IRCC introduces a new temporary policy for Hong Kong applicants so that they can stay in Canada while awaiting a decision on the application.
The temporary policy is a response to a high volume of applications for the initial temporary public policy for Hong Kong residents, introduced in 2021. In that year, IRCC created two new paths for Hong Kong residents who have worked/ studied in Canada to obtain Canadian PR in response to the geopolitical situation between Hong Kong & China.
What Is The New Policy?
Beginning on May 27th, 2024, residents of Hong Kong who have applied for PR under IRCC’s special 2021 pathway will now be able to extend their status and apply for an Open Work Permit so they can stay in Canada and work while their application is being processed.
This new policy will specifically aid those who both:
- Applied under Stream A or Stream B of the 2021 policy
- Held a work/ study permit in the three years before their application for permanent residence was received
This new policy will be in place for five years, allowing PR applicants to remain in Canada during the processing of their applications.
IRCC notes that those with temporary status in Canada are responsible for monitoring and applying to renew their status as needed. Individuals on a work/ study permit in Canada who apply to extend the validity of their document before it expires continue to have legal status in Canada due to a legal standard called ‘maintained status.’
In addition, the department further warns that any individuals who have lost status in Canada within the 90 days before they apply for an open work permit under the new policy might apply for the OWP & restore their status at the same time. However, if an individual has been out of status for more than 90 days before submitting an application under this new policy, their application will not be considered.
Context On The Temporary Policy For Hong Kong Residents
IRCC introduces a new temporary policy for Hong Kong applicants so that they can stay in Canada.
Well, Canada & Hong Kong have shared diplomatic relations since 1923. In fact, Hong Kong is one of the largest sources of new immigrants to Canada every year. According to 2021 data, around 200,000 newcomers in Canada cited Hong Kong as their place of birth.
On June 30, 2020, China imposed a national security law in Hong Kong, criminalizing ‘secession, subversion, collusion, & terrorism with foreign forces while providing broad definitions for these crimes.
In response to these changes, Canada has implemented numerous facilitative measures to help Hong Kong residents come to Canada.
Canada’s continued commitment to the people of Hong Kong is outlined in the government’s Info-Pacific Strategy.