Flagpoling for work and study permits at ports of entry has been formally discontinued by the Canadian government. At 11:59 p.m. ET on December 23, 2024, the new policy went into force. Flagpoling made it possible for temporary residents to leave Canada and return in order to receive immigration services more quickly. To increase border security and efficiency, this practice is now prohibited.

What is Flagpoling?

Flagpoling was the process by which temporary residents left Canada for a short time, usually to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, and then returned to renew or acquire employment and study permits. This avoided using Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada's (IRCC) standard application procedures.

Nevertheless, flagpoling severely taxed border resources, according to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Between April 2023 and March 2024, more than 69,300 flagpoles were processed, mostly in areas such as Quebec, southern Ontario, and the Pacific. In addition to lengthening wait times for other passengers, the large volume took officers away from crucial border control duties.

David McGuinty, the minister of public safety, backed the prohibition, saying it frees up border personnel to concentrate on their enforcement duties. He made it clear that border services are intended for newcomers, not Canadian citizens.

Exemptions to the Ban

Immigration services are still available to some people at the border. These exclusions consist of:

• Residents and citizens of the United States.
• Technicians and professionals are covered by free trade agreements with the United States, Mexico, and other nations, such as Colombia and South Korea.
• Common-law partners and spouses of professionals covered by particular free trade agreements.
• International truck drivers with maintained status who travel outside of Canada for work.
• Those who have appointments with the CBSA that are already planned.

Applicants who don't fit these requirements will be sent to the IRCC.

Strengthening Canada-U.S. Relations

Flagpoling is prohibited as part of a larger initiative to improve border security. It coincides with U.S. concerns about migration and illegal substances. Citing security concerns, former US President Donald Trump had threatened to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian imports.

Canada responded by allocating $1.3 billion for border security in its autumn economic report. Increased resources for CBSA and other agencies, as well as surveillance equipment like drones and helicopters, will be funded.

Marc Miller, the minister of immigration, emphasized that flagpoling was a needless use of resources. According to him, the new approach would guarantee the security of the shared border, lessen traffic, and increase justice.

This move demonstrates Canada's will to uphold close relations with the United States while safeguarding its borders and immigration laws.

FAQS

What exactly is flagpoling?

Flagpoling is the practice of temporary residents of Canada leaving the country for a short period, mainly to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, and then returning to a port of entry to get immigration services, such as renewing or obtaining work and study permits.

What are the advantages of stopping flagpoling?

The restriction eases traffic, improves border operations management, and frees up funds for vital border enforcement initiatives. By preserving a safe shared border, it also improves Canada-U.S. ties and guarantees equity for all applicants.