Eligibility Quiz
Do you hold a valid HKSAR or BN(O) passport (born/naturalized/registered in HK)?
Overview
The Hong Kong Residents Permanent Residence Pathway is a dedicated immigration route for Hong Kong residents currently living in Canada as workers or students. Established as a special public policy, it allows eligible individuals to transition directly to Permanent Residence (PR) without the points-based competition found in other Canadian immigration programs.
This pathway is specifically designed for those who have already integrated into Canadian society through recent local education or work experience. It is divided into two categories: Stream A (In-Canada Graduates) and Stream B (Canadian Work Experience). You may only apply under one stream.
Important Limitations and Deadlines
This pathway is a temporary public policy with a hard deadline.
- Expiry Date: The pathway is currently scheduled to expire on August 31, 2026. Your application must be submitted before this date.
- Quebec Exclusion: While you cannot apply if you intend to settle in Quebec, once you have been granted Permanent Residence, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms allows you to move between provinces. However, at the time of application, you must demonstrate a bona fide intent to live elsewhere.
- Status Maintenance: Processing can take over a year. You are responsible for maintaining your legal status (extending your work or study permit) while your PR application is pending.
Rights as a Canadian Permanent Resident
Once your application is approved and you receive your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), you gain significant protections and benefits:
- Right to Work and Study: You may live, work, or study anywhere in Canada for any employer or institution.
- Social Benefits: You gain access to most social benefits that Canadian citizens receive, including provincial healthcare coverage.
- Travel Rights: You can travel outside of Canada using your PR card, though you must meet residency obligations (living in Canada for at least two years out of every five) to maintain your status.
- Path to Citizenship: Time spent in Canada as a Permanent Resident counts toward the physical presence requirements for becoming a Canadian Citizen.
- Family Reunification: You may sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children to join you in Canada as permanent residents.
- Legal Protection: You are protected under Canadian law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.