Effective June 21, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that foreign nationals can no longer apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) at Canadian ports of entry (POE).
This change is immediate.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller stated that this measure aims to reduce “flagpoling” and enable border officers to focus more on “enforcement activities.” Additionally, it is expected to decrease delays for travellers and expedite the movement of commercial goods between Canada and the United States.
Additionally, the department states that this change will enhance “fairness among applicants” and that they will continue to explore other methods to reduce the practice of flagpoling in the future.
Minister Miller expressed that while they still value and acknowledge the contributions of international graduates to Canada’s workforce, they believe that ‘flagpoling’ is not required. “Reviewing applications from individuals who engage in ‘flagpoling’ takes away attention from officers who are responsible for protecting the safety, security, and well-being of Canadians and Americans. Implementing this measure will help stop the practice of flagpoling without compromising the integrity of our immigration system.
Some individuals utilize the flagpoling method as a way to bypass the potentially lengthy processing time for their Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). In response to these concerns, IRCC states that they are:
- Expediting the processing of work permit applications within Canada
- Making online application forms and processes easier for foreigners so they can still work while waiting for a decision on their new application.
- Allowing employees to begin work for a different employer immediately instead of waiting for their new work permit application to be approved before switching jobs.
During the period from March 1, 2023, to February 29, 2024, one out of every five foreign nationals attempting to flagpole were applicants for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) according to IRCC.
What’s flagpoling?
Flagpoling is a legitimate practice where individuals who are temporary residents, such as those with work or study permits, a visitor visa, or an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), can access immigration services by leaving and re-entering Canada through a specific port of entry (POE) within a 24-hour period. The process allows you to bypass the lengthy waiting periods and processing times that can typically occur when applying online or by paper to IRCC. Another benefit is having the opportunity to speak directly with an immigration officer, which can be helpful when dealing with any issues related to an immigration application.
The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) recommends that newcomers exercise caution when using flagpoling services, as there may be long wait times at Points of Entry (POEs) and potential immigration consequences if temporary residents do not properly manage their departure and re-entry into Canada.
Newcomers who participate in flagpoling are advised to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements for their immigration pathway and have valid legal status in Canada when exiting and re-entering the country. Newcomers who are not legally allowed to stay in the country and try to use flagpoling services may face the possibility of being deported.
