Governments use national security as the premise for increased surveillance. Due to a law passed in April, Canadians visiting the US must submit biometric data in order to enter the US if they wish to stay longer than 29 days. Beginning next month, everyone will be forced to submit their data to the government. We heard from a Canadian WEC guest who was taken aback when asked to submit these forms, as it was not required last year.
The Canadian government may issue an I-94 electronic record to air passengers ahead of arrival if you plan on an extended stay. Visit the US Customs and Border website to determine if you have an I-94 form on file. This form should be valid for the next six months. The rules are a bit stricter for those driving across the border, but it is possible to pre-apply online to avoid waiting at the border. For either method, the US government will require fingerprints and a photograph that will be kept on file.
Those kicking off snowbird season at the start of the conference may have the ability to register with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) by filling out an online form called G-325R. You must provide your US address but this is the only method to avoid submitting biometric data. If you stay in the US for more than 29 days, you will need to resubmit this form to avoid submitting your fingerprints and image.
Beginning December 26, Canadians must submit biometric data when entering and exiting the US. “This technology compares your live facial features with the photo in your travel documents to verify your identity, creating a more seamless, secure, and safer travel experience,” Customs and Border Patrol notes on its website. “CBP is leading the way in innovative identity verification through its use of facial biometric comparison technology. This technology compares your live facial features with the photo in your travel documents to verify your identity, creating a more seamless, secure, and safer travel experience.”
Biometric kiosks are appearing at airports across the globe. Not only will your government have your biometric profile, but EVERY nation you visit will soon have your unique profile on file. You can no longer avoid this process by entering the US by land or sea as border agents will simply not let anyone in unless they surrender their data.
