Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP) in Canada: A Complete Guide

For many foreign workers in Canada, obtaining permanent residence (PR) is a crucial milestone. However, processing times for PR applications can be lengthy, leaving many individuals uncertain about their employment status. This is where Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP) come into play. BOWPs allow foreign workers to continue working in Canada while awaiting a decision on their PR application. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about BOWPs, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, conditions, and how family members can also benefit.

What is a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?

A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is a type of Open Work Permit (OWP) issued to foreign nationals who have applied for PR and meet specific eligibility criteria. Unlike employer-specific work permits, BOWPs allow holders to work for almost any employer in Canada.

BOWPs are typically issued for a duration of up to two years, and extensions may be granted at the discretion of an immigration officer. This ensures that eligible foreign workers can maintain their employment while awaiting the final decision on their PR application.

Who is Eligible for a BOWP?

A foreign worker may apply for a BOWP if they meet all the following criteria:

1. Residing in Canada on Temporary Resident Status

• The applicant must be physically present in Canada when submitting their application for a BOWP.

2. Applied for Permanent Residence as a Principal Applicant Under an Eligible Program

Eligible economic immigration programs include:

• Express Entry Programs:
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) (Only if the nomination does not have employer restrictions)
• Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSW)
• Agri-Food Pilot
• Home Child-Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot
• Caring for Children Class or Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class (Applications must have been submitted before June 18, 2019)

3. Holding a Valid Work Permit or Eligible for Maintained Status

The applicant must meet at least one of the following status conditions:

• Hold a valid work permit at the time of application.
• Have an expired work permit but still maintain status under a pending work permit renewal application.
• Be eligible to restore their temporary resident status and receive a work permit.

4. Received an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) Letter

The AOR confirms that the PR application has passed an initial completeness check.

5. Completed One of the Following PR Application Stages:

• For Express Entry and QSW applicants: PR application has passed the completeness check under Section 10 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
• For other PR applicants: A positive eligibility assessment has been received.

BOWP Validity and Conditions

How Long is a BOWP Valid?

A BOWP remains valid until:

• A final decision is made on the applicant’s PR application.
• The permit reaches its maximum validity (up to 24 months or until the passport expiry date, whichever is earlier).

What Happens if a BOWP Expires Before PR is Approved?

If a BOWP expires before the PR application is processed, IRCC may issue an extension for up to 12 months at a time.

Work Authorization While Waiting for BOWP Approval

If an applicant’s existing work permit expires while their BOWP application is being processed, they may continue working under maintained status, provided that:

• They applied for a BOWP before their current work permit expired.
• They stay in Canada while waiting for a decision.

However, if they leave Canada after their work permit expires, they cannot resume work until the BOWP is approved.

Applying for a BOWP

How to Apply

Applications for a BOWP are typically submitted online via the IRCC portal. The steps include:

1. Confirm eligibility.
2. Select “Open Work Permit” as the permit type.
3. Complete the required forms.
4. Provide supporting documents as per the checklist.
5. Pay the work permit processing fee and OWP holder fee.
6. Submit the application.

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

If a foreign national does not apply for a BOWP before their work permit expires, they have three options:

1. Apply for a Visitor Record – They can remain in Canada but must stop working.
2. Leave Canada and wait for their PR application decision.
3. Apply for a New Work Permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) – Requires a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from an employer.

Can Family Members Apply for an Open Work Permit?

Family members may be eligible for an Open Work Permit (OWP) if the BOWP holder meets specific employment conditions.

Principal Applicant Eligibility

The BOWP holder must:

• Be living and working in Canada.
• Hold a valid work permit that remains valid for at least six months beyond the OWP application date.
• Be working in a high-skilled occupation classified under NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.

Family Member Eligibility

Eligible family members include:

• Spouse or common-law partner.
• Dependent children (who meet minimum working age requirements in their province or territory).
• Dependent grandchildren.

Conclusion

A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is an essential tool for foreign workers in Canada who are awaiting PR approval. It allows them to maintain employment and financial stability during the waiting period. By ensuring they meet the eligibility criteria and applying on time, foreign workers can continue working legally in Canada while securing their future.

For personalized immigration advice and application assistance, feel free to contact us:

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