Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) in Canada

The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is a special type of open work permit that allows foreign nationals in Canada to continue working while waiting for a decision on their permanent residence (PR) application. It helps applicants maintain legal work status without interruption during the immigration processing period.

At Can Entry Immigration, we assist applicants in understanding BOWP eligibility, preparing accurate documentation, and ensuring smooth submission under Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines.

What is a Bridging Open Work Permit?

A Bridging Open Work Permit is issued to individuals who have already applied for permanent residence under eligible immigration programs and are currently in Canada on a valid work permit that is about to expire.

It “bridges” the gap between the expiry of a current work permit and the final decision on a PR application, allowing the applicant to continue working legally in Canada.

Key Features of BOWP

• Open work permit (not tied to a specific employer)
• Allows continued work while PR application is processed
• Valid across most provinces and occupations
• Issued to eligible PR applicants inside Canada
• Helps maintain legal status without work interruption

Who Can Apply for BOWP?

To be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit, applicants must meet specific IRCC conditions.

• Must be physically in Canada
• Must hold a valid work permit that is expiring soon
• Must have submitted a permanent residence application under eligible programs
• Must have received an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC
• Must meet admissibility requirements

Eligible Permanent Residence Programs

BOWP is available for applicants under specific PR pathways, including:

• Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades)
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – non-employer restricted streams
• Quebec Skilled Worker Program (selected cases)
• Home Child Care Provider Pilot / Home Support Worker Pilot

Ineligible Cases

Not all PR applicants qualify for a BOWP. It is not available if:

• PR application is not yet submitted
• Applicant is outside Canada
• PR application is under family sponsorship only (in most cases)
• Applicant has not received AOR from IRCC

Documents Required

• Valid passport
• Current work permit
• Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) for PR application
• Proof of PR application submission
• Immigration file number (if available)
• Completed IRCC work permit application forms

Application Process

1. Submit permanent residence application under eligible program.
2. Receive Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC.
3. Apply for Bridging Open Work Permit online.
4. Provide supporting documents including current work permit and PR proof.
5. Complete biometrics if requested.
6. Await IRCC decision and maintain legal status during processing.

Processing Time

Processing times for BOWP applications vary depending on IRCC workload and applicant profile. In many cases, applicants may continue working under maintained status while awaiting a decision.

Benefits of Bridging Open Work Permit

• Continue working legally in Canada during PR processing
• No need for new LMIA or job-specific employer approval
• Maintain income and employment stability
• Flexibility to work for most employers
• Reduces gap between work permits and PR approval

Common Reasons for Refusal

• PR application not eligible or incomplete
• No Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR)
• Expired or invalid work permit status
• Missing or incorrect documentation
• Not meeting IRCC eligibility criteria

Difference Between BOWP and Other Work Permits

• BOWP: Open work permit tied to PR application, no employer restriction.
• Employer-Specific Work Permit: Restricted to one employer and job role.
• Post-Graduation Work Permit: For international graduates only.

Why Choose Can Entry Immigration?

At Can Entry Immigration, we provide expert support for Bridging Open Work Permit applications. We ensure proper eligibility assessment, accurate documentation, and timely submission to avoid gaps in work authorization.

Our team also helps clients transition smoothly from temporary status to permanent residency in Canada.

Conclusion

The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is an essential pathway for foreign workers in Canada awaiting permanent residence decisions. It ensures uninterrupted employment and financial stability while maintaining legal status. With expert guidance from Can Entry Immigration, applicants can successfully secure their BOWP and continue their journey toward permanent residency in Canada.