Optional Hong Kong Work Permit for PR Applicants (OOWP)

Chun, a graphic designer from Hong Kong, moved to Vancouver as an international student. He later applied for permanent residence in Canada under the Permanent Residence Pathways for Hong Kong residents. However, while waiting for his application to be processed, his temporary permit was close to expiring. Unsure he could stay and work, he discovered the Hong Kong work permit—a unique opportunity that changed everything.

Understanding the Hong Kong Work Permit

The Canadian government offers a special open work permit to Hong Kong residents applying for permanent residence. This permit allows applicants to work while awaiting PR approval.

Who Can Apply for This Permit

To qualify, applicants must:

• Have applied under one of the two PR pathways for Hong Kong residents
• Be in Canada at the time of application
• Have held a Canadian work or study permit within the last three years
• Be eligible for a work permit

This permit is valid for three years and lets applicants work for any employer, except those:

• Found ineligible by the government
• Offering striptease, escort services, or erotic massage

When and Why to Apply

You should apply only if your current status will expire before your PR decision. You have until May 2029 to apply.

If Your Status Already Expired

You’re still eligible if:

• Your temporary status expired within the last 90 days
• You’re in Canada

In this case, you must also pay a $239.75 restoration fee.

Who Can’t Apply

You can’t apply if:

• Your PR application was refused, withdrawn, or returned

Permits for Family Members

If you include your family members in your PR application, they may also qualify for work or study permits.

Spouses and Children Over 18

They can apply for an open work permit along with you.

Studying in Canada

You may study without a study permit if you’re the principal applicant. However, family members must apply for a study permit if their program lasts over six months.

Minor Children

Minor children might need a study permit depending on the province’s age of majority. Always check local regulations.

How to Apply for the Work Permit

The application must be submitted online through your IRCC account.

Steps to Apply

1. Prepare Your Tools
   You need a scanner or camera and a valid credit or debit card.
2. Read the Guide
   Review the instruction guide before filling out your form.
3. Understand the Fees
   You must pay $155 for the work permit. Add the restoration fee if applicable.
4. Create or Sign In to Your Account
   Use your IRCC secure account to submit the application.
5. Get Your Personalized Document Checklist
   Answer the system questions correctly to receive the right checklist.
6. Enter Specific Job Details
   In the application form:
   • Select “Open Work Permit”
   • Job title: “HK OWP”
   • Job description: “HK OWP – APR Applicant in Canada Public Policy”
7. Upload Documents
   Your checklist will include most of the required documents. Also, add:
   • Family Information Form (IMM 5707)
   • Marriage Licence or Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union (IMM 5409)
   • Birth certificates of children

The “Optional Documents” section is used to upload one compressed “Client Information.”

Using a Representative

If using an authorized representative, they can apply through the APR Portal. Ensure you answer “yes” to the public policy eligibility question.

After You Apply

Once you’ve applied, you can:

• Track your application status
• Receive updates through your IRCC account

If you apply before your permit expires, you qualify for “maintained status.” This means:

• You can continue working under the same conditions
• You’ll get a letter to prove your status

Even if your permit expires before a decision, maintained status keeps you eligible to work.

Extending Your Work Permit

If your permit is close to expiring:

• Apply for an extension before it expires
• Continue working under a maintained status
• Wait for IRCC’s final decision

Let Us Help!

Navigating the Hong Kong work permit process may seem overwhelming. However, with the right steps and guidance, you can continue building your future in Canada. If you qualify and need help, book a consultation session with the author today.