I received an email from Amtrak regarding entry requirements for my upcoming US-bound Maple Leaf trip. The email stated that non-US-resident citizens needed to submit an I-94 and ESTA form prior to arrival at the border. There was nothing pertaining specifically to Canadian citizens in the email, which was confusing considering Canadians usually have easier entry requirements when entering the US. This is the information I found on the CBP website regarding these forms:

• Regarding I-94: A Form I-94 is needed by all visitors except: U.S. Citizens, returning resident aliens, aliens with immigrant visas, and most Canadian citizens visiting or in transit.
• Regarding ESTA: Citizens of Canada who are traveling with a Canadian passport do not need an ESTA.

I think it's safe to assume the ESTA is a non issue as Canadians are exempted from the VWP, however, the "most Canadians" wording has me confused about the I-94, as I've never heard of paying a fee to enter the US as a Canadian. I spoke to Amtrak and the representative was also confused and told me this must be a new policy. Does anyone have experience with this?


Screenshot of Amtrak email information.