Open work permit program for Hong Kong residents expanded

IMPACT — MEDIUM

The Canadian government recently expanded and extended its open work permit program for Hong Kong residents.

Key Points:

• Hong Kong residents now have until Feb. 7, 2025, to apply for an open work permit in Canada.
• Hong Kong residents who have graduated within the past 10 years from a post-secondary learning institution in Canada or abroad can now apply for an open work permit.
• Previously, applicants had to have graduated within the past five years from a post-secondary learning institution to apply for an open work permit.
• Hong Kong residents who obtain an open work permit can work in Canada for up to three years under the program and may be eligible for further work permits or permanent residency, depending on their circumstances.

Additional Information: Under the Hong Kong open work permit program, spouses, common-law partners and dependent children are eligible to apply for a study or work permit. Hong Kong residents “at risk of persecution” who have fled to another country may also be eligible under Canada’s existing resettlement programs, including the Private Sponsorship of Refugees Programand the Government-Assisted Refugees Program.

BAL Analysis: The expanded open work program will allow Canada to attract more skilled individuals, including those who have already acquired work experience, to address labor shortages.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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