First off, apologies to anyone that may have previously started a relevant post that may answer my questions. If I didn't see, it wasn't from not looking. Just point me in the direction, and off I'll go....
First question: If I am hired by an employer in HK, can I start working for them WHILE they are applying for the work permit for me? I understand this process could take up to a month. Is there some kind of temporary permit that would allow you to start for the employer right away?
Second: (and I have read some similiar posts regarding this but I'm still not too clear on it): From the posts I've read, it seems that if I change employers while in HK, my new employer still has to go thru the whole application process for my new work permit. I've read here that I don't actually (physically) get a new permit, but the new employer needs to apply for one anyway.
So, I assume that when I first come to HK and get a work permit, it's not "mine to keep and travel around with?" I.e. I can't quit my first job and find a new job without the govt finding out?
And, as implied from what I said earlier and what I've been reading, it's just as much as a pain in the a** for the new employer to apply for the change in work permit as it was for the original employer to apply for the original permit.
Having assumed all this, they WHY do I see SO MANY jobs asking that you already must have the work permit as a prerequisite to being hired? This sort of implies that it is much easier for them to hire someone with the permit than it is to hire someone without, who is fresh from abroad.
Anyone able to shed some light on this? Thanks to any and all who can help.