Rethiga
Effective May 30, 2024, Canadian and U.S authorities have restricted the number of Ports of Entry (POEs) providing flagpoling services as a measure to deal with increased traffic volumes and processing demands at the Canada-US border. In-person applications at land border crossings allow applicants to bypass the typical 3-month wait times.
What is Flagpoling?
Flagpoling is a legal process that allows temporary residents in Canada—such as those on work permits, study permits, visitor visas, or electronic Travel Authorizations (eTAs)—to obtain immigration services in person by briefly exiting and re-entering Canada. This usually happens at a Canada-U. S border crossing point and must be carried out within 24 hours.
Why the Recent Crackdown on Flagpoling?
The recent changes in flagpoling practices have been driven by several factors. The Canadian and U.S. authorities have identified increased border traffic as one of the main drivers. This has increased cases of crossing borders thereby making it necessary for an improved system of managing the excessive numbers of individuals who move from one place to another.
In a statement to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) explained that the adjustments in flagpoling were meant to improve efficiency during peak travel hours. This allows border officers to prioritize other critical duties, including trade facilitation, processing high-risk travelers, and handling asylum seekers.
Book a Free Consultation for Canadian Immigration
Designated Flagpoling Locations and Hours
While immigration services remain accessible at designated ports of entry, only 12 specific border crossings now offer flagpoling services, each with specified hours of operation.
The CBSA advises newcomers to use online services with IRCC where possible to avoid potential long wait times at these border crossings. While flagpoling remains a legitimate process, planning ahead and being aware of the specific hours and locations will help ensure a smoother experience.
If you’re a temporary resident in Canada planning to use flagpoling, it’s crucial to stay informed about these changes and prepare accordingly.
Book a Free Consultation for Canadian Immigration
IRCC Ends Post-Graduation Work Permit Applications at Canadian Ports of Entry
As of June 21, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a significant change: foreign nationals can no longer apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) at their Canadian port of entry (POE). This change is effective immediately.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller stated that this measure aims to reduce “flagpoling” and provide border officers with more time to complete “enforcement activities.” Additionally, it is expected to decrease delays for travelers and expedite the movement of commercial goods between Canada and the United States.
Quick Facts
Study Permit Expiry: Typically, a study permit expires 90 days after the expected completion of an international student’s study program.
Application Process: Eligible graduating students who apply online for a PGWP before their study permit expires can work full-time while awaiting approval. They receive an automated letter to show to employers, and once the work permit is approved, it is mailed directly to them.
Speeding Up Processing Times: Accelerating the processing times for in-Canada work permit applications.
Simplifying Applications: Streamlining online application forms and processes so foreign nationals can continue working while waiting for a decision on their new application.
Immediate Work Authorization: Allowing workers to start working for a new employer immediately, rather than waiting for their new work permit application to be processed before changing jobs.
These changes reflect the IRCC’s commitment to improving fairness and efficiency for applicants and border services.