After you apply

You can keep working under the same conditions as your original work permit while you wait for a decision on your extension application if

• you applied to extend your work permit before February 7, 2025, and
• your work permit was still valid when you applied

This is called maintained status.

How to keep working

If you applied before the program closed, we’ll send you a letter in your account that you can use as proof that you’re authorized to keep working.

• You can print this letter or show it with your current work permit.
• You can keep working past the expiry date on the letter until we process your application if the conditions are the same as on your original work permit.

If we don’t finalize your application by the expiry date on your letter

If we don’t finalize your application by the expiry date on your letter, you can still keep working until we make a decision.

If your employer or others need proof that you can continue to work, you can show them this web page.

Learn more about working while we process your application.

If your work permit has expired, you must leave Canada and apply to return under a different program.

You may be eligible to apply for permanent residence under the Canadian work experience stream for Hong Kong residents. This pathway is open until August 31, 2026.

You can use the work experience you gained with this or any other work permit to meet the hours of work requirement for the pathway.

Learn more about the permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents.

You may be eligible to apply for another open work permit that’s valid for up to 3 years if

• you applied for permanent residence under one of the pathways for Hong Kong residents and you’re waiting for your application to be processed
• your open work permit will expire soon

Find out if you’re eligible and how to apply.