What Is a Bridging Open Work Permit?
A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is an open work permit designed to bridge the gap between the expiry of your current work permit and the final decision on your permanent residency application. It ensures that you can continue working legally in Canada while waiting for your PR application to be processed.
Without a BOWP, you could find yourself in a situation where your work permit expires before your permanent residency is approved, potentially leaving you unable to work legally despite having a pending PR application.
Who Qualifies for a BOWP?
To be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you must meet all of the following conditions:
- Be physically present in Canada
- Hold a valid work permit (or have held one that has not been expired for more than four months at the time you apply for the BOWP)
- Have submitted a complete application for permanent residency under one of the eligible programs
- Have received a positive eligibility determination on your PR application (this means IRCC has confirmed that your application meets the basic requirements and has moved to the next stage of processing)
Eligible PR Programs
The BOWP is available to applicants under the following permanent residency programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (via Express Entry)
- Canadian Experience Class (via Express Entry)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (via Express Entry)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (both Express Entry-aligned and non-Express Entry streams)
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
- Agri-Food Pilot
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program (in certain circumstances)
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Verify that you have a pending PR application that has received a positive eligibility determination and that you hold a valid work permit (or one that expired within the past four months).
Step 2: Gather Documents
You will need:
- Proof that you have applied for permanent residency (your acknowledgement of receipt letter from IRCC showing your application number)
- Your current work permit (or proof of your most recent work permit)
- A valid passport or travel document
- Two photographs meeting IRCC specifications
Step 3: Apply Online
Submit your BOWP application through the IRCC online portal. Select "Bridging Open Work Permit" as the type of work permit you are applying for. The fee is CAD $255 for the work permit plus CAD $100 for the open work permit holder fee.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
BOWP processing times vary but are generally faster than regular work permit applications since IRCC recognizes the urgency of maintaining work authorization for PR applicants.
Key Features of the BOWP
- Open work permit: You can work for any employer in any occupation anywhere in Canada
- Duration: Typically issued until a decision is made on your PR application or for a specific period (often one year), renewable if your PR application is still pending
- Implied status: If you apply for a BOWP before your current work permit expires, you receive implied status allowing you to continue working under the conditions of your current permit while the BOWP is being processed
What Happens If Your PR Application Is Refused?
If your permanent residency application is ultimately refused, your BOWP becomes invalid. You would need to either leave Canada before your status expires, apply for a different type of work permit, or explore other immigration options. This is why it is important to ensure your PR application is as strong as possible.
Common Misconceptions
- You can apply as soon as you submit your PR application: Not quite. You need a positive eligibility determination first, which means IRCC has reviewed your application and confirmed it meets the basic requirements.
- A BOWP is guaranteed: While most eligible applicants receive a BOWP, it is still subject to standard admissibility checks and IRCC's processing procedures.
- A BOWP automatically extends your temporary resident status: The BOWP is a work permit, not a general temporary resident status extension. However, it does provide work authorization.
Planning Ahead
The best approach is to plan your timelines carefully:
- Submit your PR application as early as possible
- Monitor your work permit expiry date and plan to apply for a BOWP before it expires
- Keep all your immigration documents organized and accessible
- Respond promptly to any requests from IRCC for additional information
How Imigrando Can Help
Timing is critical when it comes to Bridging Open Work Permits. At Imigrando, we help clients coordinate the timing of their PR applications and BOWPs to ensure there are no gaps in work authorization. We monitor your application status, alert you when it is time to apply for a BOWP, and prepare the application on your behalf. Contact us to ensure your transition to permanent residency is seamless.