As Prince was crossing the Blackpool border in Quebec City, Quebec,

Prince said, "I was very stressed and nervous while crossing the border."

Prince’s work permit was about to expire in two days after graduating from his post-secondary program in April 2022. He needed his PGWP as soon as possible because he had secured a job and needed to provide his physical work permit to his employer.

Prince realized he wasn’t going to get his work permit approved quickly if he applies online as IRCC had too many backlogs

“I had no other choice than to go with flagpoling” Prince said.

What is Flagpoling?

Flagpoling is the term used when a foreign immigrant already in Canada leaves and re-enters within 24 hours, to receive immigration services such as obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), renewing a PGWP, or completing the permanent residency process.

Flagpoling is completely legal process to get your application process done on the spot and it is familiar practice to most of immigration lawyers and consultants.

Why Flagpoling?

Flagpoling is a faster way to get your Permits approved than through online processing time.

Experience At Border

He then drove to Blackpool border in city of Quebec and crossed the Canadian border in a car with one of his friends

Immediately after entering U.S side of border he was questioned at Immigration Window for reason of entry.

“what’s your reason for entry” officer said.

“I am here to flagpole to get my PGWP” Prince said.

Upon informing them of your flagpoling intentions, they will refuse entry to the U.S. and issue a denial letter. A U.S. visa is not required for flagpoling. After handing you your denial letter, you will be directed to The United States Border Patrol (USBP) for additional interviewing, during which they will capture your photo and fingerprints.

"Why do you need your PGWP early?" the officer inquired.

"I've secured a full-time job in Canada, and my study permit is expiring in just 2 days. My employer is requesting the work permit, and if I can't provide it soon, I risk losing my job," Prince answered.

After further questioning at the US border, once they are satisfied, they will instruct you to turn back towards the Canadian border.

"They were quite strict, but I knew what flagpoling is, so process went so smooth" Prince remarked.

Upon heading back towards the Canadian point of entry, you'll encounter the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), where they'll ask you a few intimidating questions.

"Why were you refused entry to the US?" the Canadian officer queried.

Presenting the denial letter, Prince stated, "I am here to conduct flagpoling to obtain my PGWP."

They will verify your current status in Canada. It's crucial not to proceed with flagpoling if you lack a valid visa to re-enter Canada. Attempting to do so without a valid visa could leave you stranded between two borders, ultimately resulting in deportation to your country of residency.

Following the status check, they will direct you to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) office, where you'll undergo a similar interview as before. During this process, you'll be required to provide evidence that you have completed your studies at a Canadian college.

Documents required

• College completion letter.
• College transcripts.
• Status in Canada (study or work permit)
• Few proofs from college such as College assignment, college student login etc.
• Valid Passport
• Other Canada related documents

Guy who accompanies you will have to also provide a valid documents to re-enter Canada

Prince said "Canadian border agency may inquire why you're seeking your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) early since it can be applied for online. Therefore, it's advisable to provide the same explanation given to the United States Border Patrol (USBP). Once your interview with the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) is concluded, and they've verified all your documents, they'll issue your PGWP on the spot if satisfied. Following PGWP approval, you'll be required to pay approximately $255 for the application."

Note: Please ensure to review Google ratings for all border crossings that offer flag poling, as some may not provide this service. Additionally, reach out to these border crossings via phone to inquire about their flag poling availability, operating hours for this service, and any expected wait times.

Note: Experience at border may vary depending on situation so please be prepared with your valid reason.

Location and Hours for obtaining Services

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

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