How to apply for a visa in Canada through flagpoling?

How to apply for a visa through flagpoling?

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Attention, new measures for PGWP after 6/21/2024

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If you are planning to travel to Canada, it is likely that you will need a visa to do so. We know that the visa application process can seem overwhelming, but there are some strategies that will allow you to do it in an easier and more effective way, one of them is called flagpoling which allows you to apply for your visa while you are physically present at the Canadian border. 

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In this article, we will explain what flagpoling is, why you might consider it and how to use it.

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What is flagpoling?

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Flagpoling is an English language term used to describe the process of exiting and re-entering from and into Canada at a land border crossing or port of entry (POE) for the purpose of applying for a visa. In other words, you are crossing the border specifically to apply for your visa in person. 

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When a foreign national who already has temporary residence in Canada crosses the border into the United States, but does not enter the country, he or she is using a process called flagpoling. This implies that he/she returns to Canada immediately to receive immigration services the same day, for example, a renewal or a modification of his/her status. 

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Flagpoling is commonly employed at all points of entry, but is most prevalent at land border crossings, particularly in the Niagara region of Ontario, and is a completely legal practice that has been going on for years and is becoming increasingly well known as a result of IRCC backlogs.

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Why choose flagpoling?

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Some reasons why you may choose the flagpoling process to apply for your visa are:

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First, because it can be faster than applying through the traditional mail process, as you will have the opportunity to speak directly with a border officer, which can expedite the processing of your application.

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In addition, if you are already in Canada on a temporary visa, for example, a visitor visa, you would not be able to apply for a new visa while in the country. In this case, flagpoling may be a convenient option that would allow you to exit and re-enter the country, giving you the opportunity to apply for your new visa.

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Normally, the IRCC processes immigration applications and creates policy, while the CBSA is in charge of enforcing immigration law and has a limited role in granting immigration status, which is why the CBSA prefers to have the IRCC handle this task. As a result, CBSA officers become upset when individuals approach the border to process their applications, resulting in any of the following problems that may arise during the flagpoling process:

• No officer is present to handle your request.
• Applications are only accepted at the land border during specific times or days of the week.
• When the daily quota is exceeded, officers stop accepting new applications.
• You do not have all the required documentation or do not meet the application requirements.
• Officials determine that you cannot enter Canada. 

In these circumstances, the applicant may experience any of the following problems: 

• You should repeat the procedure the next day when you return.
• After entering Canada, the officer will ask you to submit an online or paper application.
• The officer will issue a deportation order.
• On rare occasions, he could even go to jail.

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The flagpoling process varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your personal circumstances, however, these are the general steps you should follow:

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Step 1: Gather your documents before you leave for the border and make sure you have all the necessary documents for your visa application. This may include your passport, letter of introduction, representative forms and supporting documents such as letters of acceptance or job offers, resume, letters of employment references, LMIAs or proof of funds, etc.

Step 2: Choose a land border crossing that is convenient to reach. Some well-known options include the Peace Bridge in Fort Erie, Ontario, and the Pacific Highway crossing in Surrey, British Columbia.

 For more information, please consult the CBSA Directory at the following link https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/do-rb/menu-eng.html.

Step 3: Prepare for your visit. Dress appropriately and arrive early at the border. You may have to wait in line, so bring any necessary items, as well as food and water.

Step 4: When you arrive at the border, inform the CBSA officer that you are flagpoling and wish to apply for a visa. The officer will probably ask you a series of questions to determine your eligibility and may ask you to show your documents.

Step 5: Make your application. If the border officer determines that you are eligible, he or she may ask for your documents for review and will ask you a series of questions about you and the purpose of your application.

Step 6: Wait for a decision on your application. This may take several hours, so be prepared to wait at the border. If your application is approved, the border official will print the appropriate permit.

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Recommended input ports (POEs) to perform flagpoling

• Peach Arch/Douglas (British Columbia/Washington State).
• Fraser (Yukon/Alaska).
• St. Stephen (New Brunswick/Maine).
• Rainbow Bridge, Niagara Falls (Ontario/New York).
• Peace Bridge, Fort Erie (Ontario/New York).
• Ambassador Bridge, Windsor (Ontario/New York).

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Not recommended ports of entry (POEs) for flagpoling

• Sweetgrass/Coutts (Alberta/Montana).
• Sarnia/Port Huron (Ontario/Michigan).
• Boundary Bay (British Columbia/Washington State).

Always call the port of entry to confirm if that POE can process your application through flagpoling.

For more information, please consult the CBSA Directory at the following link https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/do-rb/menu-eng.html.

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Timetables and requirements for renewal of work and study permits or application for confirmation of permanent residency at ports of entry

Renewal of work and study permits at Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle and Saint-Armand/Philipsburg

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has established service hours for processing work and study permit renewal applications at the St-Bernard-de-Lacolle and St-Armand/Philipsburg ports of entry submitted by individuals who:

• They currently reside in Canada.
• Possess a valid work or study permit.
• They traveled to the United States for the sole purpose of submitting their permit application at a Canadian port of entry.

If you meet these criteria, then you may apply for a renewed work or study permit at these ports of entry.

On the other hand, please note that when entering the country, according to R214 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, you can only apply to CBSA for a study permit if:

• You are a national or permanent resident of the United States.
• You have been lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence.

Schedule of services

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Saint Armand/Philipsburg

Monday through Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. to 15:00 p.m.

Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Saint Bernard-de-Lacolle

Monday to Thursday, from 12:00 noon to 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Outside these hours, any person who meets the requirements described above and crosses the St-Bernard-de-Lacolle or St-Armand/Philipsburg border to apply for a work or study permit will be admitted into Canada, in accordance with the requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, however, their application will not be processed at the St-Bernard-de-Lacolle or St-Armand/Philipsburg ports of entry, and they will be invited to submit their application to IRCC from Canada.

