As of May 30, 2024, changes have been implemented regarding flagpoling services at Canadian ports of entry. This alteration has implications for individuals seeking immigration services, prompting a closer examination of the options available for streamlining the process.
Flagpoling, a practice adopted by some temporary residents of Canada, involves leaving the country and re-entering within 24 hours to obtain immigration services. While it may seem like a straightforward solution, recent developments highlight potential challenges associated with this approach.
“I still see no legal basis for the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) restricting their hours for flagpoling but this has gone unchallenged and clients should be aware” Ravi of Jain Immigration Law says.
The announcement specifies that as of May 30, 2024, flagpoling services will only be available at designated ports of entry during specified times. This adjustment claims to manage traffic and streamline operations at these locations.
As of May 30, 2024, the following ports of entry will offer flagpoling services at specified times:
- *New* Southern Ontario Region
- Fort Erie (Peace Bridge): Tuesday to Thursday, from 8 am to midnight
- Niagara Falls Rainbow Bridge: Tuesday to Thursday, from 8 am to midnight
- Queenston-Lewiston Bridge: Tuesday to Thursday, from 8 am to midnight
- Pacific Region
- Abbotsford-Huntingdon: Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm
- Aldergrove: Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm
- Boundary Bay: Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 2 pm
- Douglas: Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm
- Pacific Highway: Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm
- Quebec Region
- Armstrong: Monday to Thursday, from 12 pm to 7 pm
- Saint Armand/Philipsburg: Monday to Thursday, from 9 am to 3 pm
- Saint Bernard-de-Lacolle: Monday to Thursday, from 12 pm to 7 pm
- Stanstead Route 55: Monday to Thursday, from 8 am to 5 pm