Permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents – Optional: Open Work Permit in Canada (“OOWP”)

The IRCC has announced a public policy that allows PR applicants under Hong Kong Pathway who are currently in Canada to maintain their temporary resident status by applying for OOWPs (valid for 3 years) while waiting for their PR Application decision.

Eligibility:

1. Be in Canada with valid temporary resident status OR eligible to restore status
2. Have already applied for PR through Hong Kong Pathway
3. The PR Application MUST be ACCEPTED and is currently UNDER PROCESSING by IRCC
4. Have held a work or study permit within the previous 3 years before PR submission

Family members (In-Canada Spouse & Children INCLUDED in your PR Application):

• Spouse and other adult dependent will be also eligible for OWPs if they are with valid temporary resident status or are eligible to restore their status
• Dependent minor child may also apply for a study permit

Please feel free to contact us (Regina Lee: reginalee@mbb.ca | ext. 325 / Michael Wong: michaelwong@mbb.ca | ext. 316) for any immigration enquiries.

Prepared on April 16, 2025