Pathway closure on 2026-08-31 and applications in process
IRCC closed both permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents (Stream A in-Canada graduates and Stream B Canadian work experience) on 2026-08-31 and no longer accepts new applications. Applications received on or before 2026-08-31 continue to be processed under the public policy.
Both streams required the applicant to hold a valid HKSAR or British National (Overseas) passport, be physically present in Canada with valid temporary resident status both when applying and when permanent residence is granted, intend to live in Canada outside Quebec, and meet CLB 5 or NCLC 5 in all four language skills.
Source: IRCC: Permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents; IRCC: Program delivery instructions, Hong Kong pathways, checked 2026-10-18.
Stream A and Stream B eligibility and work records
- Stream A (in-Canada graduates): graduated in the 3 years before applying from a designated learning institution in Canada with a diploma of at least 2 years, an associate, bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree, or a graduate or post-graduate diploma or certificate of at least 1 year (requiring a post-secondary degree or diploma as a prerequisite), with at least 50% of the program completed in Canada.
- Stream B (Canadian work experience): worked in Canada for at least 1,560 hours in total (paid full-time or part-time authorized work, excluding self-employment and hours worked while a full-time student) in the 3 years before applying, with no education requirement.
- Evidence of work: employer reference letter on company letterhead, T4 slips, CRA Notices of Assessment (NOA), pay stubs, bank deposits and Record of Employment (ROE).
Source: IRCC: Who can apply, Hong Kong permanent residence pathways, checked 2026-10-18.
Certificate of No Criminal Conviction (CNCC) and the open work permit
Certificate of No Criminal Conviction (CNCC): after you apply, IRCC sends a police certificate request letter. You apply to the Certificate of No Criminal Conviction Office in Wan Chai using that letter, and the Hong Kong Police Force sends the certificate directly to the IRCC office at the Consulate General of Canada in Hong Kong.
Open work permit for applicants in process: if you applied for permanent residence under Stream A or Stream B and held a Canadian work or study permit in the 3 years before your permanent residence application was received, you can apply from inside Canada for an open work permit valid for up to 3 years (work permit fee C$155). This public policy is in place until May 2029; if your temporary status expired less than 90 days ago, you must also apply to restore your status.
Source: IRCC: Police certificates for Hong Kong; IRCC: Open work permit for Hong Kong permanent residence applicants, checked 2026-10-18.