flagpoling for your work permit
In 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) implemented significant changes to the process of obtaining work permits at Canada’s land borders, aiming to enhance border security and streamline immigration services.
End of Flagpoling Practice
A notable change is the termination of “flagpoling,” a practice where temporary residents exit Canada and re-enter through a land border to receive same-day immigration services, such as work or study permit. Effective December 23, 2024, this method is no longer permitted – for most applicants.
This changes affects New and Renewal applications of all type of work permits including Open Work Permits like:
- Post Graduation Open Work Permit (PGWP), Spousal Open Work Permit, Bridging Open Work Permit & more.
- Closed Work Permit with Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and LMIA exempt International Mobility Program (IMP).
Except for:
the above changes does not apply to the individuals in the following group
- Citizens and lawful permanent residents of the United States.
- Professionals and technicians under free trade agreements with countries like the U.S., Mexico, Chile, Panama, Peru, Colombia, and South Korea.
- Spouses of professionals and technicians covered by specific free trade agreements (FTAs).
- International truck drivers holding valid work permits who had applied for renewal before departure.
- Individuals with pre-scheduled appointments with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for permit processing.
Implications for Applicants
IRCC now requires most work and study permit applications, including renewals, to be submitted through its online system.
Applicants must now plan ahead, ensuring they apply for permit renewals well before their current permits expire. The online application process may involve longer processing times compared to the immediate results previously available through flagpoling. Therefore, timely submission and thorough preparation of application materials are crucial.