Work permit renewal in Hong Kong
How to renew a work permit — how it works anywhere
Renewing a Hong Kong work permit requires an application to the Immigration Department to extend a stay for employment purposes. The process involves demonstrating that the applicant continues to be employed by the same employer and that the nature of the employment remains unchanged.
It is generally recommended to submit an application for an extension of stay within four weeks before the current limit of stay expires. This allows time for administrative processing and ensures legal status remains uninterrupted.
Start 28 days ahead
This reflects the standard window provided by the Immigration Department for submitting extension applications to ensure timely processing before expiry.
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The process
- 1Complete the relevant application form for the extension of stay.
- 2Obtain the necessary supporting documentation from the current employer confirming continued employment terms.
- 3Submit the application form and supporting documents to the Immigration Department online, by post, or in person.
- 4Attend any requested follow-up appointments if the Immigration Department requires additional information or verification.
- 5Collect the new visa label or endorsement once the application is approved.
What to bring
- Completed application form (ID 91)
- Travel document (passport)
- Current employment contract or a letter from the employer confirming the terms of employment
- Hong Kong identity card
Who handles it
入境事務處 (Immigration Department)
Fees are subject to change and are set by the Immigration Department; applicants should verify the current fee for an extension of stay on the official government website.
What commonly goes wrong
- Submitting an application after the current visa or limit of stay has expired can lead to illegal overstaying.
- Changes in the nature of employment or a change of employer may require a separate application for a change of sponsorship rather than a standard extension.
- Incomplete application forms or missing employer support letters frequently lead to processing delays.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
- 入境事務處 (Immigration Department) immd.gov.hk
Don't rely on remembering
Renewals here take about 28 days to start. Add this document and Duratum will tell you when that window opens.