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Canada Eases Immigration From Hong Kong

Craig McCulloch

   VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA - Canada is easing the requirements for
   some students from Hong Kong to stay in Canada, a reaction to
   crackdowns by China in the former British colony.

   Starting this month, the government will allow work permits to be
   granted to Hong Kong residents who have graduated from a Canadian
   university, or a similar school, in the last five years. The permits
   will last for up to three years. Subsequently, the students can apply
   to become permanent residents and eventually Canadian citizens.

   The move is a direct response to the National Security Law in Hong
   Kong. It follows moves by other countries, such as Britain, which is
   now allowing those with British National Overseas passports to come and
   stay there.

   Graduates who have already returned to Hong Kong can apply, as can
   those with education credentials from other countries, provided the
   diploma came from a program of at least two years.

   Given the current travel restrictions because of the coronavirus
   pandemic, the first applicants are most likely already in Canada.

   Activists' arrest

   Vancouver immigration lawyer and policy analyst Richard Kurland said
   the move had been expected, but the timing appeared to be related to
   the latest arrests of pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong.

   "Well, no surprise," he said. "This has been on the planning books for
   a long time in anticipation of events in Hong Kong progressing as they
   have been progressing. It's the timing of the announcement, which is
   key."

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