Hong Kong: Your Pathway to Canada

Canada welcomes individuals from all corners of the world, and Hong Kong residents are no exception. There are several programs and pathways through which Hong Kong residents can come to Canada, either temporarily or permanently.

Special Measures for Hong Kong Residents

Canada has implemented special immigration measures to support Hong Kong residents. One of these is the open work permit for Hong Kong recent graduates, valid for up to 3 years. Applicants need to have graduated with a degree from a post-secondary institution in the past 5 years. It’s a unique opportunity to gain valuable work experience in Canada which could then be leveraged to apply for permanent residence through various pathways like Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs.

Study Permit:

Canada is home to some of the world’s top universities and colleges. Hong Kong students can apply for a study permit to pursue higher education in Canada. After graduation, they may be eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit, which can also lead to pathways for permanent residency.

Work Permit:

The public policy on the Hong Kong open work permit has been extended until February 7, 2025. This policy is applicable to foreign nationals holding either an HKSAR or BNO passport and waives certain requirements, allowing them to apply for a work permit while residing in Canada or overseas. However, this policy doesn’t permit applications at a port of entry. It also provides exemptions for Hong Kong residents who are in Canada as visitors, allowing them to apply inland for an open work permit under this policy. It further excludes certain prohibitions from being a barrier to obtaining a work permit.

International Experience Canada:

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program provides young individuals from Hong Kong the opportunity to travel and work in Canada. Eligible candidates are offered an open work permit, valid for up to 12 months.

The program is open to citizens of Hong Kong who are between 18 and 35 years of age, and it provides an excellent opportunity to gain professional work experience, improve language skills, and immerse oneself in Canadian culture.

Please note that the number of places is limited and the process is competitive. The application involves several steps, such as creating an IEC profile, receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), and then applying for a work permit.

Remember that health insurance for the duration of your stay is mandatory, and you must have a valid passport and sufficient funds to cover your initial expenses in Canada.

Express Entry:

Express Entry is a system used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage and process applications received through Canada’s federal economic immigration programs. Applicants from Hong Kong can create an online profile and may be invited to apply for permanent residence based on their skills, work experience, language ability, and other factors.

Family Sponsorship:

If you have close relatives living in Canada as citizens or permanent residents, they may sponsor your immigration under the Family Class. This includes spouses or common-law partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents.

Priority is given to temporary residence applications from immediate and extended family members of Canadian citizens, individuals registered under the Indian Act, Canadian permanent residents, and protected persons in Canada who have applied for permanent residence. This applies to those holding a valid HKSAR or BNO passport and residing outside of Canada.

Remember, each program has its unique requirements and processes. At Pathway2Canada, our dedicated and multicultural team is ready to guide you through these steps, providing you with a tailored strategy for your journey to Canada.