Canada Ends Permanent Residency Pathway for Hong Kong

Canada has announced the suspension of its special permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong nationals, with new applications ceasing on August 31, 2026. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) confirmed this closure on August 28, aligning with previously communicated timelines.

The program, initiated in 2021, was designed to provide eligible Hong Kong nationals in Canada with additional routes to permanent residency based on their recent Canadian or work experience. By June 30, 2026, the IRCC had received approximately 30,315 applications, representing around 48,560 individuals, with over 8,600 applications approved, resulting in about 13,370 individuals obtaining permanent residence status.

The IRCC will continue processing applications submitted before the August 31 deadline. Additionally, Hong Kong nationals with pending applications will have access to open work permits under a separate public policy effective from May 27, 2024, allowing them to live and work in Canada until May 2029.