“Canada Takes Bold Step Against ‘Flagpoling’ at the US Border”
In a move to streamline border operations and crack down on the practice of ‘flagpoling,’ Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has announced a significant policy change. Effective immediately, foreign nationals will no longer be able to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) at the border, as announced by the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
Flagpoling, a method where temporary residents leave and re-enter Canada to receive same-day immigration services, has been a growing concern. This process not only uses vital resources at the border but also causes delays for legitimate travellers and slows down the movement of goods, affecting the efficiency of the shared border with the US.
Statistics between March 1, 2023, and February 29, 2024, show that PGWP applicants made up a significant portion of those attempting to flagpole. The Canadian government aims to deter this practice by encouraging applicants to apply within Canada, promoting fairness and efficiency within the immigration system.
The objective of this change is not only to combat ‘flagpoling’ but also to enhance the integrity and security of the border. The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions, and Intergovernmental Affairs, emphasized the importance of supporting border services officers and maintaining a focus on key priorities.
Recent adjustments, including reduced flagpoling hours at various entry points and centralized processing improvements, are part of the government’s strategy to streamline border operations and deter fraudulent practices. These measures will play a vital role in ensuring a smooth and efficient flow of goods and people across the Canada–United States border, benefitting both nations.
In a move to streamline border operations and crack down on the practice of ‘flagpoling,’ Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has announced a significant policy change. Effective immediately, foreign nationals will no longer be able to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) at the border, as announced by the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
Flagpoling, a method where temporary residents leave and re-enter Canada to receive same-day immigration services, has been a growing concern. This process not only uses vital resources at the border but also causes delays for legitimate travellers and slows down the movement of goods, affecting the efficiency of the shared border with the US.
Statistics between March 1, 2023, and February 29, 2024, show that PGWP applicants made up a significant portion of those attempting to flagpole. The Canadian government aims to deter this practice by encouraging applicants to apply within Canada, promoting fairness and efficiency within the immigration system.
The objective of this change is not only to combat ‘flagpoling’ but also to enhance the integrity and security of the border. The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions, and Intergovernmental Affairs, emphasized the importance of supporting border services officers and maintaining a focus on key priorities.
Recent adjustments, including reduced flagpoling hours at various entry points and centralized processing improvements, are part of the government’s strategy to streamline border operations and deter fraudulent practices. These measures will play a vital role in ensuring a smooth and efficient flow of goods and people across the Canada–United States border, benefitting both nations.
