Canada has recently announced significant updates to its immigration policies, aimed at providing increased support for Hong Kong residents seeking permanent residency.
The changes remove the education requirement for Stream B of the Hong Kong permanent residence pathways, making it easier for individuals with work experience in Canada to apply.
This move aligns with Canada’s commitment to diversity and the Indo-Pacific Strategy. Let’s explore the key highlights of these updates.
Jump to:
Expanded Pathways to Permanent Residency
Stream A: In-Canada Graduates
- People from Hong Kong who finished their studies at a Canadian college or university in the last 3 years can apply.
- They need to show proof they studied in Canada.
- No changes have been made to this stream.
Read More: Study in Canada: Your Ultimate Guide as an International Student
Stream B: Work Experience in Canada
- People from Hong Kong who have worked in Canada can now apply for permanent residency.
- The educational requirement will be removed from Stream B, effective August 15, 2023.
- Candidates must have at least one year of work experience in Canada.
- This change simplifies the application process, as proof of Canadian or foreign educational credentials is no longer necessary.
Benefits for Hong Kong Residents
Easier to Apply:
The changes make it easier for Hong Kong people to apply. They don’t need to show any education papers. This will help them apply faster and smoother.
Increased Work Opportunities:
Hong Kong residents with valuable work experience in Canada can now apply for permanent residency.
The expanded Stream B fills labor gaps in the Canadian job market. It opens doors for skilled individuals from Hong Kong to join Canada’s diverse workforce.
Immigration Numbers:
As of April 30, 2023, a total of 3,122 permanent residents from Hong Kong have moved to Canada through the two permanent residence streams (Stream A: 2,358, Stream B: 764).
Hong Kong is one of the top Asian source countries for Canadian immigrants.
Extended Open Work Permits:
Canada has extended open work permit options for Hong Kong residents. Eligible individuals can gain valuable work experience in Canada.
The work permits also allow Hong Kong residents to apply for permanent residency.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada
Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy
The changes in immigration policies for Hong Kong residents align with Canada’s new Indo-Pacific Strategy.
The strategy outlines Canada’s plan to increase engagement in the Indo-Pacific region over the next 10 years. Bringing skilled workers from Hong Kong to Canada helps with this plan.
Conclusion:
Canada’s new immigration rules show its support for Hong Kong people. It’s now easier for them to apply for permanent residence in Canada, especially if they have work experience in Canada.
This helps Canada get more skilled workers. It also shows Canada’s plan to have a stronger relationship with countries in the Indo-Pacific area.
Stay tuned to +1 News for more Canada immigration updates.
Latest Articles:
