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Canada is a hotbed of Asian immigration to North America. For many Hong Kong citizens looking to immigrate to Canada from Hong Kong, the country’s high standard of living, peaceful natural environment, political freedoms, and welcoming culture are highly attractive. The country offers a tremendous opportunity for Hong Kong nationals to have the chance to start a new, better life on the other side of the world.
Ready for a fresh start in the ever-growing country of Canada? If you are, here are the following four best pathways to immigrate to Canada from Hong Kong!
Best Pathways To Immigrate To Canada From Hong Kong
Hong Kong residents seeking to immigrate to Canada have several pathways available to them. The following are the four most suitable and, as a result, the most popular among Hong Kong citizens
Express Entry
The Express Entry system is a popular pathway for skilled workers to immigrate to Canada. This popularity is based on its fast processing times, which can be as fast as six months. Express Entry is a points-based system that assesses candidates based on their:
- Age
- Education
- Language proficiency
- Work experience
Hong Kong residents must create an online profile and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). Candidates that meet the eligibility criteria are entered into a pool of candidates and assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Candidates with high CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residence through regular Express Entry draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenships Canada (IRCC).
Once invited, applicants have 60 days to submit a complete application. The IRCC conducts regular draws to invite candidates with high CRS scores to apply for permanent residency.
You can evaluate your CRS score using our CRS calculator.
Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP)
The Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP) is a skilled worker immigration program administered under the Express Entry system. This program is designed for highly skilled workers and professionals with skill levels of education, work experience, and language proficiency outlined in Teaching, Experience, Education, and Responsibilities (TEER) 0, 1, and 2.
Applicants must submit an Express Entry profile and enter the pool of candidates. They must also demonstrate English or French proficiency by taking a standardized Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) test such as the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Pearson Test of English (PTE).
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) operates under the Express Entry system and is specifically designed for individuals with experience in skilled trades. This program aims to address the labor market needs in Canada by attracting skilled workers in specific trade occupations such as:
To apply, Hong Kong residents must have at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the five years before their application. They must also meet age, language proficiency, and work experience requirements outlined in TEER 2 or 3.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is an Express Entry immigration pathway specifically designed for individuals who have gained work experience in Canada. Hong Kong residents who have studied or worked in Canada can use this program to obtain permanent residency. Applicants must have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada and meet the CLB language requirements.
Applicants must also demonstrate their intention to live outside Quebec, as Express Entry programs do not apply to Quebec. Similar to the FSWP and FSTP, successful applicants will receive an ITA.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
In addition to the federal programs mentioned above, Hong Kong residents can also explore the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) to immigrate to Canada. The PNP allows provinces and territories in Canada to nominate individuals who meet their specific labor market needs.
Each province has its own criteria and selection processes, offering a wide range of opportunities for Hong Kong residents. Candidates nominated by a province or territory are awarded an additional 600 points in the Express Entry system, increasing their chances of receiving an ITA for permanent residency.
Pilot Programs
Apart from the main immigration pathways, Canada also offers various pilot programs to facilitate immigration. These programs target specific industries and regions in Canada that require skilled workers. Some notable pilot programs include the:
Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a permanent residence immigration pathway for skilled foreign workers and international graduates from a Canadian institution who want to live and work in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces:
The program helps Canadian employers hire qualified foreign worker candidates for jobs not filled by local Canadian residents and citizens .
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) is a community-driven program. It’s designed to spread the benefits of economic immigration to smaller communities by creating a path to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers who want to work and live in one of the participating communities.
Home Care and Child Provider Pilot
The Home Care and Child Provider Pilots (HCCPP) are economic pilot programs created to attract and retain foreign national caregivers who have Canadian work experience from an eligible caregiver occupation or a qualifying job offer. Candidates must also meet the minimum language proficiency and education requirements the IRCC sets.
Agri-food Pilot
The Agri-Food Pilot (AFP) helps address the labor needs of the Canadian agri-food sector by attracting and retaining eligible, non-seasonal foreign workers to agricultural work opportunities in specific industries and occupations outside of Quebec. These pilot programs provide ample opportunities for Hong Kong residents to immigrate to Canada, especially if they possess skills or experience in the targeted industries and occupations.
Temporary Visas
For Hong Kong residents already in Canada via a temporary visa, the IRCC has implemented a temporary public policy to help them transition from temporary to permanent residency status.
Going from TR to PR
The temporary public policy has two pathways to permanent residence to facilitate the immigration of temporary resident Hong Kong immigrants in Canada..
The are primarily two streams that you can use to go from being a temporary resident to a permanent resident of Canada from Hong Kong. They are
- Stream A: In-Canada graduates (for Hong Kong graduates in Canada)
- Steam B:Canadian work experience (for temporary resident Hong Kong workers in Canada)
Please note that this temporary public policy is valid until August 31, 2023.
Find out more about the temporary public policy for Hong Kong residents to go from TR to PR.
Why Immigrate to Canada From Hong Kong?
Hong Kong residents looking to immigrate to Canada have numerous compelling reasons to make the move. From socio-political stability to a booming job market, Canada offers a range of benefits for those seeking a new life abroad.
