Are you waiting for your study or work permit in Canada? There is a faster way to get it done, but it comes with new restrictions.
Here is everything you need to know about flagpoling, its pros and cons, and the latest updates on border crossing rules. 🚦
What is Flagpoling? 🤔
Flagpoling is a process where non-Canadians with temporary status leave Canada and re-enter within 24 hours to get same-day immigration services. It is named after the literal flagpoles at many border crossings where you can turn around and come back.
Why Flagpoling? 🌟
Flagpoling allows you to skip the long wait times associated with applying online, which can be up to three months. It’s a legal workaround recognized by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
How It Works 📝
Leave Canada: Head to a nearby U.S. border crossing.
Re-enter Canada: Immediately turn back and re-enter Canada.
Get Processed: Apply for your study or work permit in person and get a decision on the spot.
Pros of Flagpoling 👍
Speed: Get your permit on the same day.
Efficiency: Skip the lengthy online application process.
Immediate Decision: Know your status right away.
Cons of Flagpoling 👎
Limited Locations: Now restricted at 12 major border crossings.
Risky: If you don’t have the correct paperwork, you could be denied entry.
Resource Intensive: Takes up significant border resources and can cause delays.
New Restrictions 🚧
W.e.f May 30, 2024, the CBSA has limited flagpoling at these 12 busy crossings:
Quebec region
Armstrong: Monday to Thursday, from 12 pm to 7 pm
Saint Armand/Philipsburg: Monday to Thursday, from 9 am to 3 pm
Saint Bernard-de-Lacolle: Monday to Thursday, from 12 pm to 7 pm
Stanstead Route 55: Monday to Thursday, from 8 am to 5 pm
Southern Ontario region
Fort Erie (Peace Bridge): Tuesday to Thursday, from 8 am to midnight
Niagara Falls Rainbow Bridge: Tuesday to Thursday, from 8 am to midnight
Queenston-Lewiston Bridge: Tuesday to Thursday, from 8 am to midnight
Pacific region
Abbotsford-Huntingdon: Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm
Aldergrove: Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm
Boundary Bay: Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 2 pm
Douglas: Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm
Pacific Highway: Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm
Why the Change? 🔄
The CBSA aims to improve efficiency during peak travel times and focus on other priorities like trade facilitation, high-risk travelers, and asylum seekers. This change is also in response to U.S. concerns about increased border traffic due to flagpoling.
Risks and Considerations ⚠️
Flagpoling can be risky. If you don’t have the right paperwork or fail to answer questions correctly, you could be denied entry and deported.
Alternative Solutions 💡
While flagpoling offers a quick solution, applying online might be safer and allows you to consult an immigration expert. The IRCC encourages online applications and highlights that applicants can maintain their status while waiting for new permits.
Conclusion ✨
Flagpoling can be a great option if you need your study or work permit quickly, but it comes with risks and new restrictions. Always ensure you have the right documentation and be aware of the specific times and locations where flagpoling is allowed.
🛂 Stay Informed, Stay Prepared
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