If you’re considering flagpoling to renew your work or study permit, you should reconsider. Recent changes announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have significantly restricted the ability to process temporary resident applications at the border. As of January 31, 2025, border officers have been granted increased authority to cancel visas, work permits, and study permits. This means that flagpoling is not just a poor strategy—it now risks stripping you of your status in Canada.
What is Flagpoling?
Flagpoling refers to the practice of leaving Canada, usually by briefly crossing into the United States, and immediately re-entering to apply for immigration services at the border. Many temporary residents have used this method in the past to obtain or renew their work and study permits without waiting for IRCC’s internal processing times. However, this approach has long been discouraged, and the new regulations make it even riskier.
New Rules Make Flagpoling Risky
The IRCC’s latest changes grant border officers the authority to cancel temporary resident visas (TRVs), electronic travel authorizations (eTAs), and permits when:
There is evidence that the individual is inadmissible or ineligible for their requested status.
The applicant is suspected of not leaving Canada at the end of their authorized stay.
The document has been reported lost, stolen, or is otherwise invalid.
A person has obtained permanent residence, rendering their previous temporary status void.
The permit or visa was issued in error.
Consequences of Flagpoling Under the New Rules
If you attempt to flagpole and an officer determines that you no longer meet the eligibility criteria for your permit, they now have the authority to cancel your visa or work permit on the spot. This could mean being refused entry back into Canada and losing your legal status, leaving you stranded with limited options for reapplying. Additionally, border officers are under no obligation to process your application at the port of entry—they can simply instruct you to apply through regular IRCC channels.
What Should You Do Instead?
Rather than attempting to shortcut the system through flagpoling, we strongly recommend submitting your application through IRCC’s official channels. While processing times may vary, applying online or through proper inland processing routes ensures that you retain maintained status while waiting for a decision.
If your application is time-sensitive, consulting us can help you explore legitimate options, such as requesting expedited processing in urgent situations.
How Elliott Immigration Corporation Can Help
Navigating the complexities of Canadian immigration system requires up-to-date knowledge of the most current government policies, procedures, and guidelines.
At Elliott Immigration Corporation, we specialize in helping individuals and businesses maintain compliance with evolving immigration policies. If you are uncertain about your options, our team can provide tailored advice to ensure your application is processed efficiently and without unnecessary risks.
Before you consider flagpoling, reach out to us for a consultation. We can help you secure your status in Canada without jeopardizing your future here.
