Canada’s immigration authorities have introduced key changes to flagpoling policies, which could significantly impact international students and foreign workers re-entering the country. According to the latest update, those holding a valid work or study permit may not necessarily be authorized to stay in Canada until the expiry date of their permit.
Shorter Stay Upon Re-Entry Without a Passport Stamp
The new policy indicates that unless Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers stamp an individual’s passport and explicitly write the expiry date of their existing permit under the stamp, the person will only be authorized to stay in Canada for six months from their last entry. This means that even if a foreign worker or student holds a valid permit with a later expiry date, their authorized stay may be shortened unless their passport is properly stamped and annotated upon re-entry.
Contradiction with Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR)
This change appears to contradict the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR), which state that the six-month rule applies only to individuals who do not hold a valid work or study permit. Under IRPR, those with valid permits should be allowed to remain in Canada until the expiry date of their document. However, the new flagpoling policy suggests a different approach, potentially leading to confusion and complications for permit holders who frequently travel.
Implications for Foreign Workers and International Students
For those on study or work permits, this policy shift highlights the importance of ensuring their passport is properly stamped upon re-entry to Canada. If the CBSA does not clearly indicate the expiry date of their permit under the stamp, they may face an unexpected reduction in their authorized stay period. This could lead to legal uncertainties or disruptions for individuals who assume their permit alone guarantees their authorized stay duration.
What This Means for Permit Holders
While IRCC has not clarified the reasoning behind this change, foreign workers and international students should remain vigilant when re-entering Canada. Ensuring that their passport is stamped correctly and explicitly marked with the expiry date of their permit may help avoid potential issues with their authorized stay.
Stay Informed with The Canada Time
As immigration policies continue to evolve, staying updated on the latest changes is crucial for anyone in Canada on a work or study permit. Follow The Canada Time for accurate, timely, and expert coverage of Canadian immigration news.