Socio-Political Stability
One of the primary reasons to immigrate to Canada from Hong Kong is the country's socio-political stability. With a strong democratic system and respect for religious and human rights, Canada provides a safe and secure environment for individuals and families.
This stability offers peace of mind and a sense of security that can be hard to find in other parts of the world. Hong Kong immigrants will find comfort in the democratic values and institutions in Canada, which are in a state of insecurity and instability in their own country.
Learn more about Canada's socio-political and safety levels.
Booming Job Market
Canada's booming job market is another enticing factor for immigrants from Hong Kong. The country boasts a strong and diverse economy, with various job opportunities available across various sectors.
Lucrative industries professional immigrants from Hong Kong would be leading candidates of include:
Find out more about Canada’s booming job market and economy.
- Technology
- Finance
- Healthcare
- Engineering
High Demand
In addition to a booming job market, Canada also experiences a high demand for skilled workers. Take a look below at the in-demand occupations map which tracks the labor market data in each province, thereby producing a list of in-demand occupations in each province.
Earn a High Wage
The high demand translates to higher wages and better employment benefits for Canadian permanent residents and citizens. Immigrants from Hong Kong who possess in-demand skills and qualifications have the opportunity to secure well-paying jobs that offer financial stability and a high quality of life.
Canada’s buying power as measured by purchasing power parity is 58,399.5 CAD per capita according to the World Bank. In comparison, the buying power in Hong Kong in purchasing power parity terms is 24 947,56 CAD per capita, according to the World Bank.
World-class Government Services
Canada is renowned for its world-class government services, which are available to all residents, including immigrants from Hong Kong. These services cover a range of essential aspects of daily life, including education, healthcare, and environmental protection. You can track these services online through the Service Canada portal.
Education
Canada's education system consistently ranks among the best in the world, according to world populationreview.com. Immigrants from Hong Kong can benefit from access to top-notch educational institutions, such as the University of Toronto and McGill University, both universities in Canada ranked in the top 50 Times Higher Education (THE) universities list.
Healthcare
Canada's healthcare system is highly regarded globally, providing comprehensive and affordable medical services to all residents through Medicare. Immigrants from Hong Kong can access quality healthcare without the high costs often associated with private healthcare systems. This ensures peace of mind and the knowledge that your health is cared for in case of injury or illness.
Learn more about Canada’s Healthcare System.
Environmental Protection
Canada, as a signatory to the COP environmental accords, is committed to environmental protection and sustainability. The country has vast natural landscapes, clean air, and water resources.
Immigrants from Hong Kong will benefit from living in a country that prioritizes environmental conservation and creating a healthy environment for current and future generations.
Diverse, Vibrant People
Canada prides itself on its diversity and multiculturalism, making it a welcoming and inclusive nation for immigrants from any walk of life or country. The country is home to a vibrant and diverse population of different ethnicities, religions, cultures, and socio-economic backgrounds.
Find out more about multiculturalism in Canada.
Expat Community
Immigrants from Hong Kong will find a thriving Asian-American expat community in Canada. Expat communities offer support, guidance, and a sense of belonging for individuals adjusting to Canadian society and culture.
Twin City
Vancouver, Canada's third largest city, is often referred to as "Hongcouver" due to its high population of Hong Kong immigrants. The nickname reflects the strong presence of the Hong Kong community in Vancouver and makes the city an ideal destination for new immigrants looking for a familiar cultural environment.
The presence of a large Hong Kong community provides opportunities for social and cultural integration while maintaining connections to one's roots.
Affordable Cost of Living
Canada offers an affordable cost of living due to its abundant natural resources, abundant land and highly favorable international trade agreements with countries like the United States. .
The cost of living for a family of four in Hong Kong (with apartment rent) is 11,231.61 CAD according to numbeo.com. In contrast, in Canada, the cost of living for a family of four (with apartment rent) in Canada is 7,513.47 CAD according to numbeo.com, a difference of 3,718.14 CAD.
Housing (Living Space)
Housing in Canada is generally more spacious and affordable compared to Hong Kong, one of the most densely populated places in the world. From apartments and townhouses to single-family homes, Canada offers a variety of choices for individuals and families looking for a place to call home. According to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), the average price of a home in Canada is 906, 061.36 CAD.
Learn more about buying a house in Canada.
FAQs
What are the Requirements to Immigrate to Canada From Hong Kong?
To immigrate to Canada from Hong Kong, individuals must meet certain requirements set by the Canadian government. These requirements vary depending on the immigration pathway chosen. It is advisable to consult with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consult (RCIC) or visit the official IRCC website for detailed information on the specific requirements for each immigration pathway. In general, you will have to meet the minimum criteria for admissibility factors such as:
- Age
- Criminal record
- Medical history
- Education
Where Can I Get Assistance With My Canada Permanent Residency Application?
Various resources are available to assist immigrants from Hong Kong in their applications. RCICs and immigration lawyers specializing in Canadian immigration can provide guidance and support throughout the application process.
Furthermore, the official Canadian government website offers comprehensive information, guidelines, and forms to help individuals understand and complete their permanent residency applications successfully.
