Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that two temporary permanent-residence pathways created for eligible Hong Kong residents will stop accepting new applications after August 31, 2026.The program currently offers two options: Stream A for eligible people who completed post-secondary studies in Canada and Stream B for applicants who acquired qualifying Canadian work experience. Applicants must be physically present in Canada, hold valid temporary status and plan to settle outside Quebec, along with meeting the requirements of their selected stream.Applications submitted on or before the closing date will continue to be assessed. IRCC reported that, as of June 30, 2026, it had received approximately 30,315 applications representing 48,560 people. More than 8,600 applications covering 13,485 individuals had been approved, while approximately 13,370 people had already become permanent residents.Prospective applicants should ensure that they submit a complete application before the deadline. Filing an application does not guarantee approval, as every case remains subject to eligibility, documentation and admissibility requirements.Why it matters: The closure eliminates a special route to permanent residence for Hong Kong residents who studied or worked in Canada. Eligible candidates now have a limited period to complete their submissions.
