An Essentials Guide for Snowbirds Migrating to the USA this Winter

Google defines a snowbird as either “a northerner who moves to a warmer southern state in the winter” or “a junco with gray or brown upperparts and a white belly.” These definitions are pretty similar if you think about it. Most Canadian snowbirds' USA winter trips are spent in states like Florida, Arizona, California, and the Carolinas, and many have gray hair, a brown ‘farmer’s tan,’ and white bellies.

Whether you are a snowbird preparing to make your first trek south or last year was your first time seeing snow in a decade, here are ideas to help you get the best value for your money. In this guide, you will learn how snowbirds can save money on currency exchange and what things they need to consider while travelling.

1. Ensure your US bank account is well-stocked before you go

Canadian banks offer online money transfer services; however, their exchange rates are often two percent or higher than what you would pay a pure-play online money transfer provider. Banks also charge transaction fees of up to 5%, and transactions often take longer to complete, such as wire or ACH transfers.

When you transfer over $10,000 internationally with a bank, you risk visiting a bank branch to present your identification documentation in person. When you transfer money from Canada to a US bank account through an online money transfer provider, your cross-border money transfer can be conducted entirely via the Internet and phone without needing to travel to a bank branch. That is a major benefit for snowbirds migrating to the USA who want flexibility and convenience while abroad. However, have your Canadian documentation, such as a driver’s licence, passport, and utility bill, with your home address.

Leading international money transfer providers like MTFX also offer services like forward contracts and market orders for recurring or high-value transfers. Many banks don’t provide these services. If you are making monthly mortgage or lease payments on a home in Scottsdale or St. Petersburg, any service that can lessen the impact of currency fluctuations is a great money-saving opportunity and should be part of your snowbird financial planning for a US stay. Reliable transfers are especially important when budgeting across two currencies and knowing how to save money on cross-border transfers as a Canadian snowbird.

2. Know who is transferring your money

Several service providers cater to the lifestyle, health, and travel needs of the one million or so Canadian snowbirds migrating to the USA every winter. They offer various services effectively to inform, educate, and connect snowbirds. Yet when you are moving substantial amounts of money around, when you are far from home, it’s essential to know who handles your money and where it is.

MTFX has been in the business of helping North Americans send money online internationally for over twenty-nine years. We are regulated by the Government of Canada’s FINTRAC regulatory agency. The money transfer service providers who partner with these organizations are assumed to be subject to the same regulations and standards. Still, transparency matters; you should know who is processing your transfer and how long it will take for funds to reach your American bank account. This is especially true for snowbirds migrating to the USA, who often need dependable services when moving thousands, or even tens of thousands of dollars across borders. Reliable support with currency exchange for Canadian snowbirds ensures that funds arrive on time to cover living costs and maintain a comfortable winter lifestyle in destinations such as Florida and Arizona, which are among the best US states for snowbirds in winter.

Remember the Ford Motor Company’s advertising that you shouldn’t open your hood to strangers? It’s a safe bet that you shouldn’t open your wallet (or bank account) to strangers — a point that applies just as much to banking for Canadian snowbirds in the USA.

3. Winterize and organize your Canadian home before departure

Before you get in your car or board a plane for your winter getaway, ensure you won’t return to Canada with your mailbox overflowing, burst pipes, or strangers living in your home. 

Here are some quick tips for snowbirds migrating to the USA on preparing their principal residence and Canadian affairs before they leave:

• Resist the urge to announce your plans to spend the winter abroad on social media. Many homes have been broken into by opportunistic thieves surfing sites like Instagram and Facebook. Have a friend, neighbour, or family member check on your home while you are away, and keep in mind that how long snowbirds can stay in the US may affect how often someone needs to monitor your property.
• We all know our obligations to CRA related to income, business, sales, and capital gains taxes. Yet many snowbirds don’t fully appreciate their tax responsibilities to the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Consult with a tax accountant or lawyer to better understand your responsibilities to the American government. Also, keep track of the snowbird US registration requirement 2025, since changes in reporting rules may affect how long you can stay in the United States without additional filings.
• Alongside tax planning, make sure you review snowbird travel insurance tips. Confirm that your policy covers medical care in the US, includes any pre-existing conditions if applicable, and lasts for the full length of your winter stay.
• Switch to electronic mail only and notify your bank and relatives that you will be wintering in the US. After a year or so of minimal travel, banks might flag out-of-country activity on your credit or debit cards as suspicious. 
• Ensure your home’s plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems are prepared for frigid weather while you are away. For snowbirds migrating to the USA, paying professionals to close your house and install leak sensors properly will be far less expensive than paying to restore your home if your pipes leak or other damage occurs. 
• Unplug all your electric devices and appliances that would otherwise draw electricity. Computers and TVs can experience power surges and are a fire risk. Dispose of any perishable food.

Snowbird migrations to the south will likely be more challenging than in previous years, so packing extra patience when travelling will be essential. Using practical snowbird border crossing tips from Canada to the USA, along with guidance from experts in legal, accounting, home care, and finance, can help reduce stress and make the journey smoother.

4. Pack smartly

Packing for your snowbirds migrating to the USA requires some planning to ensure you have everything you need without overloading your luggage. Start with the essentials: make a checklist of items you'll need for your stay, including enough clothes for warm and cool weather. While it might be warm during the day, evenings can get chilly, so layering options like sweaters, light jackets, and long sleeves are necessary. Don’t forget your favourite toiletries and any personal items that might be harder to find in the US, like specific medications or Canadian brands. Also, don’t forget to confirm your snowbird health insurance US winter coverage, as medical costs in the United States can be significant, and plan your trip length carefully, since how long snowbirds can stay in the US depends on immigration rules and tax limits.

