Canada Limits Flagpoling at Ports of Entry

Hello World! Today, we would like to share an update on immigration services at Canadian ports of entry.

After May 30, 2024, flagpole services at the borders are only available for limited service hours. Please be aware of this if you are planning to renew your visa or change your status at the border.

What is Flagpoling?

Flagpoling means leaving Canada by land and immediately re-entering within 24 hours to receive same-day immigration services at the border.

Compared to applying to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in Canada, processing at the border can significantly save time on application.

Flagpole Service Hours After May 30, 2024

Flagpole services are available only during specific times at the following ports of entry.

British Columbia 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

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

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

For more information on this news, please check the following government website.

https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/settle-setablir-eng.html

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As noted above, flagpole service hours at the border are now limited. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), which provides immigration services at the border, strongly recommends using the IRCC’s online service to avoid waiting in lines.

If you wish to receive immigration services at the border, we recommend you arrive earlier to complete the application process. Some border offices may request you to come back later to have an appointment date/time. Please be mindful of some risks and consequences when you do flagpoling going forward.

If you need our advice or assistance with your Canadian visa or immigration matters, please feel free to contact us here.

“You are one step closer to Canada!”

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