BRIDGING OPEN WORK PERMITS OVERVIEW.
A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is a type of work permit that allows temporary residents in Canada to continue working while they wait for the results of their permanent residence application.
It bridges the gap between the expiry of your current work permit and the final decision on your permanent residence application.
Thus, it prevents you from losing your job and having to leave Canada while waiting for your application to be processed.
If you’re unsure of how to begin your immigration journey, our team offers a consultation service where we can evaluate your unique circumstances and recommend the most suitable immigration options for you. Our focus on personalized solutions ensures that every client receives the highest level of service and support throughout their immigration journey.
Key Details about Bridging Open Work Permits:
Can you work while waiting for your BOWP?
Who can apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit?
Not everyone who has applied for permanent residence in Canada is eligible for a BOWP. The following conditions must be met in order to qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit:
-
You must have a valid work permit that will expire within 4 months;
-
You must have applied for permanent residence under one of the eligible permanent residence programs;
-
You must have received a positive eligibility decision on your permanent residence application;
-
You must be currently residing in Canada.
It is important to note that individuals who have applied for permanent residence under the Spousal/Common-Law Partner In-Canada Class are not eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit.
When can you apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit?
You can only apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit once you have submitted your permanent residence application and received a positive eligibility assessment.
If your current work permit expires before the decision on your permanent residence application is made, you can apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit to bridge the gap.
Can you work while waiting for your Bridging Open Work Permit?
Yes, you are allowed to continue working while your Bridging Open Work Permit application is being processed.
However, if your current work permit expires before your Bridging Open Work Permit is approved, you will not be able to work until the BOWP is issued.
It's recommended to apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit at least 30 days before your current work permit expires to avoid any gaps in employment.
Eligible Permanent Residence Programs for Bridging Open Work Permit.
In order to be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you must have applied for permanent residence under one of the following programs:
-
Permanent residence using Express Entry
-
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
-
Quebec skilled workers
-
Home Child-Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot
-
Caring for children class or caring for people with high medical needs class
-
Agri-Food Pilot
Processing Time of Bridging Open Work Permit.
The processing time for a Bridging Open Work Permit can vary depending on your individual circumstances and the volume of applications being processed by IRCC.
However, in most cases, it takes approximately 4-5 months for a Bridging Open Work Permit to be approved.
It's important to plan accordingly and apply for your Bridging Open Work Permit well before your current work permit expires.
Extension of Bridging Open Work Permit.
If your permanent residence application is still pending but your Bridging Open Work Permit is expiring soon, you may be eligible to extend it.
You can apply for a 12-month extension as long as you still meet all the eligibility criteria and have not received a final decision on your permanent residence application.
EXPLORE NEWS & INSIGHTS.
CONTACT US.
