Canada offers several pathways for skilled foreign workers to transition from temporary status to permanent residency. One critical tool in this process is the Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP), which allows eligible individuals to continue working in Canada while their permanent residence (PR) application is being processed. This guide will explain eligibility criteria, the application process, and how ICC Immigration can help you secure your future in Canada.

What is a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?

A Bridging Open Work Permit is designed for individuals who have already submitted a PR application and want to continue working in Canada while waiting for a decision. Unlike employer-specific work permits, a BOWP is not tied to a single employer, giving the holder the freedom to work for most employers across various industries.

Eligibility Criteria for BOWP

To qualify for a BOWP, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Temporary Resident Status: The applicant must currently reside in Canada as a temporary resident.
2. Permanent Residence (PR) Application Submission: The individual must have applied for PR as a principal applicant under one of these economic immigration programs:
   • Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program)
   • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) (if there are no employer restrictions on the nomination)
   • Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW) Program
   • Agri-Food Pilot
   • Home Child-Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot
3. Valid Work Permit or Maintained Status:
   • Must hold a valid work permit
   • Have an expired work permit but maintained status after applying for renewal
   • Eligible to restore temporary resident status with authorization to work
4. Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) Letter: Applicants must have received an AOR letter confirming their PR application submission.
5. Completed PR Application Stage:
   • If applying through Express Entry or QSW, the completeness check must be passed.
   • For other programs, the applicant must have received a positive eligibility assessment.

Conditions for BOWP Employment Location

While BOWPs are generally open, there are location restrictions in certain cases:

• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applicants must work in the province that nominated them.
• Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW) applicants must work in Quebec.

How to Apply for a BOWP

Applications for a Bridging Open Work Permit are generally submitted online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.

Steps to Apply

1. Confirm Eligibility
2. Log in to IRCC Portal and select “Open Work Permit” as the permit type.
3. Complete Required Forms
4. Provide Necessary Documentation (dependent on PR application stream)
5. Pay Work Permit and Open Work Permit Holder Fees
6. Submit the Application

Upon approval, the BOWP will remain valid until either:

• A decision is reached on the PR application, OR
• The BOWP (issued for a maximum of 24 months) or the applicant’s passport expires (whichever comes first).

Extensions

If a BOWP expires before the PR application is processed, IRCC may grant extensions of up to 12 months.

What if My Work Permit Expires Before Applying for a BOWP?

If a foreign national’s work permit expires before applying for a BOWP, they must stop working immediately unless they meet one of the following conditions:

1. Apply for a Visitor Record: Stay in Canada legally as a visitor (but without work authorization).
2. Leave Canada: Wait for PR application approval outside Canada.
3. Apply for a New Work Permit via Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Requires an employer with a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Can Family Members Apply for an Open Work Permit?

Family members of a BOWP holder may also apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP) if the principal applicant meets specific conditions:

Principal Applicant Requirements:

• Must be working or intend to work in Canada.
• Hold or be approved for a valid work permit.
• Work permit must be valid for at least six months after the family member’s OWP application.
• Applied for PR through an economic class immigration pathway.
• If under QSW, must hold a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ).
• Work in a high-skilled National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation.

Family Member Requirements:

• Must have valid temporary resident status (or be eligible for maintained/restored status).
• Must be a spouse/common-law partner, dependent child, or grandchild.

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex, but ICC Immigration is here to help. Our experienced professionals offer tailored guidance and expert legal support to ensure a smooth and successful immigration process.

Our Services:

✔ Permanent Residency Applications: We help applicants apply through Express Entry, PNPs, and other PR pathways. ✔ Work & Study Permits: Our team assists clients in securing temporary permits as a stepping stone to PR. ✔ Family Sponsorships: We help reunite families and process sponsorship applications. ✔ Legal Immigration Advice: Avoid the pitfalls of immigration law with expert guidance from our consultants.

Instead of risking uncertainty, take control of your future with ICC Immigration. Whether you’re in Canada or planning your move, we provide the best support for your immigration journey.

Conclusion

The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is an excellent option for foreign workers transitioning to permanent residency in Canada. Understanding the eligibility criteria and application process ensures that you can continue working legally while waiting for your PR application decision. If you need assistance, ICC Immigration is ready to help you every step of the way. Contact us today for a personalized consultation and take the next step toward a successful future in Canada.