Canada has recently announced a significant policy change regarding the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) applications for international students. As of June 21, 2024, the practice known as "flagpoling" has been eliminated. Flagpoling involves temporary residents leaving Canada and re-entering immediately to obtain same-day immigration services at the border, bypassing standard processing times for permits applied online.
Impact on International Students:
Application Process:
No More Border Applications: PGWP applications can no longer be submitted at ports of entry such as airports, land, and marine borders. This move aims to streamline the application process and reduce the workload on border services.
Online Applications Encouraged: Students must now apply for their PGWP online from within Canada. This change is expected to improve processing times and create a more integrated and efficient system.
Processing Times and Resources:
Resource Allocation: The elimination of flagpoling is intended to free up resources at the border, allowing officers to focus on critical enforcement activities and improving the overall efficiency of border operations.
Enhanced Fairness: By requiring online applications, the government aims to ensure a fairer process for all applicants, preventing some from gaining an unfair advantage through border applications.
Work Authorization and Compliance:
Work While Waiting: International students who apply for a PGWP before their study permit expires can work full-time while waiting for their permit approval. They receive an automated letter to show to employers, ensuring they can continue working without interruption.
Compliance and Integrity: This measure is part of a broader effort to enforce compliance with immigration rules and maintain the integrity of Canada’s immigration system. The changes discourage any misuse of the flagpoling practice and ensure that applicants meet all necessary requirements.
Challenges and Adaptations:
Potential Delays: While this change aims to reduce overall processing times, there may be initial delays for students who were accustomed to the quicker border processing. Applicants will need to adjust to the new system and plan accordingly to avoid disruptions in their ability to work or stay in Canada.
Restoration Applications: If a PGWP application is rejected and more than 90 days have passed since program completion, the applicant must apply for restoration and cannot work during this period. This underscores the importance of submitting complete and accurate applications.
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Government Perspective: The Canadian government, particularly the Ministry of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, emphasizes that these changes support the contributions of international graduates while maintaining the country’s safety, security, and economic prosperity. The move is seen as a necessary step to ensure that border officers can focus on their primary duties without the added burden of processing PGWP applications at the border.
Conclusion: This policy shift marks a significant change for international students in Canada. While it may require adjustments, the government’s promise of improved processing times and a more streamlined system offers potential benefits. Students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new application procedures and ensure they meet all requirements to avoid any interruptions in their post-graduation plans.
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