Ktunaxa Nation issues U.S. travel advisory

Ktunaxa Nation Council is issuing this advisory to all Ktunaxanin̓tik who are considering travelling to, or through, the United States.

Ktunaxa Nation Council (KNC) recognizes the importance of cross-border travel for family, cultural, economic and personal reasons, and has serious concerns about the safety of our citizens in relation to border crossings and enforcement practices.

Recent reports from Indigenous Nations across Canada indicate Indigenous travelers are experiencing increased scrutiny at United States border crossings. There have been instances of detainment and delays, as well as Indigenous-specific documentation not being consistently recognized by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers.

Although Indigenous Peoples hold inherent rights to cross the Canada-United States border— including those recognized under the Jay Treaty—enforcement and interpretation of these rights may vary by border officer or agency.

As a result, entry into the United States remains at the discretion of U.S. Authorities.

If you are detained or delayed by U.S. authorities,
contact your Chief or a Council Member immediately.

They will coordinate support with the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, which has legal assistance available to Ktunaxanin̓tik travelling into or entering the United States.

Precautions

KNC strongly advises citizens to take the following precautions when travelling to the U.S.:

1. Travel only if necessary.
2. Exercise heightened caution when travelling to and within the United States.
3. Share your travel plans with family or friends and check in regularly.
4. Remain calm and respectful when interacting with U.S. authorities and request clarification if instructions are unclear.
5. Keep your phone charged and accessible.
6. Carry proper identification at all times, which includes:

• Canadian Secure Indian Status Card

• Passport

• Long-form birth certificate (for children under 16)

• Blood Quantum letter

• Monitor Government of Canada travel advisories and current developments in the U.S.

Additional information on your Rights

If you were born in the United States

You are a United States citizen. ICE has no jurisdiction over citizens on immigration matters.

However, ICE has targeted Tribal citizens, so it’s important to know your rights and have proper documentation.

Keep copies of the following documents with you at all times.

Your proof of citizenship:

• Tribal ID (valid legal identification)

• State-issued ID or driver’s license

• U.S. passport

If you were born in Canada (Jay Treaty Entrants)

You have lawful status under Section 289 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. §1359). You are legally authorized to live and work in the United States.

Keep copies of the following documents with you at all times.

Your proof of lawful status: 

• Tribal letter confirming at least 50% American Indian blood quantum

• Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) card with red stripe

• Long-form birth certificate

• Form I-181 or I-551 (green card) if you have on

• Government-issued photo ID