Canadian detention and arrest cases have risen significantly in the past year, primarily driven by incidents in the United States.
According to a recent Global Affairs Canada report, Canadians detained and arrested in the U.S. accounted for 63% of the stat’s overall growth during the 2025 to 2026 fiscal year.
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This is in spite of Canada to U.S. travel declining by 25% in 2025.
Canadians Detained in the U.S.
From 2025 to 2026, Global Affairs Canada opened 1,981 arrest and detention cases. This is an increase of around 20% compared to the previous year, and over 43% compared to 2023 and 2024.
Since the U.S. accounted for the majority of the growth, it was the destination with the highest number of arrest and detention cases at 577. Second place goes to Mexico, which had 308 cases at an increase of 16% from the previous year.
1,047 of the total detention cases lasted less than a week, with 934 lasting one week or longer.
Citizens’ Well-Being and Whereabouts
The report also notes an increase of nearly 18% of consular assistance for well-being and whereabouts cases involving Canadians who had gone missing or lost contact with loved ones. A large portion of this increase was driven by cases in the U.S. and Thailand.
“When a Canadian stops communicating or misses expected check-ins, it can be deeply concerning for family and friends,” reads the report.
Staying Informed
While travelling should be an exciting event, things can change quickly. Global Affairs Canada encourages Canadians to stay informed by using Canada’s trusted travel resources, including Travel Advice and Advisories, Registration of Canadians Abroad, and Travel Updates.
