IRCC Ends Flagpoling for PGWP Applicants

As of June 21, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that foreign nationals can no longer apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) at their Canadian port of entry (POE). This change is effective immediately.

Reason for the Change

Immigration Minister Marc Miller explained that this measure aims to reduce "flagpoling" and allow border officers more time for enforcement activities. It is also expected to decrease delays for travelers and expedite the movement of commercial goods between Canada and the United States.

Impact on Fairness and Efficiency

The IRCC believes this change will increase fairness among applicants and is committed to finding additional ways to reduce flagpoling in the future. Minister Miller stated, "While we continue to support and recognize the contributions of international graduates to Canada’s labor market, 'flagpoling' is unnecessary. This measure will help prevent this practice while maintaining the integrity of our immigration system."

Addressing Processing Time Concerns

To address concerns about lengthy processing times for PGWP applications, IRCC is taking several steps:

• Speeding up processing times for in-Canada work permit applications.
• Simplifying online application forms and processes so foreign nationals can continue working while waiting for a decision on their new application.
• Authorizing workers to start working for a new employer immediately rather than waiting for their new work permit application to be processed.
  
  

What is Flagpoling?

Flagpoling is a legal practice where eligible temporary residents (those on a work/study permit or with a visitor visa/electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)) can receive immigration services by exiting and re-entering Canada through a designated POE within 24 hours. This process allows them to avoid long waiting periods and processing times associated with online or paper applications to IRCC. Additionally, it provides the opportunity to speak with an immigration official face-to-face, which can be helpful for addressing issues with an immigration application.

Caution Advised

The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) advises newcomers to use flagpoling services carefully, as wait times at POEs can be long and there are potential immigration implications if temporary residents mismanage their departure and re-entry into Canada. Newcomers engaging in flagpoling are strongly encouraged to maintain valid legal status or have maintained status in Canada when leaving and re-entering. Out-of-status newcomers who attempt to use flagpoling services risk deportation.

For those affected by this change, IRCC is working to ensure that the process for applying for and receiving PGWPs remains efficient and fair, even without the option to flagpole.