Canada Makes It Easier for Hong Kongers to Obtain Permanent Residency
In a recent announcement, the Canadian government revealed that Hong Kongers with recent work experience in Canada will now have a simplified pathway to becoming permanent residents (PRs), without the need for proof of education.
“Our government acknowledges that true talent and valuable expertise go beyond formal education credentials,” stated Paul Chiang, parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, who made the announcement. “By removing the education requirement under the Work Experience Stream B for the Hong Kong permanent residence pathway, we are ensuring that qualifications do not pose a barrier to those with valuable experience and expertise.”
The removal of the education requirement, effective August 15, will expand the eligibility for permanent residence to more Hong Kong residents with Canadian work experience, regardless of their educational background.
This amendment is part of the Hong Kong permanent residency pathway introduced in June 2021, which will be valid until August 2026. The pathway consists of two streams: Stream A for graduates from Canadian educational institutions, and Stream B for individuals with work experience in Canada who meet specific educational requirements. Soon, proof of education will no longer be necessary.
According to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), as of April 30, 2023, 2,358 permanent residents have been welcomed through Stream A, and 764 through Stream B.
This decision comes as Canada faces a significant shortage of skilled workers. “Removing the education requirement under Stream B is a win-win situation: it means that we can welcome more Hong Kong residents to Canada who need our support, while also helping Canadian businesses fill labor gaps with individuals who already possess work experience here,” expressed Immigration Minister Sean Fraser in a statement.
In February 2021, the Canadian government introduced an open work permit program for Hong Kong residents, making it easier for them to work in Canada and apply for permanent residence. This program has since been expanded and extended.
This development coincides with the ongoing targeting of pro-democracy activists from Hong Kong by authorities under the national security law implemented in 2020.
The Hong Kong police have issued arrest warrants for eight individuals who are currently residing abroad in the United States, Britain, and Australia. Some of these individuals have connections to people in Canada, either professionally or through family ties.
Despite their overseas residency, these activists are still being targeted due to their opposition to the national security law, which grants Chinese authorities jurisdiction in Hong Kong and seeks to criminalize actions outside the city, treating criticism or dissent from abroad as a crime.
Canada has issued a statement denouncing the arrest warrants for these activists. “Canada is deeply concerned about the arrest warrants issued by Hong Kong authorities for eight democratic activists around the world,” stated the announcement from Global Affairs Canada. “We continue to urge Hong Kong and Chinese central authorities to respect and uphold the rights and freedoms guaranteed under the Basic Law of Hong Kong.”
— with files from Global News’ Eric Stober
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