Jun 25, 2018 – Canada admitted a record number of Hong Kong citizens as permanent residents in 2017, as applications from the territory also increased by 30 per cent.
The year saw 1,270 new permanent residents from Hong Kong admitted, the biggest influx since 1997. The numbers following a significant spike in 2016, when 1,210 new permanent residents were admitted, nearly double the 630 given PR status in 2015.
How Many Hong Kong Citizens Become Canadian Permanent Residents?
Figures: Government of Canada
Federal government figures also show that 1,561 people applied from Hong Kong in 2017, up from 1,206 in 2016.
Application figures have been on an upwards trend since 2012 when 963 applications were received.
The numbers are important for Canada, as Hong Kong is viewed as one of the world’s foremost destinations for skilled workers.
That Canada has been able to attract interest from the territory shows its skilled worker immigration policies are working.
How Many PR Applications Does Canada Receive From Hong Kong?
Figures: Government of Canada
Meanwhile, separate figures show there are 300,000 Hong Kong residents holding Canadian passports.
The numbers are leading to fears in Hong Kong that the territory suffering a brain drain to Canada and other countries.
Experts point to the trend in Hong Kong to send children abroad for education. This is supported by the rising numbers of Canada Study Permitsissued to Hong Kong residents.
In 2017, 2,450 Study Permits were issued, with numbers doubling from 1,222 in 2012.
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How Many Hong Kong Citizens Are Studying In Canada?
Figures: Government of Canada
How to Apply For Canada PR From Hong Kong
Canada has made no secret of its intention to target Asian countries like Hong Kong and China for new permanent residents and international students.
New visa centres have been opened across China to make it easier for applications to be submitted and processed.
Qualified technology skilled workers can have their work permits processed in two weeks via the Global Talent Stream.
Once in Canada, candidates can achieve permanent residence quickly through the Express Entry System.
Canada courts international students from all over the world by establishing a clear pathway to permanent residence and citizenship after graduation.
It recently introduced expedited Study Permit processing for Asian candidates under the new Student Direct Stream.
International students completing their degrees can access the Post-Graduate Work Permit, gaining the experience needed to become a Canadian permanent resident via Express Entry or a provincial immigration program.
Some of the time spent in Canada as a temporary resident can also count towards a citizenship application under recent changes made by the Liberal government.
