Immigration minister Sean Fraser has just announced Canada is expanding its open work permit options for Hong Kong nationals.
Speaking from Toronto on 6th February 2023, the minister said the existing Open Work Permit (OWP) for Hong Kong residents, which was set to expire today, will be extended an additional two years.
Canada is extending the deadline to apply and expanding eligibility to Hong Kong residents who have graduated within the past 10 years from a post-secondary learning institution in Canada or abroad.
This means that more Hong Kongers can pursue their career goals and gain valuable work experience in Canada for up to 3 years.
Previously, applicants had to have graduated within the past 5 years.
In addition, the Government of Canada has established 2 pathways to permanent residence for eligible Hong Kong applicants and their families.
These measures will allow Canada to attract even more skilled individuals, including those who have already acquired work experience, which will help them quickly integrate into Canada’s workforce.
Permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents
This temporary public policy for Hong Kong residents who are currently in Canada provides a pathway to permanent residence for eligible applicants and their families.
There are 2 streams for which you may be eligible. Hong Kong residents can apply for permanent residence under one of the following:
- Stream A: In-Canada graduates
- Stream B: Canadian work experience
This public policy will be in effect from June 1, 2021, to August 31, 2026.
Quick facts
- The extended deadline for eligible Hong Kong residents to apply for an open work permit is February 7, 2025.
- Under the Hong Kong open work permit public policy, spouses or common-law partners and dependent children are also eligible to apply for a study or work permit.
- These measures apply to Hong Kong residents who hold a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region or British National (Overseas) passport.
- This measure aligns with Canada’s recently released Indo-Pacific Strategy. It is a comprehensive roadmap to deepen the engagement in the Indo-Pacific over the next decade, increasing our contributions to regional peace and security, strengthening economic growth and resilience, enhancing our significant people-to-people ties, and supporting sustainable development across the region.
- 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.
