Canada has prohibited foreign nationals from applying for post-graduation work permits (PGWP) at the border. This move, aimed at reducing “flagpoling,” is expected to improve the efficiency of border operations and alleviate delays. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) encourages applicants to submit their applications within the country to promote fairness and streamline processing.
Government Announcement on PGWP Applications
Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, recently announced the immediate ban on border applications for PGWPs. This decision targets flagpoling, where temporary residents leave and re-enter Canada to expedite their immigration processes. This practice has significantly strained border resources, diverting officers from crucial enforcement duties and causing delays for travelers and trade.
Impact of Flagpoling on Border Resources
From March 1, 2023, to February 29, 2024, around 20% of PGWP applicants engaged in flagpoling. The Canadian government now urges applicants to apply from within the country. Efforts are being made to enhance processing times and transition to a more modernized application system for faster global processing.
Ensuring Fairness and Efficiency
The new measure aims to ensure fairness among applicants and is part of a broader strategy to enhance the efficiency of the Canada-US border. “We’ll continue to look for ways to reduce flagpoling so our shared border with the US runs smoothly and efficiently, benefitting both our nations,” said Miller.
Changes for International Students
International students in Canada should be aware of significant changes in flagpoling procedures at 12 major ports of entry. These changes, introduced to streamline operations during peak travel periods, affect how students transition from study permits to work permits.
Key Points for Graduates and Employers
- Post-Graduation Work Permit Applications: Eligible graduates must apply online for a PGWP before their study permits expire. This allows them to work full-time while waiting for PGWP approval. They receive an automated letter for employers, and the approved permit is mailed directly to them.
- Reduction in Flagpoling Hours: The reduction aims to help border services officers manage high volumes of travelers and focus on high-risk individuals and trade facilitation.
Mitigating the Impact on Foreign Workers
In response to these changes, several measures have been implemented to support international students and foreign workers:
- Accelerated Processing: Efforts are underway to speed up processing times for in-Canada work permit applications.
- Simplified Applications: Online application forms and processes have been simplified, allowing foreign nationals to work while awaiting decisions on new applications.
- Immediate Employment: Workers can start with new employers immediately without waiting for new work permit applications to be processed.
These measures ensure that foreign nationals can continue their professional activities without significant disruption despite the changes in flagpoling procedures.
 at the border. This move, aimed at reducing "flagpoling," is expected to improve the efficiency of border operations and alleviate delays.){kind=link}