Conundrum . how long in the US

I recently took the train across the border to the US. The US Immigration did not stamp my Canadian passport nor did i have to fill out an I-94. All that was filled out was a Customs declaration. Whats up with that?

So how do they know how long i will (could theoretically) stay in the US?

I belive as a cdn one can stay 6 months in a year. Not sure when that year starts though? Did they scan ur passport? I know sometimes when I flew into the USA, they didnt stamp my passort, but scanned it, so I'm sure they knew when I came in.

I know what the rule, is i am talking theoretically.
They cannot scan passports on a train.

They have your customs declaration card, so they have record of your arrival. Rarely do Canadian passports get stamped at the border, and only if you are receiving a visa do you need to fill out an I-94.

Don't worry, they know you're here.

*Theoretically* are you trying to stay illegally?

I have little desire to reside in the US, just take a sabbatical at best. And if that case were to arise I simply extend/get a visitors visa. My background and work is in border security, particularly in the EU. I am trying to understand a few things and one is that I cannot see someone sitting at a computer inputting the 1000's per day customs declarations some badly written. Customs declatations do not ask for any ID numbers either. My theory is if a Canadian crosses via train, or an American crosses into Canada, they are not registered anywhere and it is simply an honour system. This is particularly relevant for my research in also understanding US-mexican relations and the current talks of immigration reform. . . but thats a whole other discussion board. :)

theories always look good on paper.

One could always consult with an immigration attorney

Planning a vacation? Finding your ideal destination is o­nly part of the job; there's also the matter of where to stay. Your accommodation preference will define your vacation as much as your intended place to get a little R&R, so be careful about the choices you make.

Does that six month rule come from the Canada side or the US side? I mean, does the US only allow Canadians six months in the US, or does Canada take away certain benefits if you've been out of the country for too long? I've heard of snowbirds always having to return within six months, but I thought that was for their health insurance.