On December 20^th, 2022, MKS partner Kyle Hyndman was featured in the CBC News article ‘As residents flee Hong Kong, some want Canada to do more to bring them here’.

Many Hong Kong residents are calling on Canada to expand eligibility for special immigration programs targeted at those leaving the territory. Statistics have shown that Hong Kong residents are leaving the country permanently in rising numbers, hitting an all-time high in 2022.

Hong Kong Citizens Desperate for Permanent Residency in Canada 

Many former Hong Kong residents believe that the territory is no longer a safe place to live, between political crackdowns and strict COVID-19 policies, leading many to look for alternatives.  With a large population of residents with Hong Kong roots and strong family and business ties, Canada presents a natural option for many.

Currently there are two Hong Kong-specific options to apply for permanent residence in Canada. These include students who have graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution in the last 3 years, and those who have graduated from a post-secondary institution abroad in the last 5 years and have 1 year of work experience in Canada. Hong Kong residents can also apply using one of Canada’s existing immigration programs.

Kyle Hyndman, one of Canada’s top immigration lawyers, argues special immigration programs may need to be adjusted to reach more Hong Kong residents, particularly those who are highly qualified but are not recent graduates. He states “There is an argument for expanding these programs to catch more of those mid-career professionals.” He continues, “If they don’t come here, they’re going to go somewhere else.”

Kyle Hyndman is recognized for his clear and practical advice on immigration for individuals and all sizes of businesses alongside his compassion, humour, and dedication to his legal advice.  He works with many Hong Kong families seeking to build new lives in Canada.

MKS Immigration Lawyers is a full-service immigration law firm that can help individuals and families more easily immigrate and attain permanent residence in Canada. If you are looking for assistance in moving to Canada, MKS can help answer your questions and represent you in your immigration journey.

To book a consultation with Kyle Hyndman or another lawyer at MKS Immigration Lawyers, click here.

To read the complete CBC News article click here: As residents flee Hong Kong, some want Canada to do more to bring them here