Canada Ends Flagpoling For Study, Work Permits At Border

Study in Canada: The new changes will benefit both Canada and the US as they will help the countries manage border operations more effectively and maintain the integrity of the shared border.

The government of Canada has announced that going forward, study and work permits will not be provided to flagpolers at the border. The new rule is effective from December 23, 2024.

Flagpoling means when foreign nationals with temporary resident status of Canada, visit St. Pierre and Miquelon or the US and re-enter Canada to get the immigration services at the border. According to the Canadian government, it takes significant resources at the port of entry. It also results in long wait times for travellers crossing the border and diverts American and Canadian officers away from other important enforcement activities. Going forward, the foreign nationals who intend to flagpole for study or work permit need to submit an application to IRCC.

"Immigration services at the border are meant for individuals arriving in Canada, not for those already in Canada. Applications and renewals for work or study permits need to be submitted through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Those who attempt to flagpole for a work and study permit will be told to submit their application to IRCC unless they meet limited exemptions," says the government's statement.

David J. McGuinty, Minister of Public Safety commented, “This change will enable us to further streamline activities at our ports of entry and allow Canadian and American border officers to focus on what they have been expertly trained to do – border enforcement.”

Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship said, “A strong Canada-U.S. relationship keeps people and goods moving safely while protecting both sides of the border. Flagpoling is unnecessary and diverts resources from critical enforcement activities. This change will ease border congestion, improve fairness for applicants, and enhance the efficiency and security of our borders.”

Exemptions Of Flagpoling Ban

The work and study permits will be granted in very limited circumstances including:

• If the foreign nationals are Lawful Permanent Residents and Citizens of the USA.
• Those who have pre-existing appointments with the CBSA for study and work permit processing.
• Technicians and professionals under free trade agreements with Chile, the United States/Mexico, Peru, Panama, South Korea, and Columbia. Also, spouses and common-law partners of such technicians and professionals.
• Foreign truck drivers with existing work permits can get the permit if they are going from Canada for employment.

Read more:

• UK Universities Call For Shift In Current Student Loan Company To Resolve Financial Challenges
• Study In UK: University Of East London’s Students Shine In Civic Awards Social Media Campaign