Canada ended border 'flagpoling' practice for work and study permits

The Government of Canada has announced that starting December 23 at 11:59 PM ET, foreign nationals will no longer be able to secure work and study permits through a process known as 'flagpoling' at ports of entry. This change is part of an initiative to enhance border management as outlined in Canada’s Border Plan.

'Flagpoling' refers to the practice of foreign nationals who already hold temporary resident status in Canada exiting the country and re-entering after a brief visit to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon to access immigration services at the port of entry. This method has placed a strain on border resources, diverting the attention of Canadian and American officials away from essential enforcement tasks and increasing wait times for cross-border travellers.

Border immigration services are designated for those entering Canada rather than for individuals already present in the country. Consequently, applications and renewals for work or study permits should now be directed to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Individuals who attempt 'flagpoling' to obtain work and study permits will be instructed to submit their applications through the IRCC unless they qualify for specific exemptions.

This policy modification is intended to enhance operational efficiency for both Canada and the U.S., thereby upholding the integrity of their shared border.

Limited Exemptions

In exceptional cases, work and study permits may still be processed at a port of entry for individuals who meet the criteria related to 'flagpoling'. Exceptions include:

• Citizens and lawful permanent residents of the United States.
• Professionals and technicians as defined by free trade agreements with the U.S./Mexico, Chile, Panama, Peru, Colombia, and South Korea.
• Spouses or common-law partners of professionals and technicians covered under free trade agreements with Panama, Colombia, and South Korea.
• International truck drivers holding a work permit who must leave Canada for employment reasons and maintain their status by applying for a renewal before departing.
• Individuals who have a pre-scheduled appointment with the CBSA to process permits.

From April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) managed over 69,300 'flagpoling' instances across Canada, primarily in the Pacific, Southern Ontario, and Quebec regions.