GuideCAN impact rating
Major change
The intake deadline has passed. Existing applicants should focus on their application and temporary status.
What happened?
The August 31, 2026 deadline for new applications under the temporary Hong Kong permanent-residence pathways has passed.
IRCC says it will continue processing applications received on or before the deadline.
What changed?
- New applications are no longer accepted under these pathways.
- Applications already received by the deadline remain in processing.
- A separate open-work-permit public policy for eligible pathway applicants remains in place until May 2029.
What changed since the previous position?
Previous position
Eligible applicants could submit a new application under Stream A or Stream B.
Current position
IRCC is processing existing files but is no longer accepting new pathway applications.
Who is affected?
- Hong Kong nationals who did not submit an application by the deadline.
- Applicants who submitted by the deadline and are waiting for a decision.
- Some applicants who may need to maintain temporary status while their permanent-residence file is processed.
What this means for you
- If you missed the deadline, these pathways no longer accept a new application. Review other immigration options using current IRCC requirements.
- If you already applied, this notice does not say that your application is cancelled. Keep your contact information current and respond to IRCC requests.
- Temporary status and work authorization are separate from a permanent-residence application. Verify whether you need to extend or restore your status.
What should you do next?
- 1If you applied, keep your submission confirmation and monitor IRCC messages.
- 2If you did not apply, review other pathways before making a new immigration plan.
- 3Review the open-work-permit policy if you already applied and need continued work authorization.
- 4Get advice from an authorized immigration representative if your eligibility or status is unclear.
Does this affect me?
Start with your current status
Official sources
This GuideCAN summary was checked against the linked Government of Canada sources.
IRCC notice: Hong Kong permanent residence pathways closing to new applicationsThis article is general information, not legal advice or an eligibility decision. Immigration rules, dates and program instructions can change. Confirm your situation with IRCC or an authorized immigration professional.