New IRCC Temporary Policy for Hong Kong PR Applicants in Canada

Key Takeaways:

• Hong Kong residents with PR applications can extend their stay and secure work permits in Canada from May 27th, 2024.
• Eligibility requires application under 2021 PR policy via Streams A or B, and a valid work/study permit prior to PR application.
• This temporary policy, set for five years, offers Hong Kong diaspora support against China’s national security law, bolstering Canada’s Infra-Pacific Strategy.

What is the New Temporary Policy for Hong Kong PR Applicants in Canada?

In 2021, amid rising geopolitical tensions between China and Hong Kong, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) initiated a unique pathway to assist Hong Kong residents in obtaining permanent residency in Canada. Recognizing the need to support these applicants further, IRCC has now introduced a new temporary policy. Starting on May 27th, 2024, this policy allows Hong Kong residents who have applied for permanent residence (PR) through the 2021 avenues to extend their stay in Canada. This extension is crucial as it also enables them to secure an open work permit, ensuring they can continue working while their PR applications are processed.

Who Qualifies for the New IRCC Temporary Policy?

To be eligible for this new initiative, applicants must have:
– Successfully applied under either Stream A (in-Canada graduates) or Stream B (Canadian work experience) of the specific 2021 Hong Kong PR policy.
– Held a valid work or study permit within the three years prior to their PR application submission.

This policy is not just a short-term fix but is set to be in place for five years, providing substantial breathing room for applicants waiting for their PR status to be resolved.

Maintained Status: What Does It Mean for Applicants?

It’s important for current permit holders to understand the concept of “maintained status.” As per IRCC, individuals who apply to extend their work or study permits before their current ones expire are allowed to legally stay in Canada under the same conditions as their original permit while their application is processed. This means no unnecessary disruptions in their ability to work or study.

Can You Restore Your Status Under the New Policy?

IRCC has provisions for those who might find themselves out of status. Applicants who lose their status can still apply for an open work permit and simultaneously seek to restore their status, provided this is done within 90 days of their status lapsing. Unfortunately, if the period extends beyond 90 days, the options under this new policy will not be available.

How Significant Is The Hong Kong Diaspora In Canada?

Hong Kong has been a significant contributor to Canada’s cultural and demographic fabric. Data from 2021 shows that over 200,000 people residing in Canada were born in Hong Kong, highlighting the deep-rooted connections between the two regions. These strong ties were a driving force behind Canada’s proactive measures to support Hong Kong residents in the wake of China’s national security law imposed on June 30th, 2020. This law, which targets acts of “secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces,” has been widely criticized for its broad definitions that could potentially lead to discriminatory or arbitrary enforcement.

What are Canada’s Broader Commitments to Hong Kong Residents?

The introduction of the temporary policy for Hong Kong residents aligns with Canada’s broader Infra-Pacific Strategy. This approach underscores Canada’s support for Hong Kong residents, reinforcing the country’s commitment to uphold rights and freedoms globally. By implementing policies like these, Canada is not only offering a safe harbor but also actively participating in a larger geopolitical discourse.

For more detailed processes and eligibility criteria, you can visit the official IRCC page for temporary public policies.

Final Thoughts

This policy represents a lifeline for many Hong Kong residents who cherish the stability and opportunities that Canada offers. By extending a warm welcome and providing tangible support during their transition, Canada continues to champion the values of freedom and democracy on the global stage. Whether you are a current applicant or planning to apply, staying informed and prepared will ensure that you can fully leverage the benefits of this new policy.

Learn Today:

1. Permanent Residency (PR):
Permanent residency refers to an immigration status that allows an individual to live, work, and study in a country indefinitely. It is a crucial step towards obtaining citizenship in many countries, offering various benefits such as access to social services and healthcare.

2. Open Work Permit:
An open work permit is a type of work permit that allows the holder to work for any employer in a country without the need for a specific job offer. This flexibility can be beneficial for individuals awaiting the processing of their permanent residency applications, enabling them to continue working during the waiting period.

3. Maintained Status:
Maintained status refers to the legal authorization granted to individuals in Canada who have applied to extend their work or study permits before their current permits expire. During this period, individuals can stay in the country under the same conditions as their original permits, ensuring continuity in their ability to work or study.

4. Out of Status:
Being “out of status” occurs when an individual’s legal authorization to stay in a country, such as a work or study permit, has expired, and they have not taken steps to renew or restore their status. It is crucial for individuals to address this situation promptly to avoid potential consequences, such as being unable to work or study legally.

5. Hong Kong Diaspora:
The term “diaspora” refers to a scattered population with a common origin or heritage who are living outside their ancestral homeland. The Hong Kong diaspora in Canada encompasses individuals who have roots or connections to Hong Kong and have chosen to live in Canada. This community plays a significant role in enriching Canada’s cultural diversity and contributes to the social and economic landscape of the country.

This Article In A Nutshell:

Amidst global tensions, Canada introduced a new temporary policy to aid Hong Kong residents seeking permanent residency. Effective May 27th, 2024, it offers an extended stay and open work permit to applicants awaiting PR status. The policy aims to support the diaspora and uphold rights, aligning with Canada’s broader international commitments.
— By VisaVerge.com

Read More:

1. Increased Conversion of H-1B Visas to Canadian Work Permits – Discover how Canada is processing more visas than initially expected for H-1B holders in the U.S.

2. 2024 Study Permit Allocations by Province in Canada – Learn about the distribution of study permits across Canadian provinces for the upcoming year.

3. New Prediction Method for IRCC Processing Times – Get insights into the latest forecasting techniques for immigration processing times in Canada.

4. Eligibility Expansion for Spousal Work Permits in Canada – Essential updates on new eligibility criteria for spousal work permits for spouses of international students.

5. New Immigration Initiatives for Rural and Francophone Minorities – Explore the latest programs aimed at supporting rural and Francophone communities through immigration.