Hong Kong Residents Permanent Residence Pathway

You must submit your application for permanent residence online through the Permanent Residence Online Portal. This pathway is a special public policy for Hong Kong residents currently in Canada as students or workers. You must be physically present in Canada when you apply and when your permanent residence is granted.

Step 1: Choose Your Stream

You can only apply under one of the two following streams. Ensure you meet the specific requirements for your chosen path before starting.

• Stream A (In-Canada Graduates): You must have graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (a school approved by the government to host international students) in Canada within the 3 years before you apply. At least 50% of your program must have been completed while you were physically in Canada.
• Stream B (Canadian Work Experience): You must have at least 12 months of full-time work experience (or the equivalent in part-time hours) in Canada within the 3 years before you apply. You must prove a minimum of 1,560 paid hours and show you held a valid work permit during that time.

Step 2: Take Your Language Test

You must achieve a minimum score of CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French) in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Your test results must be less than two years old on the date you submit your application. Approved agencies include IELTS or CELPIP for English, and TEF or TCF for French.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary digital copies, ensuring any document not in English or French includes a certified translation and an affidavit from the translator.

• Identity: A valid HKSAR or BN(O) passport. If using a BN(O) passport, you must provide proof you were born, naturalized, or registered in Hong Kong.
• Status: Proof of your current valid temporary resident status in Canada (e.g., your study or work permit).
• Education/Work Proof: For Stream A, provide final transcripts and your degree/diploma. For Stream B, provide letters of reference, pay stubs, and T4 tax slips.
• Police Certificates: You need these for every country where you have lived for 6 months or more since turning 18.

Step 4: Submit Online

Create an account on the PR Online Portal, fill out the digital forms, and upload your supporting documents. You must also upload a copy of your fee payment receipt. Ensure you submit everything before the policy expires on August 31, 2026.

Step 5: Biometrics and Medicals

After you submit, IRCC will send you a letter instructions on how to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) at a designated service point. You may also be asked to undergo a medical exam if you haven't had one recently.

Step 6: Finalization

If approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). You must be physically present in Canada to receive this and officially become a permanent resident.

Total Estimate: Approximately $1,295 CAD for a single applicant including biometrics. Does not include: Language testing fees (~$300), medical exam costs, police certificate fees, or document translation costs.

• Standard Processing: Approximately 17 months for most applications.
• Language Test Validity: Results must be less than 2 years old at the time of application.
• Policy Deadline: This pathway is currently scheduled to close on August 31, 2026.
• Work Experience Window: For Stream B, your 1,560 hours must have been completed within the 3 years immediately preceding your application date.