Canada extends and expands open work permits for Hong Kong residents

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Hong Kong residents who have graduated within the past 10 years in Canada or abroad are now eligible to apply until 7 February 2025.

Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Sean Fraser has announced that the country is extending and expanding the open work permit programme for eligible Hong Kong residents.

Hong Kong residents who have graduated within the past 10 years from a post-secondary learning institution in Canada or abroad are now eligible to apply for an open work permit. Previously, applicants had to have graduated within the past five years. This means that more Hong Kong people can pursue their career goals and gain work experience in Canada for up to three years. 

The deadline for applications, which originally ended on 7 February 2023, has now been extended two years to 7 February 2025.

These measures apply to Hong Kong residents who hold a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region or British National (Overseas) passport. Under the Hong Kong open work permit public policy, spouses or common-law partners and dependent children are also eligible to apply for a study or work permit.

Fraser said the extension and expansion of Canada’s open work permits for Hongkongers is “giving Canadian employers more skilled workers to hire at a time when we need them most”, as well as “providing valuable work experience for the people of Hong Kong”.

In addition, the Government of Canada has established two pathways to permanent residence for eligible Hong Kong applicants and their families. Hong Kong residents who are currently in Canada can apply for permanent residence in Canada either under “In-Canada graduates” or “Canadian work experience” stream.

These measures will allow Canada to attract even more skilled individuals, including those who have already acquired work experience, which will help them quickly integrate into Canada’s workforce.

This public policy will be in effect until August 31, 2026.

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