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Applications for renewal of study and work permits and processing of permanent residence confirmation at the Peace Bridge, Queenston-Lewiston Bridge and Rainbow Bridge.

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The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has implemented service hours for processing confirmation of permanent residence and work and study permit applications at the Fort Erie (Peace Bridge), Niagara-on-the-Lake (Queenston-Lewiston Bridge) and Niagara Falls (Rainbow Bridge) ports of entry submitted by individuals who:

• They currently reside in Canada.
• They hold a valid work or study permit, or are holders of a temporary residence status.
• They traveled to the United States for the sole purpose of submitting their permit application at a Canadian port of entry.

If a person meets these criteria, then he or she may apply for confirmation of permanent residence or renewal of a work or study permit at the above ports of entry.

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Schedule of services

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Peace Bridge, the Queenston-Lewiston Bridge and the Rainbow Bridge.

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, from 8:00 a.m. to midnight.

Outside of these scheduled hours, any person who meets the requirements described above and crosses the border at the Peace Bridge, the Queenston-Lewiston Bridge or the Rainbow Bridge to apply for confirmation of permanent residence or to apply for a work or study permit will be admitted into Canada, However, your application will not be processed at the Fort Erie (Peace Bridge), Niagara-on-the-Lake (Queenston-Lewiston Bridge) or Niagara Falls (Rainbow Bridge) ports of entry, and you will be required to submit your application to IRCC from Canada.

Please note that even during scheduled hours, some applications may not be processed due to high volumes and excessive wait times and you may be invited to apply online. 

For more information about and access to IRCC services, please visit IRCC or call 1-888-242-2100.

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Updated ports of entry to Canada

The CBSA will resume pre-pandemic operational hours of service at 39 land ports of entry and three air ports of entry (POEs for both ports), according to the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Public Safety and Security, in March. This measure came into effect on March 31, 2023 and was adopted to facilitate entry into Canada through the land and air ports of entry. In addition, the Chief Mountain POE and the Bloomfield POE, which underwent infrastructure maintenance, were reopened for the season.

Alberta

Port of entry

Updated hours:
7 days a week

Carway

7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Chief Mountain

9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (May 15 to May 31)
7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (June 1 to Labour Day)
9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (after Labour Day to September 30)
Closed (October 1 to May 14)

Del Bonita

8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (June 1 to September 15)
9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (September 16 to May 31)

Wild Horse

8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (May 15 to September 30)
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (October 1 to May 14)

British Columbia

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Port of entry

Updated hours:
7 days a week

Cascade

8:00 a.m. to midnight

Nelway

8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Rykerts

8:00 a.m. to midnight (first Saturday in November to 2nd Saturday in March)
7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. (2nd Sunday in March to first Sunday in November)

Manitoba

Port of entry

Updated hours:
7 days a week

Cartwright

8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Coulter

8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Crystal City

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Goodlands

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Gretna

8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Lena

8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Lyleton

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Piney

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Snowflake

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

South Junction

8:00 a.m. to midnight

Tolstoy

8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Windygates

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Winkler

8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

New Brunswick

Port of entry

Updated hours

Bloomfield

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Monday to Saturday, except holidays)

Fosterville

8:00 a.m. to midnight (last Monday of May to the first Monday of September)
8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (first Monday of September to the last Monday of May)
7 days a week

Gillespie Portage

7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. 7 days a week

Quebec

Port of entry

Updated hours:
7 days a week

Chartierville

8:00 a.m. to midnight

Frelighsburg

24/7

Hemmingford

24/7

Highwater

24/7

Lacolle Route 221

24/7

Stanstead (Route 143)

24/7

Trout River

24/7

Saskatchewan

Port of entry

Updated hours:
7 days a week

Carievale

8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (2nd Sunday in March to first Saturday in November)
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (remainder of the year)

Climax

9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (2nd Sunday in March to May 31)
8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (June 1 to September 15)
9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (September 16 to first Saturday in November)
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (first Sunday in November to 2nd Saturday in March)

Coronach

8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (2nd Sunday in March to May 31)
8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (June 1 to September 15)
8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (September 16 to the first Saturday In November)
9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (first Sunday in November the 2nd Saturday in March)

Estevan Highway

8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (2nd Sunday in March to first Saturday in November)
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (remainder of the year)

Monchy

9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (2nd Sunday in March to May 31)
8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (June 1 to September 15)
9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (September 16 to first Saturday in November)
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (first Sunday in November to 2nd Saturday in March)

Northgate

8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (2nd Sunday in March to first Saturday in November)
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (remainder of the year)

Oungre

8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (2nd Sunday in March to first Saturday in November)
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (remainder of the year)

Regway

24/7

West Poplar River

9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (2nd Sunday in March to May 31)
8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (June 1 to September 15)
9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (September 16 to first Saturday in November)
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (first Sunday in November to 2nd Saturday in March)

Please refer to the CBSA Directory https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/do-rb/menu-eng.html for a complete list of land border crossings around Canada. You should also check the current border measurements and requirements.

Please note that IRCC offers a variety of services for foreign nationals who are already temporary residents; for example, holders of study or work permits who wish to extend their status or obtain a new permit must apply to IRCC.

For more information about and access to IRCC services, please visit IRCC or call 1-888-242-2100.

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Conclusion

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While applying for a visa may seem overwhelming, flagpoling is a convenient and effective option for many travelers. 

By exiting and re-entering Canada at a land border crossing, you can apply for your visa in person and potentially expedite processing. 

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If you are planning to apply for a visa in Canada, consider the flagpoling option, and if you have doubts about your case, you can schedule an appointment with our specialized legal team to guide you through the process by clicking here link.

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With love,

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Immiland

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