IRCC’s new temporary policy for PR applicants from Hong Kong will help them stay in Canada while they receive a final decision on their application. The temporary policy is an attempt to tackle the increased number of applications for the initial temporary public policy catering to the residents of Hong Kong. It came to the forefront in 2021. In 2021, IRCC developed two new gateways for Hong Kong residents who previously worked in Canada or studied there to obtain PR due to the geopolitical scenario between Hong Kong and China.
IRCC’s new temporary policy for PR applicants from Hong Kong – Understanding the new policy
Beginning on May 27, 2024, Hong Kong residents who have submitted PR applications in Canada under the 2021 special pathway of IRCC will be eligible for status extension. This implies that they will now have the chance to apply for an Open Work Permit to reside in Canada and work there while the processing of their application takes place.
In addition, this new policy will assist those who:
- Submitted applications under Stream A, implying graduates in Canada, and Stream B, implying work experience in Canada via 2021 policy;
- Possessed work or study permits in the last three years before their PR application submission.
Furthermore, this new policy will remain active for five years, enabling PR applicants to continue to remain in the country while their applications are being processed.
IRCC also observed that those with TR status in Canada, work or study permit holders, or guardians, must analyze and apply for their status renewal as required. Individuals holding work or study permits in Canada, who apply for document extension to ensure they are valid, will be able to maintain their legal status. This is despite their renewal application is still under processing. However, this is possible due to a legal standard called “maintained status.”
Additionally, IRCC warns those with lost status in Canada within a period of 90 days before submitting their OWP application via the new policy must apply for OWP or even restore their status simultaneously.
However, an individual without any status for over 80 days before application submission via the new policy will not have their application acknowledged.
Insight into this new policy for Hong Kong residents
Canada and Hong Kong residents have a shared history of maintaining diplomatic relations, which has existed since 1923. Hong Kong contributes significantly to Canada every year, being a major source of new immigrants. The 2021 data claims that more than 20,000 new immigrants with Hong Kong as their birthplace arrived in Canada.
On June 30th, 2020, China introduced a new law in Hong Kong that makes certain actions, like trying to break away from the country, overthrowing the government, committing acts of terror, or working with foreign powers, illegal. Responding to these alterations, Canada became anxious that people’s rights and freedoms in Hong Kong might be at risk and that the law could be enforced unfairly. So, Canada made it easier for people from Hong Kong to move there by introducing helpful measures. Canada’s support for Hong Kong residents is part of its Info-Pacific Strategy. Moreover, it shows its ongoing dedication to the people of Hong Kong.
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