If you’re staying in a rental or a second home, consider bringing a few comfort items to make the place feel like home — things like your preferred coffee maker, a cozy blanket, or even a few of your favourite books. A travel-sized emergency kit with basic first aid supplies is also smart, particularly for Canadian retirees doing their winter travel, when longer stays often include road trips or exploring new areas.

Lastly, leave some room in your luggage for anything you might pick up while you’re there. Packing light but smart is especially important for snowbirds migrating to the USA, who often stay for several months at a time. The best US states for snowbirds usually offer plenty of local markets and shops to explore, so keeping a little extra space for new finds or gifts makes the trip even more rewarding.

Simplify your currency exchange and global payments with MTFX

Managing exchange rates is one of the biggest concerns for Canadian snowbirds’ USA winter trips, and it’s a critical part of snowbird financial planning US stay, especially when trying to get the best rates and avoid hidden fees. That's where MTFX comes in. With MTFX, you can enjoy competitive exchange rates that are often better than traditional banks offer. Whether transferring funds to your US bank account, paying bills, or managing regular expenses, MTFX provides a seamless and secure way to handle your money across borders.

MTFX has been supporting snowbirds and their international travels for over twenty-nine years. Our practices and exchange rates are unbeatable, transparent, secure, and reliable. Our friendly, knowledgeable customer care team will be happy to help you through hassle-free online money transfers and set you up for an enjoyable winter season wherever your journey takes you.

Sign up for an MTFX account and exchange your Canadian dollars for American dollars. Over the winter, you can make fast, affordable, secure monthly transfers to your US account.

FAQs

1. How long can Canadian snowbirds stay in the US?

It’s a common myth that Canadians must register with USCIS after 30 days. In reality, snowbirds can stay in the USA for up to 182 days in a calendar year without triggering tax residency or immigration issues. Keeping an accurate count of days is essential to staying compliant.

2. What documents do Canadian snowbirds need when crossing the US border?

Canadian snowbirds should carry a valid passport, proof of health insurance, and any required visas or travel permits. Having copies of your itinerary, accommodation details, and emergency contacts is also recommended.

3. What are some banking tips for Canadian snowbirds travelling to the United States?

Opening a US-based bank account before you leave can simplify expenses, reduce foreign transaction fees, and provide quick access to funds. Using a reliable provider for transfers ensures your money arrives safely. With MTFX, many snowbirds set up regular money transfers so they can fund their US accounts consistently and avoid surprises.

4. How can Canadian snowbirds manage their finances while in the US?

Most snowbirds manage their US expenses with a mix of online banking, automatic bill payments, and regular transfers from Canada. MTFX offers competitive exchange rates to send money to the USA from Canada, helping snowbirds keep more of their money when converting CAD to USD and making winter stays easier to manage.

5. What should soon-to-be snowbirds know about crossing the border into the US?

Crossing can be smooth if you’re prepared. Keep your documents handy, answer questions honestly, and know the customs rules on what you can bring across. Practical snowbird border crossing tips from Canada to the USA include avoiding last-minute packing and declaring purchases clearly.

6. How can Canadian snowbirds stay connected to home in the US?

Most choose international phone plans or rely on internet-based tools like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Zoom. Regular check-ins with friends and family also make the winter stay feel more connected.

7. What are the best tips for snowbirds migrating to the USA for the first time?

For first-time travellers, planning is crucial. Build a travel checklist, secure insurance, and familiarise yourself with local customs. Also research the best US states for snowbirds in winter to choose a location that fits their lifestyle. Newcomers often find peace of mind in using snowbird money transfers through MTFX to cover expenses seamlessly.

8. Are there any US immigration rules that Canadian snowbirds should know?

Yes. The 182-day stay limit is the most important rule to remember. You’ll also need to maintain a primary residence in Canada and ensure you have valid snowbird health insurance for US winter travel throughout your stay.

9. What should Canadian snowbirds pack for their stay in the US?

Pack for both warm and cool weather, bring essential medications, and include items that may be harder to find in the US. Leaving extra space in your luggage is smart for new purchases.

10. What is the snowbird US registration requirement for 2025?

The snowbird US registration requirement 2025 refers to updated reporting obligations for Canadians staying in the United States. Keeping up to date with these rules helps avoid complications with both US and Canadian authorities.

11. How can Canadian snowbirds prepare for their border crossing back to Canada?

Have all documents ready, declare any purchases, and be clear about the length of your stay. This will make re-entry smoother and help avoid delays.

12. What are the best snowbird travel insurance tips for Canadians spending the winter in the US?

When comparing plans, check that coverage includes emergency medical care, prescriptions, and the full duration of your trip. Reviewing exclusions and pre-existing condition clauses is also part of smart planning. Many Canadians pair their coverage with currency rate alerts from MTFX to make sure funds are transferred when the exchange rate is most favourable.

13. Do Canadian snowbirds register with USCIS after 30 days?

No. Canadian snowbirds do not register with USCIS after 30 days, but they should keep careful track of their time in the US to remain within immigration limits.

Sign up for an MTFX account and exchange your Canadian dollars for American ones. Over the winter, you can make fast, affordable, secure monthly transfers to your US account.