Canada Permanent Residence International Students Temporary Foreign Worker Program

Canadian Border: Work and Study Permit Changes

By: Mariam Baher

As part of the newly introduced Canada Border Plan, the Government of Canada announced a change affecting how work and study permits are processed at the border. As of December 23, 2024, flagpoling is no longer an option for individuals seeking to obtain or renew work and study permits at a port of entry.

What is Flagpoling?

Flagpoling is when foreign nationals, who are already residing temporarily (temporary residents) in Canada, leave the country and re-enter the country to access immigration services such as work or study permits at the border. While this was once permitted, it strained resources at border crossings and caused delays for other travellers.

Canada’s Border Plan

The Government of Canada’s Border Plan aims to improve the efficiency and security of border operations. By eliminating flagpoling, Canadian and U.S. border officers will be able to focus more on their primary responsibility which is border patrol and enforcement. Ultimately, the goal is to streamline activities at the border while maintaining a secure and well-managed immigration process. From now on, anyone seeking a work or study permit will need to submit their application through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) instead of these permits being issued at the port of entry (the border).

Exceptions

While this new rule applies to most applicants, there are a few exceptions. Flagpoling may still be allowed in specific circumstances, including for U.S. citizens, certain professionals under trade agreements (such as with Mexico, Chile, and South Korea etc.), and individuals with pre-scheduled appointments for permit processing. For a full list of exempt individuals please visit the government website.

If you were planning to apply for a work or study permit through flagpoling, this new policy means that you will need to go through the official IRCC application process instead.

Stay informed about these changes and how they might affect your immigration plans. If you need assistance applying for or renewing your work or study permit, contact us today.