Punjabi truck drivers face Visa cancellations at US-Canada border; Here's Why
Babushahi Bureau
Canada, May 25, 2026 — Punjabi truck drivers travelling from Canada to the United States are reportedly facing strict scrutiny at border checkpoints, with authorities allegedly cancelling visas and denying entry after examining mobile phones for objectionable or suspicious content.
According to reports, US and Canadian border security agencies have intensified inspections following concerns related to rising incidents of crime, harassment, and other offences. During checks, officials are reportedly examining drivers’ mobile phones for explicit material, suspicious WhatsApp groups, illegal content involving minors, or weapons-related material.
Authorities have warned that if such content is discovered, drivers could face immediate cancellation of visas, suspension of permits, or long-term entry bans.
Reports further claim that drivers refusing to provide phone passwords or denying access to their devices may also be denied entry into the United States.
As per border security data cited in the reports, nearly 55,000 drivers’ phones were allegedly checked during 2025 as part of enhanced screening measures at the US-Canada border.
A truck driver identified as Taranjit Singh Uppal claimed that several of his acquaintances working for a transport company in Nova Scotia had their visas revoked and were banned from entering the United States following such inspections.
The development has triggered concern among members of the Punjabi trucking community in Canada, many of whom regularly travel across the border for commercial transportation work.
However, officials have not issued any specific advisory targeting Punjabi drivers, and border checks are understood to be part of broader security and immigration enforcement measures.