to leave the snowbird lifestyle behind.
“We’ll miss it,” said Mike. “We’ve made amazing friends, and it’s such a healthy lifestyle. But it’s not worth the stress anymore.”
Impact on Canadian Travelers
With over one million Canadians spending winters in the U.S. each year, this policy shift could lead many to reconsider their plans. While some may comply with the new requirements, others — like the Jeffries — feel the atmosphere has become too unsettling.
As the couple prepares to return to New Brunswick, they say extended stays in Florida no longer seem appealing.
“For now,” Mary Ann said, “we’ll focus on finding peace at home.”
नमस्ते, मेरा नाम अमित वर्मा है। मैं हिंदी में सरकारी योजनाओं और स्कीम्स से जुड़ी ताज़ा खबरें और जानकारी साझा करता हूं। राजस्थान का निवासी होने के नाते, मेरा उद्देश्य आपको सभी सरकारी योजनाओं की सटीक और सरल जानकारी प्रदान करना है।