If you’re waiting for a decision on your permanent residence (PR) application in Canada, a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) can help you continue working legally while your PR application is being processed. A BOWP is an open work permit, meaning it’s not tied to a specific job or employer, allowing you to work for most employers in Canada.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about BOWPs, including:
- Who is eligible for a BOWP;
- How to apply for a BOWP;
- What to do if your work permit expires before applying for a BOWP; and
- Whether your family members can apply for an open work permit.
Let’s dive in!
What Is a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?
A BOWP is a temporary work permit designed for foreign nationals who have applied for PR under certain economic immigration programs. It allows you to keep working in Canada while waiting for your PR application to be finalized. BOWPs are typically issued for up to two years and can be extended if needed.
Who Is Eligible for a BOWP?
To qualify for a BOWP, you must meet the following criteria:
- Reside in Canada: You must be living in Canada on a valid temporary resident status.
- Applied for PR: You must have applied for PR as the principal applicant under one of the following programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry);
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (Express Entry);
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (Express Entry);
- Provincial Nominee Program (if your nomination has no employer restrictions);
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSW);
- Agri-Food Pilot;
- Home Child-Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot; or
- Caring for Children Class or Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class (if applied before June 18, 2019).
- Valid Work Status: You must either:
- Hold a valid work permit;
- Have an expired work permit but be on maintained status (applied for a work permit renewal before it expired); or
- Be eligible to restore your status and receive a work permit.
- Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR): You must have received an AOR letter for your PR application.
- Completed APR Stage: Your PR application must have passed a completeness check (for Express Entry or QSW) or received a positive eligibility assessment (for other programs).
If your work permit expires while your BOWP application is being processed, you can continue working under maintained status, provided you applied for the BOWP before your work permit expired and remain in Canada.
Conditions on Employment Location
While BOWPs are open work permits, there are two exceptions where employment location is restricted:
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Applicants: You can only work in the province or territory that nominated you.
- Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW) Applicants: You must select Quebec as your employment location.
How to Apply for a BOWP
Applying for a BOWP is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria listed above.
- Apply Online: Submit your application through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) online portal.
- Select Permit Type: Choose “Open Work Permit” as the permit type.
- Complete Forms: Fill out the required forms accurately.
- Provide Documents: Submit the documents listed on the IRCC checklist, including your AOR letter and proof of work status.
- Pay Fees: Pay the work permit processing fee and the open work permit holder fee.
- Submit Application: Review your application and submit it online.
Once approved, your BOWP will be valid until:
- A decision is made on your PR application; or
- Your BOWP or passport expires (whichever comes first).
If your BOWP expires before your PR application is finalized, IRCC may extend it for up to 12 months at a time.
What If Your Work Permit Expires Before Applying for a BOWP?
If your work permit has expired and you haven’t applied for a BOWP, you’re no longer authorized to work in Canada. However, you have three options:
- Apply for a Visitor Record: You can stay in Canada as a visitor but must stop working.
- Leave Canada: You can leave the country and wait for your PR application to be processed.
- Apply for a New Work Permit: You can seek a work permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) if an employer is willing to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Can Family Members Apply for an Open Work Permit?
Yes, your family members may be eligible for an open work permit if you meet the following requirements:
Principal Applicant Requirements:
- You are living and working in Canada or plan to do so;
- You have a valid work permit or are approved for one;
- Your work permit will be valid for at least six months after IRCC receives your family member’s application;
- Your work permit was issued or approved after applying for an economic class PR pathway; and
- You work in a high-skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3).
Family Member Requirements:
- They meet general work permit eligibility criteria;
- They have valid temporary resident status, applied for maintained status, or are eligible to restore their status; and
- They are your spouse/common-law partner, dependent child, or grandchild.
Why Apply for a BOWP?
A BOWP ensures you can continue working in Canada while waiting for your PR application to be processed. It provides flexibility, allowing you to work for any employer in most occupations. Additionally, it helps maintain your legal status in Canada, avoiding gaps in your work authorization.
If you need assistance with your BOWP application or have questions about your eligibility, consider scheduling a free consultation with an immigration professional.
