Refugees and humanitarian
Two streams that gave Hong Kong residents who graduated or worked in Canada a route to permanent residence.
Closed to new applications on August 31, 2026. Applications received before then are still being processed.
This pathway is not taking new applications. The rules below describe how it worked, for reference and for anyone whose application is still being processed.
The main federal route to permanent residence for skilled workers, through the Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class and Federal Skilled Trades programs. You create a profile and IRCC invites the highest-ranked candidates.
Open. IRCC is recalculating every profile under the new CRS rules from November 3, 2026, and rounds resume once that is done.
Provinces and territories nominate people who fit their own labour needs. A nomination through an Express Entry-linked stream adds 600 CRS points.
Open. Each province runs its own streams and intake rounds, and several changed or paused streams in 2026, so check your province.
Every work permit that needs no LMIA: PGWPs, family open work permits, IEC, intra-company transfers and more. In 2025 it covered about 78% of work permits.
Open. Each category has its own rules.
Statuses change, sometimes with little notice. Always confirm on the official page before you apply. This is general information, not legal advice.
