New Snowbird Visa Act Could Extend Canadians' Stay in Century Village East

Canadian residents of Century Village East may soon have the chance to enjoy more time in their Florida homes thanks to a new proposal in the U.S. Congress. The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act, introduced in April 2025 by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, would extend the amount of time eligible Canadian citizens can spend in the United States each year from six months to eight.

This proposed legislation would allow Canadians aged 50 and over, who maintain a residence in Canada and own or lease a U.S. property, to stay in the U.S. for up to 240 days per year without changing their tax status or requiring a special visa.

For Century Village East, where a significant portion of the seasonal population is made up of Canadian residents, the bill could bring renewed stability. Longer stays would mean greater participation in community events, club activities, and a fuller social calendar well into the spring. With fewer limitations on their stay, snowbirds could better plan their time in Florida without the stress of counting days or booking early flights north.

The proposed visa comes at a time when the community has been experiencing a noticeable shift. Over the past six months, more Canadian snowbirds have begun selling their Florida condos and returning home permanently. Real estate agents have reported an uptick in listings from Canadian owners, a trend fueled by several factors.

Among them are concerns over the current U.S.-Canada relationship under the Trump administration. New policies—such as a rule requiring Canadians to register with immigration authorities if staying more than 30 days—have introduced new complications for those used to freely coming and going. Trade tensions, fluctuating exchange rates, and rising property insurance costs have added financial pressure, prompting many to reconsider the value of maintaining a Florida residence.

While the bill still faces hurdles in Congress, its bipartisan backing gives it more momentum than past attempts. For CVE, it could mean the difference between a shrinking seasonal population and a thriving, year-round sense of connection.