Schedule of Events | 2026 Winter Carnival (February 19-22, 2026)
Click on the link for the Schedule of Events: 2026 FRCN WINTER CARNIVAL
chevron_left
-
play_arrow
Cree Nation Radio 103.5 FM Cree Nation Radio 103.5 FM
Ottawa urges First Nations people to bring a passport when crossing U.S. border
The Government of Canada has revised its travel guidance for the United States, advising First Nations individuals to bring a passport along with their status card when crossing the border.
Previously, Canada’s travel advice website stated that First Nations people could “freely” enter the United States for work, education, retirement, investment, or immigration purposes.
However, as of Thursday (Feb. 19), the website now reflects updated guidance with new requirements.
Canada’s advisory now states that First Nations individuals “may” be permitted to cross the Canada–U.S. border by land or water using a Secure Certificate of Indian Status, commonly referred to as a secure status card.
However, it notes that U.S. border officials have full discretion over whether to accept status cards. It also clarifies that neither regular status cards nor secure status cards are valid travel documents for air travel.
Travellers using a status card to cross the border are strongly encouraged to also carry a valid passport and ensure their secure status card is machine-readable, the website says.
The government adds that since February 2019, all newly-issued and renewed secure status cards include machine-readable features.
Secure status cards were first introduced in 2009, gradually replacing older laminated paper and plastic versions.
“While you may have previously crossed the Canada-U.S. border with only a secure status card, [Indigenous Services Canada] now strongly recommends also carrying a valid passport when travelling outside of Canada,” the website says.
It also warns that individuals registered under the Indian Act who plan to live or work in the United States could be asked to provide documents showing they meet U.S. legal requirements regarding Indigenous ancestry.
Meanwhile, the Assembly of First Nations has advised First Nations people to exercise caution when travelling to the United States, citing immigration enforcement raids and reports of Indigenous individuals being detained.
As reported by CBC News, AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak said at least one First Nations person recently had a negative interaction with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), but has since returned to Canada.
Fisher River Cree Nation is a community in which our history, language, traditions, and culture are paramount to who we are as a people. We will protect and maintain the spirit and intent of the treaties and our inherent rights. Fisher River will be a self-sustaining progressive community with a strong and accountable government. We will provide an environment where all people are healthy, safe, and respected.
CONTACT US
- 204.645.2171
- Box 367, Fisher River, MB R0C1S0
- Media Inquiries - hello@neaultmarketing.ca