CSA applauds the inclusion of the Canadian Retiree Visa in comprehensive immigration reform bill

TORONTO, April 19, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadian Snowbird Association applauds the inclusion of the JOLT (Jobs Originated through Launching Travel) Act in the comprehensive immigration reform legislation announced yesterday in the United States Senate. The JOLT Act is a bipartisan bill which seeks to expand international travel to the United States in order to increase economic growth. One of the provisions found in the JOLT Act, known as the 'Canadian Retiree Visa,' would allow Canadian retirees, who meet certain requirements, to spend up to eight months in the U.S., two months longer than current policy allows.

"The Canadian Retiree Visa would allow Canadian snowbirds to make the most of their retirement," said Bob Slack, President of the Canadian Snowbird Association. "Our members have been following this development with keen interest."

The CSA has been working closely with New York Senator Charles Schumer's office for the past 18 months regarding the two month extension for Canadian retirees.

Canada is the largest international tourism market for the United States. In 2011, Canadians made an estimated 21 million trips to the U.S. and spent approximately $24 billion.

The Canadian Snowbird Association is a 70,000 member, non-profit, non-partisan organization representing Canadian travellers from across the country. The CSA works in partnership with government and business to educate and advocate on behalf of all travelling Canadians.

SOURCE: Canadian Snowbird Association

Contact:
Michael MacKenzie
Executive Director
Canadian Snowbird Association
[phone]
[email protected]