Canada Extends Open Work Permit for Hong Kong Residents

Canada’s immigration minister announced this week that existing Open Work Permits for Hong Kong residents would be extended for an additional two years.

The existing Open Work Permits (OWP) for Hong Kong residents was due to expire this week on February 7th. However it was announced that for those who are eligible, permits will be extended for an additional two years. 

Hong Kong residents who are currently in Canada temporarily can apply online while in Canada. This includes visitors, students, and workers. Those applying from abroad remain subject to current travel restrictions at the time of travel. Currently Hong Kong residents travelling to Canada need to show proof of a negative Covid-19 test. 

Eligibility is similar to when the measure was first enacted in 2021. The most significant change is that applicants must have graduated with a Canadian post-secondary diploma or degree in the last 10 years, rather than the current requirement of 5 years. 

Who Qualifies for the Hong Kong Open Work Permit Extension?

This program is designed to attract highly educated applicants. As such, emphasis is placed on the applicants post secondary education. In addition to holding a valid passport issued by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) or the United Kingdom to a British National Overseas (BNO), to be eligible under this program, the applicant must have graduated within 10 years of applying, from one of the following programs:

• A degree from a designated post-secondary learning institution in Canada or abroad, or
• A diploma for a minimum 2 year program from a designated post-secondary learning institution in Canada or abroad or or hold an equivalent foreign credential for which they can get an Educational Credential Assessment.

Any degree or diploma awarded from an institute outside of Canada will need to be assessed to Canadian standards by a designed body.

Permanent Resident Pathways for Hong Kongers

Canada has permanent resident pathways dedicated to Hong Kong residents who have studied in Canada. There are two streams:

Stream A: Which offers permanent residence to Hong Kong residents that have graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution in the immediate 3 years preceding the date when the application is received.

Stream B: Which offers permanent residence to Hong Kong residents that have graduated from a post-secondary institution in Canada or abroad and have at least one year of work experience in Canada.

If you’re interested in beginning your Canadian immigration journey in 2023, get started today by filling out our free online assessment. We will then reach out to discuss the best option for you!