Canada has long been a top choice for international students, hosting over 1 million in 2023—a 29% increase from 2022. The country’s high-quality education system and favourable post-graduation work environment have made it a prime destination.

However, the recent decision to end ‘flagpoling’ where international students apply for post-graduation work permits (PGWPs) at border crossings, brings significant changes. This policy shift, aimed at streamlining immigration, poses new challenges for students and the Canadian labor market.

Flagpoling was a quick, convenient option for many international students. It allowed them to apply for a work permit by merely visiting a border crossing, often completing the process in a single day.

Now, with this option gone, students must go through the more traditional, and often slower, application process with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This shift could lead to delays in obtaining work permits, affecting students’ ability to start their jobs right after graduation.

The IRCC has reported that from March 2023 to February 2024, about one-fifth of PGWP applicants used flagpoling to expedite their permits. This method was especially favoured because it allowed face-to-face interactions with immigration officers, often resolving application issues on the spot.

However, this practice placed a significant strain on border resources, diverting officers from their primary duties of maintaining security and facilitating the movement of goods and travellers.

Canada’s Post-Study Work Permit Policies

When compared to Canada’s new approach, the policies of other major study destinations highlight notable differences. In the United States, the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows international students to work for up to three years in their field of study post-graduation.

The UK has reintroduced a two-year post-study work visa, and Australia offers a Temporary Graduate visa. These countries have streamlined their processes to retain international talent, recognizing the economic benefits these graduates bring. Canada’s new policy could be seen as a step backward in this context.

Historically, Canada has made significant strides in facilitating the stay and employment of international students post-graduation. The PGWP program, introduced to allow graduates to gain valuable Canadian work experience, was a landmark policy aimed at attracting global talent. Over the years, the program has evolved to accommodate the growing number of international students, with continuous improvements in application processes and timelines to enhance efficiency.

In recent years, the demand for PGWPs surged, reflecting the increasing number of international students choosing Canada for its educational and career opportunities. From March 2023 to February 2024, PGWP applicants accounted for about one-fifth of all flagpoling cases. This underscores the reliance on flagpoling as a quick solution, which the recent policy change seeks to address by improving in-country application processes and reducing wait times.

Flagpoling Ends – What international students should do now

Canada’s appeal has been bolstered by its relatively straightforward path to permanent residency. The PGWP program is a key part of this, allowing graduates to gain valuable Canadian work experience. In 2023, the number of international students in Canada surged, driven by the country’s accessible pathways to work and residency. The new policy could dampen this growth by introducing uncertainty and delays into the post-graduation phase.

For international students, the transition from education to employment is crucial. Delays in this process can lead to financial stress and missed job opportunities. The end of flagpoling means longer wait times for work permits, potentially disrupting plans to begin working right after graduation. This could make Canada less attractive as a study destination, affecting its competitiveness in the global education market.

International students must adapt by preparing well in advance for the post-graduation phase. Starting early in their educational journey, students can take proactive steps to ensure a seamless transition to the workforce, despite potential delays in obtaining work permits. Engaging in career counseling services, attending job fairs, and connecting with potential employers during their studies can provide significant advantages. Additionally, maintaining updated documentation and closely monitoring any policy updates from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) can prevent unforeseen complications.