Big change coming for Canadians visiting the United States

A notable change is coming for Canadians visiting the United States as a result of an order from U.S. President Donald Trump.

Trump signed an executive order last week ordering an increase to fees for foreign tourists visiting the country’s national parks.

“Charging higher entrance fees to foreign tourists is a common policy at national parks throughout the world that supports both conservation and affordable access for residents,” a fact sheet from the White House said.

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“Increasing entry fees at national parks for foreign visitors will fuel investment in our national parks, reduce the maintenance backlog, construct critical infrastructure improvements, and support conservation projects that improve our majestic national parks.”

The White House said that Americans ultimately pay more than foreigners to visit American parks because they fund them through tax dollars and still have to pay the same rate as foreign tourists to enter.

“President Trump is ending this unfair situation and putting Americans first,” the White House said.

The executive order also directs the National Park Service to ensure Americans are prioritized in any reservation systems.

It’s not clear exactly how much fees could increase by, or when the move could take effect.