Since 2021, over 7,000 Hong Kong residents have become permanent residents in Canada through special immigration measures introduced in response to China’s National Security Law. But with key programs approaching expiry and processing delays stretching into 2027, uncertainty is growing for thousands of applicants. As Canada shifts toward a more security and economically-driven immigration policy, its long-term commitment to vulnerable populations—like Hong Kongers—now appears increasingly uncertain under the Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) class.
Background and Policy Context: Canada’s immigration response to vulnerable populations is under increased scrutiny as the economic recession begins. A 27% reduction in the Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) quota—from 13,750 in 2024 to 10,000 in 2025—combined with ongoing processing delays projected into 2027, is creating a landscape of uncertainty for Hong Kong immigrants. Originally welcomed through temporary public policies introduced in response to Beijing’s National Security Law, many applicants now face administrative delays, expiring permits, and unclear processing timeline about their immigration status. As immigration policy shifts toward enforcement and economic priorities, concerns are mounting over whether Canada’s immigration system can maintain its humanitarian commitments in an increasingly complex geopolitical context.
