Weekly Blogs - Canada Ends Post-Graduation Work Permit “Flagpoling”
In a move aimed at bolstering the efficiency and fairness of its immigration system, the Government of Canada announced an end to the practice of “flagpoling” for post-graduation work permit (PGWP) applicants as of June 21, 2024. This change, effective immediately, is part of broader efforts to streamline border operations and improve processing times for immigration applications.
What is Flagpoling?
Flagpoling occurs when temporary residents of Canada exit the country and then re-enter to expedite the processing of their work or study permits. This practice, though legal, is being said to divert significant resources at the border, causing delays for other travellers and disrupting the movement of goods. From March 1, 2023, to February 29, 2024, PGWP applicants constituted about one fifth of those attempting to flagpole.
Enhancing the Application Process
The Government of Canada is encouraging applicants to apply for work permits within the country. To facilitate this, several measures have been implemented:
Improved Processing Times: Efforts are ongoing to enhance the speed and efficiency of application processing.
Simplified Online Applications: Online forms and processes have been streamlined to ensure ease of application and to enable applicants to continue working while waiting for permit approval.
Immediate Work Authorization: Workers can now begin working for new employers immediately after submitting their work permit application, without waiting for the new permit to be processed.
Impact on Border Operations
The cessation of flagpoling is expected to free up border resources, allowing officers to focus on high-priority tasks such as processing high-risk travelers and facilitating trade. Recently, flagpoling hours were reduced at 12 ports of entry to manage peak period volumes more efficiently and to concentrate on key security priorities.
Conclusion
If you are an international graduate or an employer seeking guidance on navigating these changes and ensuring a smooth application process, we encourage you to contact our firm. With our expertise in immigration law and dedication to client success, we are here to assist you every step of the way. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your immigration goals.
Contact R&R Law LLP for Assistance
Please contact us or schedule a consultation call with our team. Also, to stay updated on the latest Canadian immigration news, we recommend following our LinkedIn page.
Regards,
Rema and Rebecca
