Canada Adding New Immigration Pathways To Invite More Hong Kong Residents

On February 8, 2021, Immigration minister Mendicino, announced a new work permit to Hong Kong residents. This work permit will help Hong Kong residents to work freely in Canada for 3 years. These 3 years will help them gain valuable work experience and will also increase their likelihood to receive permanent status with no ifs and buts. 

 Eligibility for Work Permit:

• The candidate must have a valid passport issued by Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) or by the United Kingdom to British National Overseas (BNO).
• This work permit is valid till 3 years from the approval date or the till your passport is valid, whichever comes first. 
• Should be graduated with a degree or minimum 2year diploma in post-secondary learning institution in Canada or abroad in last five years. 

How to apply if you are inside Canada 

Those who are already in Canada must have the student, working, or visitor status should be eligible to store and apply for the extended status before it expired. You can apply and upload your necessary documents online.

How to apply if you are outside Canada

If you are not in Canada, then you cannot enter Canada due to travel restrictions even though if have an approved open work permit. But they can apply online. To apply online you need to have a valid job offer, letter of open work permit and must follow the 14-day quarantine rule after you land in Canada.

The documents needed whether you apply from inside and outside Canada are: 

• Letter of fee exemption (if you are inside Canada)
• Educational credential and proof of enrolment at a post-secondary educational institution.
• Passport (HKSAR and BNO).
• Family information form (IMM5707)
• Digital photo
• Copy of work history 
• Marriage certificate (if married)

Canada is introducing new immigration pathways to welcome Hong Kong students who are degree holders in a post-secondary institution in Canada. Apart from this, Canada announced several steps to accelerate the application process to grant permanent status to more Hong Kong residents. To extend the stay of the Hong Kong resident in Canada, Federal Government has planned to renounce the processing fee.