Canada Bans Border Applications for Post-Graduation Work Permits

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Key Takeaways:

Canada has banned PGWP border applications to curb “flagpoling,” promoting fairness and improving processing efficiency.
Flagpoling strains border resources; 20% of cases from March 2023 to February 2024 involved PGWP applicants.
New measures include speeding up processing, simplifying online applications, and allowing immediate employment with new employers.

Canada Bans Border Applications for Post-Graduation Work Permits: What You Need to Know

What Changes Have Been Made to PGWP Applications at the Border?

Recently, Canada has banned foreign nationals from applying for post-graduation work permits (PGWP) at the border, effective immediately. This new regulation aims to curb the practice known as “flagpoling,” where temporary residents exit and re-enter Canada to receive same-day immigration services, thereby bypassing the regular wait times. Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, stated that this move is designed to improve processing efficiency and ensure fairness among applicants.

Why Has Canada Implemented a Flagpoling Crackdown?

Flagpoling has been a significant issue, as it strains border resources and causes delays. From March 1, 2023, to February 29, 2024, PGWP applicants made up about 20% of foreign nationals engaging in flagpoling. This practice diverts officers from enforcement activities and impacts the movement of travelers and goods.

Miller emphasized, “We’ll continue to look for ways to reduce flagpoling so our shared border with the US runs smoothly and efficiently, benefitting both our nations.”

How Are International Students Affected by the New Regulations?

International students in Canada, who often transition from study permits to work permits, are directly impacted by these changes. The government has introduced significant updates to flagpoling procedures at 12 major ports of entry to streamline operations and enhance efficiency during peak travel periods.

Many international students find that their study permits expire 90 days after completing their programs. Those eligible for PGWP who apply online before their study permits expire can continue to work full-time while their applications are processed. They receive an automated letter to show employers, and the approved work permit is mailed directly to them.

What Measures Has the Government Introduced to Mitigate the Impact?

In response to the new regulations, Canadian authorities have implemented several measures to minimize disruptions for international students and foreign workers. These measures include:
– Speeding up processing times for in-Canada work permit applications.
– Simplifying online application processes, making it easier for foreign nationals to work while awaiting decisions on new applications.
– Allowing workers to start with new employers immediately without needing to wait for the new work permit application to be processed.

These steps are geared towards ensuring that foreign nationals can continue their professional activities without significant disruption.

How Can Applicants Apply for PGWP Within Canada?

To apply for a PGWP within Canada, eligible graduates should follow these steps:
1. Complete the online application through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
2. Submit required documents including proof of graduation and other relevant information.
3. Pay the application fees and wait for processing. Applicants can continue to work while waiting for approval if they apply before their study permits expire.

For more details and to start the application, visit the IRCC official website.

What Are the Benefits of No Longer Allowing Border Applications?

By ceasing border applications for PGWP, Canada aims to allocate more resources towards managing high volumes of travelers and focusing on high-risk individuals and trade facilitation. This change in policy should help ensure a more efficient and streamlined border operation, benefiting both Canada and the US.

Stay Informed and Updated

It is essential for international students and foreign workers to stay informed about changes in immigration policies. These updates might come often and can impact your ability to work or study in Canada. As per VisaVerge.com, keeping an eye on official announcements and adjusting your plans accordingly can save time and prevent unnecessary hassles at the border.

For authoritative information, always refer to the IRCC official guidelines on post-graduation work permits. This ensures you’re receiving the most current and accurate information regarding your immigration status.

Learn Today:

Glossary of Terms

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): A work permit granted to international students who have graduated from a designated learning institution in Canada, allowing them to work in the country for a specified period.
Flagpoling: The practice where temporary residents in Canada exit the country and re-enter to receive immediate immigration services, such as applying for work permits, thereby bypassing the usual processing times.
Study Permit: A document issued by Canadian immigration authorities that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada for the duration of their course or program.
Ports of Entry (PoE): Official locations (such as airports, land border crossings, and maritime borders) where individuals and goods are legally allowed to enter a country. In the context of Canada, major PoEs are often used for immigration processing.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): The Canadian government department responsible for immigration, settlement, refugees, and citizenship services, including the processing of applications for visas and permits.

This Article In A Nutshell:

Canada has banned border applications for Post-Graduation Work Permits to combat “flagpoling.” Now, international students must apply online before their study permits expire to continue working. This change aims to improve processing efficiency and border operations. For more details, visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
— By VisaVerge.com

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