Canada relaxes rules for HK workers

Sophie Hui

Canada has extended the work permit program for Hongkongers for two more years to February 2025 and relaxed the application requirement for those who have completed their post-secondary education in the past 10 years.

The Canadian government established the three-year work permit scheme in February two years ago and on Monday extended the application deadline.

Hong Kong residents who have graduated in the past 10 years from a post-secondary learning institution in Canada or abroad can apply for the work permit to pursue their career in the country for up to three years. Previously, applicants had to have graduated within the past five years.

Spouses or common-law partners and dependent children can accompany the applicants to Canada, and apply to visit, work or study.

The work permit scheme only applies to Hong Kong residents who hold an HKSAR or British National (Overseas) passport.

"By extending and expanding Canada's open work permits for Hongkongers, we are giving Canadian employers more skilled workers to hire at a time when we need them most and providing valuable work experience, while also showing our support for the people of Hong Kong," said Sean Fraser, minister of immigration, refugees and citizenship.

By last month, Canada had granted permanent residence to 1,700 Hongkongers and nearly 33,000 work and study permits to others, official data showed. More than 70 percent of them are in their 20s.

Jean Yip, member of parliament for Scarborough-Agincourt in Toronto, said: "At a time when the world is facing many challenges, Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the rights and freedoms of individuals around the globe. The expansion of open work permits and the creation of pathways to permanent residency for Hong Kong residents are a testament to this commitment and will help bring even more skilled and talented individuals to our country."

Han Dong, MP for Don Valley North in Toronto, said: "As the demand for these visas continues to grow, the [relaxation] will ensure that Hong Kong residents who share Canada's values of freedom and democracy will continue to be able to seek opportunities to settle and succeed in Canada."

Ottawa opened two new paths to permanent residency for Hongkongers in June 2021, covering recent graduates and workers already in the country.

Eligible applicants must have temporary resident status and be in Canada when they apply.

They must also hold an HKSAR passport or a BNO passport.

sophie.hui@singtaonewscorp.com