OTTAWA -

In response to the looming threat of a 25 percent tariff from President-elect Donald Trump, Canada is implementing a series of immigration measures, the most notable being a ban on a practice commonly referred to as "flagpoling." But what exactly is flagpoling, and why is it causing such a stir?

Flagpoling occurs when individuals holding temporary visas in Canada make a brief trip to the United States and then quickly re-enter Canada in order to access immigration services at a port of entry. This practice became a popular workaround for many aspiring immigrants seeking work or study permits in Canada, but as of today, new restrictions have taken effect to curb it.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller has announced that henceforth, temporary visa holders wishing to extend their stay must do so through online applications rather than through flagpoling. This move is part of a broader strategy to clamp down on immigration fraud and enhance border controls amidst rising geopolitical tensions.

In the last fiscal year, the Canadian Border Services Agency reported processing over 69,300 flagpoling cases. While the ban is stringent, some exceptions remain. Specific groups, including international truck drivers holding work permits and certain professionals under free trade agreements, may still find pathways to secure study or work permits even if they technically fit the flagpoler criteria.

The government has allocated a substantial $1.3 billion package aimed at reinforcing border security, which also includes the controversial removal of the point value for having a job offer in Canada's express entry immigration system. This change, anticipated to be temporary, is part of a comprehensive review of the system, with an eye on addressing rampant immigration fraud.

In addition, there’s growing concern about the black market emergence where individuals charge exorbitant fees—up to tens of thousands of dollars—for essential documents like labor market impact assessments (LMIA's), which are pivotal for employers hiring foreign workers. As scrutiny increases, officials are making efforts to ensure that current applications remain unaffected by these impending changes.

During the December 17 press conference, Miller also hinted at plans to streamline Canada’s asylum system, targeting illegitimate claims and bolstering the overall efficacy of immigration procedures.

Together with enhanced aerial surveillance and stringent drug detection measures, Canada's new immigration policies mark a significant pivot, aiming to reinforce border integrity in a rapidly changing political landscape.

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For those keen on keeping tabs on these developments, signing up for news alerts is essential. Canada is entering a critical phase regarding its immigration policies, and changes could have far-reaching implications on the lives of many.

This is just the beginning—a lot more is expected as Canada navigates these turbulent waters in response to international pressures.