Canadian visa holders adopt a flagpoling strategy to avoid delays in processing times. When foreigners with temporary residency in Canada transgress the border, enter the US, and then return to Canada immediately to obtain same-day immigration services, it is known as flagpoling.
Flagpoling is a completely legitimate activity. Most often, land border crossings in the Niagara region of Ontario are used for this process. Although it can be done at any entrance point.
When visa applications are flagpolled, there is no long processing time. It may vary depending on the visa type and the location where they are submitted. Unlike flagpoling, which is handled immediately, flagpoling allows you to learn your application’s outcome immediately.
Furthermore, you provide the necessary papers to the person standing in front of you when you raise the flag. In order to correct the problem, the immigration officer can let you know whether there is a problem with the application. If you use the standard application process, you may experience a delay in processing your application if you make a mistake or error.
In 2022, 21,452 people were flagpoled, according to the CBSA – (Canada Border Services Agency). IRCC advises applicants to apply online through their website. And refrain from flagpoling since immigration applications are not their primary purpose. The CBSA has established specific dates and hours at some border crossings to accommodate persons wanting to flagpole because it has grown so commonplace.
Service standards and backlog at IRCC
Application processing time frames are outlined in IRCC service standards. It is important to note, however, that the service standard differs from how long it actually takes the IRCC to process applications. In terms of backlog, applications that are not handled within the standard time frame of service are considered to be backlogged.
It is IRCC’s goal to handle 80% of all applications across all business lines. And across all types of applications within a reasonable amount of time, depending on the type of application. It takes twelve months for spousal and family sponsorship applications to be processed. As opposed to six months for Express Entry applications.
As of March 31st, IRCC data showed that 2 million applications were still pending across all categories. It includes immigration, employment, study, and sponsorship. Almost 900,000 of those 2 million applications are backlogged, with 1.1 million meeting service standards.
More than half of those who apply for services such as temporary or permanent residence meet the service requirements. Compared to other requests for citizenship, 75% are fulfilled within the expected timeframe.
A goal has been set to process 80% of applications in accordance with service standards by the end of the year, according to the IRCC. According to a CBC article on flag poling, the IRCC is trying to reduce the backlog. It will be done by digitizing applications, hiring and training new staff, and deploying automation technology.
