Canada: Arrests and Detentions of Canadians in the U.S. Rise by 60%

The number of Canadian citizens arrested or detained in the United States rose by 60 per cent between April 2025 and March 2026, according to a new report from Global Affairs Canada.

The department’s annual consular report recorded the increase despite a 25 per cent decline in visits by Canadians to the U.S. It did not identify a specific cause, although the rise comes amid expanded immigration enforcement under U.S. President Donald Trump and reports of Canadians facing more difficult questioning at border crossings.

The report also found that arrests of Canadians worldwide increased by approximately one-fifth, including a threefold rise in Thailand. Global Affairs Canada noted that international conflicts, natural disasters and other emergencies are making consular cases increasingly complex and costly to manage.

Meanwhile, more Canadians are registering their overseas travel with the government, allowing officials to share safety information and coordinate assistance or evacuations when necessary.

The figures underline the importance of staying informed about travel conditions and understanding the potential risks before travelling abroad.

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