Why More Americans Are Visiting Canada Than Canadians Visiting the U.S. — And What It Means for Cross-Border Travel

For the first time in over two decades — excluding pandemic disruptions — more Americans are visiting Canada than Canadians are heading south to the United States. This reversal in cross-border travel patterns has caught the attention of tourism experts, immigration professionals, and policymakers alike. What’s driving this change, and will it last?

Why More Americans Are Choosing to Come to Canada

Several factors are making Canada an increasingly attractive destination for U.S. travellers:

• Favourable Exchange Rate: The Canadian dollar remains weak against the U.S. dollar, making travel north more affordable for Americans.
• Political Climate: Despite trade tensions, Canadians continue to welcome American tourists at the border with relatively limited restrictions.
• Natural Beauty & Events: Canada’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, large concerts, and major international events are drawing large crowds.
• Perceived Safety & Hospitality: Many Americans report feeling safe and welcomed in Canada, with tourism boards actively promoting inclusivity and friendliness.

Why Canadians Are Avoiding the U.S.

In stark contrast, Canadian travel to the U.S. has plummeted. According to Statistics Canada, automobile crossings are down nearly 37% and air travel is down 26% year-over-year. The reasons for this decline are complex and are rooted in recent political developments, such as:

• Tariffs & Trade Tensions: President Trump’s 35% tariffs on Canadian goods and his controversial comments about annexing Canada have sparked widespread backlash within the country.
• Border Scrutiny & Safety Concerns: New U.S. entry rules, including enhanced scrutiny of electronic devices and mandatory registration for stays over 30 days, have made Canadians wary.
• National Pride & Boycotts: Many Canadians are choosing to travel domestically or to other international destinations as a form of protest against recent political and economic developments. Travel agencies report a surge in bookings to Europe, Mexico, and Asia.
• Shift in Opinion: Surveys show that 63% of Canadians feel less inclined to visit the U.S. due to its government policies, and over half no longer feel welcome there.

Will This Trend Persist?

Experts suggest that this reversal may not be a short-term anomaly:

• Booking Data: Weak U.S. leisure travel bookings from Canada indicate the trend may continue throughout the summer of 2025 and beyond.
• Policy Impact: Unless there’s a significant shift in U.S. border policies or political rhetoric, Canadian travel to the U.S. may remain subdued.
• Tourism Adaptation: Canadian destinations are already adjusting their marketing strategies to appeal more to domestic and American visitors.

Thinking about Travelling to Canada from the U.S.? Speak to Our Immigration Lawyers Today

The Canada-U.S. travel dynamic is undergoing a profound transformation. While Americans are embracing Canada’s charm and affordability, Canadians are reevaluating their southern travel habits amid political and cultural tensions. Whether this trend becomes the new normal depends on diplomacy, policy shifts, and the evolving sentiment on both sides of the border.

If you have questions about travelling to Canada from the U.S. or vice versa, our Vancouver immigration lawyers can provide answers. We assist with visitor visas, inadmissibility concerns, and more. To contact a member of our team, schedule a consultation today.