Canada is simplifying the process of granting residence to Hong Kong residents so they can work and live there. Canada continues to support Hong Kong residents by enhancing immigration pathways. Since 2021, Canada has welcomed Hong Kongers through specific immigration routes. On July 11, 2023, Paul Chiang, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, announced on behalf of Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, that the education requirement for the Canadian work experience stream (Stream B) of the Hong Kong permanent residence pathways will be removed from August 15, 2023. This means more Hong Kongers with Canadian work experience can apply for permanent residence, regardless of their education level.
This change simplifies the application process as proof of education will no longer be needed. This amendment complements the recent extension and expansion of open work permits for Hong Kong residents, further aiding their transition from temporary to permanent residence. Canada aims to attract individuals with Canadian work experience, opening opportunities for skilled Hong Kongers to contribute their unique skills and experiences to Canada’s diverse workforce.
- Support for Hong Kong Residents: Canada has been supporting Hong Kong residents by improving immigration pathways. Since 2021, the country has been welcoming Hong Kongers through dedicated immigration routes, demonstrating its commitment to their freedom and democracy.
- Removal of Education Requirement: On July 11, 2023, an announcement was made that the education requirement under the Canadian work experience stream (Stream B) of the Hong Kong permanent residence pathways will be removed effective August 15, 2023. This significant change means that more Hong Kongers with Canadian work experience will be eligible for permanent residence, regardless of their education status.
- Simplified Application Process: With the removal of the education requirement, the application process becomes simpler. Applicants will no longer need to submit proof of education, making the process more straightforward and less cumbersome.
- Complementing Open Work Permits: This amendment complements the recent extension and expansion of open work permits for Hong Kong residents. It further assists the transition from temporary to permanent residence for Hong Kong residents, making it easier for them to settle in Canada.
- Attracting Skilled Individuals: By removing the education requirement and expanding open work permits, Canada hopes to attract individuals who have already gained Canadian work experience. This opens doors of opportunity for skilled individuals from Hong Kong to contribute their unique skills and experiences to Canada’s diverse workforce.
- Statistics: As of April 30, 2023, Canada has welcomed 3,122 permanent residents under the permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents (2,358 for Stream A and 764 for Stream B).
- Alignment with Indo-Pacific Strategy: This measure aligns with Canada’s recently released Indo-Pacific Strategy. It is a comprehensive roadmap to deepen engagement in the Indo-Pacific over the next decade, increasing contributions to regional peace and security, strengthening economic growth and resilience, enhancing significant people-to-people ties, and supporting sustainable development across the region.
- Existing Resettlement Programs: Hong Kong residents at risk of persecution who have fled to another country may also be eligible under Canada’s existing resettlement programs, including the Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program and the Government-Assisted Refugees Program.
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