Canada Ends Flagpoling —A Major Policy Shift 2025

Canada Ends Flagpoling — A Major Policy Shift in 2025

In April 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that flagpoling for work permit and study permit renewals is officially ended. This major policy update means that temporary residents, including international students, foreign nationals, and their common-law partners, can no longer rely on border crossings at Canada U.S. land ports to maintain or renew their temporary resident status. Instead, permit renewals must now be processed exclusively online via IRCC.

What Is Flagpoling in Canada?

Flagpoling was a practical shortcut for those holding or applying for work and study permits. By stepping outside Canada, often into the U.S., and immediately returning with a fresh application, travellers could receive same day immigration services at the port of entry. It was a quick way to update or extend a visa without going through IRCC’s usual processing, and it became popular among students, skilled workers, and others whose permits were expiring.

Why Did Canada End Flagpoling in 2025?

The decision to end flagpoling arose from logistical challenges faced by border officials. Census data showed more than 69,300 flagpole entries between April 2023 and March 2024. Those frequent crossings caused border congestion, strained border enforcement resources, and interfered with critical enforcement activities. In response, the federal government decided that IRCC applications for work permit extensions and study permit renewals should be managed through their online system to help effectively manage border operations and maintain a clear link between IRCC's immigration services and Canada’s entry requirements.

Who Is Affected by This Policy Change?

All temporary residents in Canada who previously relied on flagpoling will be affected. This includes international students transitioning to a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), temporary foreign workers renewing LMIA-based work permits, and their spouses or common-law partners. Visitors who previously switched to work or study status at the border will no longer be able to do so, and even U.S.-based residents who crossed the border as cross border travellers to update status may now face refusals. The end of flagpoling also impacts those in free trade agreements (such as professionals from the U.S., Mexico, South Korea, Chile, Panama, Peru, or Colombia) who relied on expedited border permit processing. All permit renewals now require applying through IRCC with permit processing timelines and not via a quick border visit.

Who Is Exempted

In very limited circumstances, work and study permits may still be granted at a ports of entry to individuals who otherwise meet the definition of flagpoling. The exemptions include:

• Citizens and lawful Permanent Residents of the United States of America;

• Professionals and technicians under free trade agreements with the United States/Mexico, Chile, Panama, Peru, Colombia and South Korea;

• Spouses or common law partners of professionals and technicians under free trade agreements with Panama, Colombia and South Korea;

• International truck drivers who hold a work permit, where required to depart Canada for the purpose of their employment and held maintained status as a result of applying for renewal prior to departure; and

• Individuals who have a pre-existing appointment booked with the CBSA for permit processing.

How Will Permit Renewals Work Now in 2025?

With flagpoling gone, the renewal of study permits, work permits, and post graduation work permits must begin online well before they expire. IRCC processing may take significant resources and several months, so applicants are advised to submit their application at least three to four months in advance. When the renewal is filed online before expiry, applicants can continue studying or working under maintained status while awaiting a decision. New IRCC policy changes introduced in May 2025 mean maintained status ends immediately if an application is refused, rather than permitting a further temporary stay. Therefore, careful planning is essential to avoid losing temporary resident status.

Alternatives to Flagpoling: The New Way Forward

Given the end of flagpoling, here is how temporary residents can adapt:

• Apply Online Early
  Plan ahead and apply for your work permit or study permit renewal through IRCC’s online portal. Ensure that all documentation—such as LMIA or education confirmation—is included.

• Maintain Status Separation
  File the renewal application before your permit expires to retain maintained status. However, know that refusal now ends that status immediately.

• Use Immigration Support
  To avoid IRCC processing delays and mistakes, consider hiring trusted immigration lawyers like AKM Law. An experienced team can help you manage the online system and maintain your legal status in Canada.

• Understand Processing Delays
  Online applications are not instant. Temporary residents may face wait times of several months. Avoid last-minute applications that could result in permit gaps.

Risks of Attempting to Flagpole After the Ban

Even though flagpoling was once routine, trying to cross the border for the purpose of visa renewal now carries risks. Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers are likely to refuse entry or deny the renewal request on the spot. In some cases, travellers may be fined or face denied entry and longer-term consequences. Flagpoling now clearly violates IRCC policy, and those who attempt it may jeopardize future applications for permanent resident status or citizenship Canada.

Flagpoling Is Gone, but You Still Have Options

The end of border-based permit processing does not mean fewer options for temporary residents. Renewals and status changes are still possible, just through planned, online applications. You can maintain legal status, continue working or studying, and prepare for permanent residence applications without interruption. Timely online filings, accurate documentation, and legal guidance can help you navigate this new policy seamlessly. AKM Law’s immigration team is available to support clients through work permit renewals, PGWP transitions, study permit extensions, and other temporary resident matters.

Legal Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal advice, consult the relevant legislation or regulations, or contact our immigration lawyers directly.