Temporary residents in Canada must refer to new guidelines regarding immigration applications at the border crossing. These changes are designed to improve efficiency and reduce line-ups at the border. Here is everything you need to know to comply with these new requirements.
Updating Immigration Procedures: Using Online Services
Do you need to obtain a new work or study permit? Renew your current permit? Extend your temporary resident status or confirm your permanent residence? You can now plan and use immigration services online. Border services are designed for new arrivals to Canada, not for those already in the country. If you choose to go to the borders, you may encounter long lines, and your application may not be handled immediately.
The advantage of applying online is that if you request, for example, the renewal of your work or study permit before it expires, you could receive the new permit by mail before the old one expires. Even if your current permit expires while you are waiting for your new permit to be processed, you can continue to work or study under maintained status.
To submit your biometric information, you must make an appointment via the e-Service Canada appointment booking tool or find a biometric data collection location near to you.
It should be noted that foreign nationals can no longer apply for a post-graduation work permit at the border, as mentioned in our article. Applications can only be submitted online.
These changes aim to improve the efficiency of the immigration process and reduce wait times at the borders, making the procedures simpler and faster for all applicants.
Places and Times to Obtain Immigration Services at the Border
Some temporary residents of Canada leave the country and return within 24 hours to receive these services. This is called “Flagpoling”. If you are already in Canada, you should use IRCC’s online immigration services.
If you decide to go to a port of entry for immigration services, you must schedule an appointment in advance at four land ports of entry in Quebec: Lacolle, St-Armand, Stanstead and Armstrong.
The following sites have specific hours and applications will only be processed during these hours:
Quebec Region: By Appointment Only
Phone: 514-240-5679
Appointment scheduling hours: 9 am to 3 pm, Tuesday to Friday
Appointment hours:
Du lundi au jeudi, de midi à 19h
Du lundi au jeudi, de 9h à 15h
Du lundi au jeudi, de 12h à 19h
Monday to Thursday, 8am to 5pm
