For Indian Students Already in Canada
Main Impact:
Indian students who are already in Canada on a study permit and wish to renew their permits or apply for a post-graduate work permit will no longer be able to visit the border to process their applications (a practice called flagpoling).- Instead, they must submit their applications through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) online or by mail.
Why This Matters:
- Longer Wait Times: Flagpoling often provided a quick way to finalize applications. Without it, students may face longer processing times through IRCC.
- Plan Ahead: Students must ensure they apply for renewals or new permits well before their current ones expire to avoid legal issues.
Exceptions:
Some groups, like truck drivers or professionals under certain trade agreements, are exempt. However, most international students won't qualify for these exemptions.
For New Indian Students Coming to Canada
Little to No Direct Impact:
New students arriving from India with valid study permits approved before their travel will not be affected. Their initial entry and immigration processing will happen as usual at the airport or port of entry.What Changes for Newcomers:
- If they later need to renew their study permits or apply for work permits after arriving in Canada, they cannot flagpole and must go through IRCC instead.
Other Considerations for Indian Students
Cost and Convenience:
- Many Indian students previously relied on flagpoling for its speed and clarity. The new rule removes this option, making it more important to follow IRCC procedures carefully.
- Ensure all paperwork is accurate to avoid delays when using IRCC channels.
Fairness in Processing:
The government’s goal is to make permit processing more streamlined and fair for all applicants. However, students should be prepared for potential delays in getting approvals.Advantage for Prepared Students:
Those who apply early and comply with IRCC guidelines are unlikely to face significant issues. The change primarily eliminates the quicker alternative of border processing, not the ability to apply for permits themselves.
