Whether seeking possibilities to study abroad, immigrate, or work, Hong Kong residents have long preferred to relocate to Canada. This trend is still going strong today! The Canadian government recently relaxed its application requirements for Hong Kong residents. The Canadian government has started two major schemes:  one for skilled workers and one for students. FreightAmigo will give an overview of the most recent Hong Kong resident immigration regulations in Canada.

New Canada Immigration Policies 

1. Hong Kong residents and their families who have obtained a Canadian degree or diploma in the past 5 years, or hold an equivalent overseas certificate, can apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP) for up to 3 years.
2. Eligible family members of Hong Kong residents, including those with British National (Overseas) passports, can also apply for work and study permits.
3. Hong Kong residents currently living in Canada who meet the minimum education and language requirements and have at least 1 year of Canadian work experience can apply for permanent residency.
4. Student visas for Hong Kong residents applying locally will be expedited, and there will be a clear pathway to permanent residency upon graduation.
5. Permanent residency applications for relatives of Canadian citizens residing in Hong Kong will be expedited.
6. Hong Kong residents residing in Canada are temporarily exempt from visa extension fees.

Canadian Immigration (1): Investment Immigration 

There are different types of Canadian immigration programs, such as Quebec, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Federal, and British Columbia.

Requirements for Quebec Canadian Immigration

• Possess CAD 2 million (approximately HKD 12.3 million) in assets (including cash income, stocks, and properties)
• Have at least 2 years of business management experience in the past 5 years
• Invest CAD 1.2 million (approximately HKD 7.4 million) in a designated immigrant fund for 5 years, after which the Canadian government will return the principal.

Canadian Immigration (2): Express Entry

The Canadian department uses a comprehensive ranking system (CRS) to assess and screen Canadian immigration applicants and invites those with higher scores to apply for an express entry. The higher the score of the applicant, the greater the chance of being invited.

Comprehensive Ranking System (CSR)

Canadian Immigration (3): Startup Immigration

According to the Canadian government website, the Canadian Immigration Start-up Visa program is designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs to Canada, creating employment opportunities and contributing to the economy. Applicants need to be competitive in the global market and have the potential to meet the application requirements if they receive support from designated organizations to realize their entrepreneurial plans.

 Start-up Visa Application Requirements

• Business supported by designated investment organizations
• English or French language proficiency at CLB 5 level

For more information, please view Immigrate to Canada.