Commonwealth_ Immigration lawyers are warning Canadians that the process for entering the United States is no longer business as usual, especially for those attempting to cross the border for work. The case of a Vancouver woman, Jasmine Mooney, who was detained in the U.S. for about 12 days after her visa was denied, has highlighted the increasingly difficult situation for Canadian citizens attempting to enter the U.S.
Mooney’s ordeal began when she attempted to cross the U.S.-Mexico border near San Diego, California, on March 3, 2025. She was detained by U.S. immigration authorities after applying for a TN visa, a work visa available under a trade agreement between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. TN visas are unique in that they can be processed at the border, without the need to visit a U.S. embassy or consulate, a provision that has made them particularly convenient for Canadian professionals. However, Mooney faced an extended period of harsh detention instead of a simple denial of entry.
Her detention at a privately run facility in Arizona has raised significant concerns, as she was held in a crowded cell with 30 other individuals and had limited access to amenities. Mooney’s family described the conditions as inhumane, and her detention serves as a stark reminder that the U.S. immigration process has become more stringent and unpredictable, particularly for Canadians who have previously experienced smooth crossings.
This case is not unique. Over the past 10 days, a growing number of individuals with varying degrees of immigration status, some even holding permanent-resident cards, have been detained or deported in ways that were previously uncommon. U.S. immigration authorities, specifically U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), stated that Mooney’s detention was carried out in accordance with an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in January 2025. This order reflects the administration’s ongoing efforts to tighten immigration controls and deter immigration to the U.S., a strategy that has resulted in an increased number of denials and detentions at the border.
Immigration experts say that the shift in U.S. border policy signals a broader trend of harsher treatment for foreign nationals, including Canadians. Lawyers note that Canadian citizens, who once enjoyed a relatively smooth entry process, now face heightened scrutiny. This shift is part of a larger political agenda that focuses on cracking down on immigration violations and controlling who enters the country.
Lawyers also emphasize the importance of Canadian citizens being fully transparent and cautious when dealing with U.S. immigration officers. The days of assuming that some border crossings are easier than others are gone. Mooney, for instance, tried to enter the U.S. from British Columbia first but was unsuccessful. She then attempted to cross from Mexico, where she had been previously granted entry. Her case demonstrates how even identical circumstances can result in different outcomes depending on the officer at the border.
For those seeking to enter the U.S. on work visas or other immigration statuses, immigration experts now advise extra caution. Lawyers are warning that Canadian citizens should avoid taking their immigration status for granted, as they may face more stringent checks and denials. The recent trend of detaining individuals at the border underscores the growing challenges facing anyone seeking entry into the U.S., including Canadians with long-standing or well-established work visas. In light of these developments, lawyers are urging Canadians to follow official procedures and apply for visas at consulates or embassies rather than attempting to process them at the border. The unpredictability of the U.S. immigration system has escalated the risks for individuals who depend on immediate approvals at border crossings.
As the situation continues to evolve, it appears that Canadians who previously navigated U.S. immigration without issue now face the same challenges as citizens of other countries. The political climate in the U.S., particularly since January 2025, has brought about significant changes to immigration enforcement, and the impact on Canadian travelers has become increasingly apparent. The rise in detentions and denials is a clear indication that U.S. immigration authorities are following through with a mandate to implement stricter controls on foreign nationals, with an emphasis on deterring immigration to the country.
