**Title: Canada Clamps Down on Border “Flagpoling” to Streamline Immigration Processes**
In a bid to enhance efficiency at the bustling Canada-United States border, the Canadian government has implemented measures to combat the practice of “flagpoling,” which has been causing delays and inefficiencies in immigration procedures. Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, made the announcement today, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the immigration system whilst improving the flow of goods and people across the border.
Effective immediately, foreign nationals seeking post-graduation work permits (PGWPs) are no longer able to apply at the border, a move aimed at reducing “flagpoling.” This practice involves individuals exiting and re-entering the country to expedite the process of obtaining work permits, straining border resources and causing delays for legitimate travelers and trade.
Statistics reveal that from March 2023 to February 2024, PGWP applicants accounted for a significant portion of those engaging in flagpoling. The shift towards encouraging applicants to apply within Canada is part of a broader strategy to streamline application processing and ensure fairness among all candidates.
Minister Miller expressed support for international graduates while noting the unnecessary burden that flagpoling places on border services officers. The move is designed to refocus efforts on protecting the safety and security of Canadians and Americans and fostering a more efficient border operation.
Recent adjustments to border procedures include a reduction in flagpoling hours at various Canadian ports of entry, allowing officers to concentrate on managing high volumes of travelers and prioritizing security concerns. The government’s ongoing efforts to combat flagpoling underscore its commitment to a smooth and secure transnational flow that benefits both nations.
In a joint statement, Minister Miller and Minister of Public Safety, Dominic LeBlanc, emphasized the need to uphold the integrity of the shared border and safeguard its critical functions. By curbing flagpoling practices, officials aim to bolster the robustness of immigration systems and facilitate legitimate travel and trade activities.
As Canada continues to enhance its immigration processes and border operations, the focus remains on creating a harmonious environment that promotes economic prosperity and personal connections between Canadians and Americans.
In a bid to enhance efficiency at the bustling Canada-United States border, the Canadian government has implemented measures to combat the practice of “flagpoling,” which has been causing delays and inefficiencies in immigration procedures. Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, made the announcement today, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the immigration system whilst improving the flow of goods and people across the border.
Effective immediately, foreign nationals seeking post-graduation work permits (PGWPs) are no longer able to apply at the border, a move aimed at reducing “flagpoling.” This practice involves individuals exiting and re-entering the country to expedite the process of obtaining work permits, straining border resources and causing delays for legitimate travelers and trade.
Statistics reveal that from March 2023 to February 2024, PGWP applicants accounted for a significant portion of those engaging in flagpoling. The shift towards encouraging applicants to apply within Canada is part of a broader strategy to streamline application processing and ensure fairness among all candidates.
Minister Miller expressed support for international graduates while noting the unnecessary burden that flagpoling places on border services officers. The move is designed to refocus efforts on protecting the safety and security of Canadians and Americans and fostering a more efficient border operation.
Recent adjustments to border procedures include a reduction in flagpoling hours at various Canadian ports of entry, allowing officers to concentrate on managing high volumes of travelers and prioritizing security concerns. The government’s ongoing efforts to combat flagpoling underscore its commitment to a smooth and secure transnational flow that benefits both nations.
In a joint statement, Minister Miller and Minister of Public Safety, Dominic LeBlanc, emphasized the need to uphold the integrity of the shared border and safeguard its critical functions. By curbing flagpoling practices, officials aim to bolster the robustness of immigration systems and facilitate legitimate travel and trade activities.
As Canada continues to enhance its immigration processes and border operations, the focus remains on creating a harmonious environment that promotes economic prosperity and personal connections between Canadians and Americans.
