Immigration Announcement
Canada Updates Permanent Residence Pathways for Hong Kong Residents
On June 10, 2024, the Government of Canada announced significant updates to the permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents. This update aims to streamline the application process and provide clearer guidelines for prospective applicants.
One of the key changes is that applicants will now receive an acknowledgment letter following a completeness check of their application. This step ensures that applicants are informed promptly about the status of their submissions, enhancing transparency and efficiency in the processing of applications.
In addition to this procedural update, the Government has revised the intake instructions for Stream B applicants. To qualify under this stream, applicants must now have at least one year of full-time authorized Canadian work experience, or the equivalent in part-time work, within the last three years. Specifically, this equates to up to 30 hours per week, totaling at least 1,560 hours. Notably, any hours worked beyond 30 in a week will not count towards the required work experience.
Maximize Your IELTS Score:
Start your English journey: Learn English with British Council teachers — Up to 10% off
English Online Self-Study course: Learn English at your own pace with bite-sized exercises — Up to 10% off
Prepare for IELTS with the experts: Get the score you need with the co-creator of the IELTS test- Up to 15% off
These changes reflect Canada’s ongoing commitment to supporting Hong Kong residents in their pursuit of permanent residence. By clarifying the work experience requirements and ensuring timely communication through acknowledgment letters, the Government aims to facilitate a smoother application process for eligible candidates.
The revised criteria for Stream B emphasize the importance of recent, authorized Canadian work experience. This approach not only underscores the value of professional experience gained in Canada but also aligns with the broader objectives of Canada’s immigration strategy to attract skilled individuals who can contribute to the economy.
Hong Kong residents interested in applying for permanent residence under these updated pathways should ensure they meet the new work experience criteria and stay informed about any further updates from the Government of Canada. These measures are designed to provide clearer guidelines and improve the overall experience for applicants seeking to make Canada their new home.
For detailed information and updates on the permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents, applicants can visit the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).