Canada has announced the immediate cessation of "flagpoling" for post-graduation work permit (PGWP) applications at the U.S.-Canada border. This decision marks the culmination of measures implemented throughout 2024 to address immigration challenges and optimize border resources.
The Canadian government initiated its strategy to curb flagpoling in May 2024 by imposing restrictions on flagpoling hours at 12 key border entry points across British Columbia, Quebec, and Ontario. By limiting the hours when immigration services were available at these crossings, authorities sought to manage the flow of applicants better and redirect resources to critical border operations.
On June 21, 2024, Canada implemented a complete ban on PGWP applications at the border. This decision eliminates flagpoling for PGWP applicants, aligning with Canada's broader plan to reduce temporary residents. The change is supposed to encourage applicants to use online services, reduce border congestion, and allow border officers to focus on critical security and trade facilitation tasks.
Building on the May restrictions, Canada took a decisive step on June 21, 2024, by implementing a complete ban on PGWP applications at the border. This move eliminates flagpoling for PGWP applicants, pushing all applications to online platforms. Notable among these shifts is the cap on study permits, set at 360,000 - a 35% reduction from 2023 levels.
The new policy significantly impacts international graduates seeking PGWPs. Online-only applications may lead to longer processing times. Graduates must plan ahead, applying well before a study permit expiry to maintain legal status. Those rules reflect Canada's evolving approach to managing immigration while attracting international talent, boosting Canada's job market growth.
Nunavut, Canada's only territory without an immigration program, plans to hire an immigration advisor in 2024 to develop a tailored approach to its needs. Despite the housing crisis, the territory seeks to attract more immigrants to address its specific priorities and reflect its unique context and values.
Atom Egoyan, born in Egypt to Armenian parents, moved to Canada and became a celebrated filmmaker. His acclaimed films, like "The Sweet Hereafter," delve into profound themes and have garnered numerous awards. Egoyan's journey highlights the potential for immigrants to make significant cultural contributions and achieve remarkable success in Canada.