Canada Issues New Travel Advisory for United States After ‘American Pie’ Actor Jasmine Mooney Detained

Tighter Entry Scrutiny Prompts Canadian Government to Warn Travelers

In a significant update to its travel guidance, Canada has issued a revised advisory for citizens planning to visit the United States, citing concerns over increased scrutiny at U.S. borders. The update, issued on April 4, 2025, follows the high-profile detention of Canadian actor Jasmine Mooney, best known for her role in American Pie, by U.S. border agents in San Diego, California.

What Prompted the Advisory Update?

Jasmine Mooney’s Detention by Border Agents

The advisory comes approximately one month after Mooney was held in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody for 12 days, triggering public outcry and renewed attention on cross-border policies. While U.S. officials did not release detailed reasons for her detention, the case has fueled concerns over how Canadian travelers are treated at U.S. points of entry.

What Does the New Travel Advisory Say?

Emphasis on Compliance and Cooperation

The Canadian government is urging travelers to be vigilant and fully cooperative during their interactions with U.S. border authorities. The advisory now explicitly warns:

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

This serves as a stark reminder that even routine travel could involve extended questioning or device checks, especially amid heightened immigration enforcement.

Warning on Electronic Device Searches

The advisory further cautions that U.S. border officials have the right to inspect electronic devices, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets. Travelers are advised to anticipate possible searches and maintain transparency during any inspections.

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Additional Rules for Emergency Documents

Another new section of the advisory stresses that travelers using temporary passports or emergency travel documents could face additional restrictions or delays. Canadians are encouraged to consult the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy before their departure if they’re traveling under such conditions.

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Background on the Policy Shift

This update marks the second change to Canada’s travel advisory for the U.S. since the diplomatic breakdown between former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Donald Trump. The earlier advisory, released shortly after Trump took office, introduced a rule requiring Canadian citizens staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days to register with U.S. authorities, in compliance with an executive order referencing the Immigration and Nationality Act.

The registration rule takes effect April 11, reinforcing Canada’s effort to ensure its citizens are aware of evolving U.S. immigration protocols.

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ICE Enforcement and the Legal Framework

U.S. Entry Rules Now Stricter Than Ever

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) continues to strictly enforce the Immigration and Nationality Act, which mandates that non-citizens 14 years and older who remain in the U.S. for more than 30 days must be registered and fingerprinted, unless already done during the visa process.

Canada’s advisory underscores that “entry into the U.S. is not guaranteed,” and that travelers should be prepared for intense screening—even if they hold valid travel documents.

Jasmine Mooney’s Case: A High-Profile Reminder

Detention Sparks Diplomatic and Media Attention

Although the Canadian government did not explicitly link the new advisory to Jasmine Mooney’s case, the timing and context suggest her detention played a role in prompting Ottawa to issue the warning. Mooney was released after 12 days, but the incident has spotlighted the potential risks faced by Canadians, even those in the public eye.

Final Thoughts: Canadian Travelers Urged to Prepare

As cross-border tensions linger and U.S. entry policies become increasingly rigorous, Canada’s updated travel advisory serves as both a caution and a call for preparedness. From device inspections to possible detentions, Canadians planning a trip to the U.S. are being told to expect a new level of scrutiny and to approach all interactions with border officials with full transparency and compliance.

With registration requirements for longer stays coming into effect April 11, Canadians must stay informed, vigilant, and prepared—whether traveling for business, leisure, or family visits.