Foreign nationals will no longer allowed to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) at their Canadian port of entry (POE). As of June 21, according to a statement released by IRCC. According to Immigration Minister marc Miller, this will decrease “Flagpoling” and provide border guards to finish “execution duties”.
Additionally, it is anticipated to expedite the flow of commercial items between Canada and USA to reduce passenger queues.
The new change takes effect right now.
Furthermore, the government claims that the modification would improve “fairness among applicants”. And that it keep looking for additional strategies to cut down on flagpoling going forward.
Minister Miller states, “‘Flagpoling’ is unnecessary. Even as continue to support and recognize the contributions of international graduates to Canada’s labour market.”
To ensure the growth, security and stability of both Americans and Canadians. Authorities on both sides of the border must devote the time and resources required to handle “flagpolers'” requests. This action will preserve the integrity of our immigration system while aiding in the prevention of this activity.
Some candidate’s flagpoles to circumvent the occasionally protracted PGWP screening period. As a response to these worries, the IRCC states that:
- Reducing the time, it takes to process applications for work permits inside Canada.
- Online applications and forms should simpler so that foreign nationals can keep working while their new applications completed.
- Allowing employees to begin working for a new company immediately rather than waiting for the processing of their new work permit application before making a change in employment.
PGWP applicants made for one-fifth of foreign nationals who attempted to flagpole from February 29, 2024, until March 1, 2023, according to the IRCC.
What is meaning of Flagpoling?
By leaving Canada at a specified port of entry (POE) and returning within 24 hours, eligible temporary residents (those with a visitor visa, work/study permit, or electronic travel authorization (eTA)) can obtain immigration services through a legal procedure known as flagpoling.
By using this method, one can avoid the protracted wait times and processing delays that frequently accompany IRCC applications submitted on paper or online. There are further advantages to speaking with an immigration official in person, particularly if you need to resolve issues pertaining to an application.
The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) cautions newcomers to use flagpoling services with caution because wait periods at POEs can be lengthy in and of themselves. If temporary residents mishandle their exit and re-entry into Canada, there may be immigration repercussions.
Maintaining valid legal status or having maintained status in Canada when departing and reentering is greatly encouraged for newcomers participating in flagpoling, among other eligibility conditions (such as meeting requirements for the immigration pathway applied for and basic admission requirements to Canada). If out-of-status immigrants try to use flagpoling services, they run the danger of being deported.
What is the reason behind the sudden suppression of flagpoling?
According to statements made by officials from both Canada and the United States. The increased traffic at the border caused more processing stress for the border guards. Which partly to blame for the recent adjustments to flagpoling.
The CBSA changed the locations and operating hours of its flagpoling services to improve efficiency during peak travel periods. And to “allow officers to focus on other priorities, including trade facilitation, high-risk travelers, and asylum seekers. According to a statement provided to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC).
Current Changes to all Services:
The governments of the United States and Canada have recently proposed modifications to flagpoling services. Generally in response to increasing wait times and traffic at important POEs.
Flagpoling services at twelve Canadian POEs will operate with fewer hours because of these modifications.
Visit this page to view the complete schedule of operating hours for every POE in Canada, as provided by the IRCC.
For more information, visit DY immigration office and talk to our expertsfor study in Canada.