Secure a Bridging Open Work Permit For Canada

The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is essential for foreign nationals in Canada who are working and awaiting Canadian permanent residency. It allows you to continue working legally while your Canadian permanent residency application is processed. This permit ensures that you do not face employment gaps due to an expiring work permit. By providing job security, the BOWP helps maintain financial stability during the transition to Canadian permanent residency.

This guide goes into the various aspects of the BOWP, outlining eligibility criteria, application procedures, and essential considerations.

Can You Work in Canada?

What is a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?

The BOWP is a unique open work permit designed for Canadian permanent residency applicants whose existing work permits are nearing expiry under specific eligible programs. Unique from employer-tied permits, the BOWP empowers holders with unrestricted employment across Canada, providing critical flexibility during the often lengthy PR processing period. This freedom significantly enhances stability, allowing individuals to pursue diverse job opportunities without the constraints of a single Canadian employer.

How Can I Secure a Bridging Open Work Permit For Canada?

The BOWP is a vital tool for those awaiting the outcome of their Canadian permanent residency application, allowing them to maintain legal working status in the country. This guide will provide a clear overview of the eligibility requirements and the application process.

If You Applied For Canadian Permanent Residency Using Express Entry

Securing a BOWP under Express Entry demands strict adherence to IRCC guidelines. Eligibility depends on holding a valid or recently expired work permit, maintaining legal status, and possessing an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) for a complete permanent residence application. You must reside outside Quebec during the application process, though temporary departures are permissible, albeit with work limitations until BOWP approval.

You must be the principal applicant under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), or Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). An AOR confirming IRCC's receipt of the PR application is crucial. Submitting an Express Entry profile differs from a complete PR application. To avoid Canadian work permit expiry and maintain status, you should extend existing permits, potentially requiring a new Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or Canadian employer offer.

The BOWP application necessitates careful documentation, including the AOR and documents outlined in the IRCC checklist. Online submission is preferred, with the AOR uploaded in the “Client information” field. You must select "Open work permit" and pay associated fees. IRCC data highlights the importance of timely and accurate applications to prevent processing delays. Research shows that maintaining legal work status during the PR process significantly improves successful integration outcomes.

If You Applied For the Provincial Nominee Program

For PNP applicants awaiting Canadian permanent residency, a BOWP offers vital continuity in employment. Here is an outline of the specific requirements and application process designed for PNP nominees, ensuring a smooth transition while your final application is processed.

Applied Online Via Express Entry

To secure a BOWP under PNP via Express Entry, you must reside in Canada (excluding Quebec), possess a valid/recently expired Canadian work permit, and maintain legal status. Eligibility requires you to be the principal applicant with no nomination-related employment restrictions and have an AOR for a complete PR application.

Temporary departures are permitted, but working without a valid permit post-expiry is prohibited. You must understand that a PNP nomination cannot impose employment constraints. Extensions, potentially requiring a new LMIA, are vital to avoid work permit expiry. The BOWP application requires the nomination letter, AOR, and IRCC checklist documents.

Online submission is preferred, with both letters uploaded in the "Client information" field. You must select "Open work permit" and pay the required fees. IRCC data underscores accurate documentation and timely applications. Research confirms that sustained legal work status aids immigrant integration.

Did Not Apply Via Express Entry

To secure a BOWP under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) outside Express Entry, you must reside in Canada (excluding Quebec) and possess a valid or recently expired work permit, maintaining legal status. Eligibility requires being the principal PR applicant with no nomination-related employment restrictions.

If You Applied For the Quebec Skilled Workers

Securing a BOWP as a Quebec skilled worker necessitates specific eligibility criteria distinct from other PR streams. You must reside in Canada, intend to live in Quebec, and hold a valid Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ). You must be the principal PR applicant with a completed PR application, possessing a valid or recently expired work permit while maintaining legal status.

The BOWP application mandates the CSQ, the letter indicating the permanent application number (starting with "E"), and documents listed in the IRCC checklist. Online submission is preferred, with the permanent application number letter uploaded in the "Client information" field. You must respond "yes" to the "approved in principle" question, select "Open work permit," and pay the required fees.

IRCC guidelines emphasize the importance of accurate documentation and adherence to Quebec-specific requirements. Research demonstrates that maintaining legal work status during the PR process is crucial for successful integration, particularly within Quebec's unique immigration framework. Studies also highlight the significance of the CSQ in navigating Quebec's immigration system, indicating its role in facilitating successful settlement and integration for skilled workers in the province.

If You Applied For the Agri-Food Pilot

To qualify for a BOWP under the Agri-Food Pilot, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. You must:

• Reside in Canada and plan to live outside Quebec.
• Hold a valid Canadian work permit or have maintained your worker status despite an expired permit.
• Be eligible to restore your status and obtain a new Canadian work permit.
• Be the principal applicant for Canadian permanent residence.
• Have received an Approval in Principle (AIP) for your permanent residence application, and,
• If you leave Canada while your work permit is being processed, you cannot work until your new permit is approved.

Required Supporting Documents

When applying for a BOWP, you must include all documents in the official checklist. A copy of the Approval in Principle letter confirming your PR application status. Upload the Approval in Principle letter under the “Client Information” field for online applications.

How to Apply for a BOWP?

Follow the steps for extending or changing conditions on your Canadian work permit. When applying:

• Select “Open Work Permit” as the work permit type.
• Pay both the work permit processing fee and the open work permit holder fee.
• Apply online in most cases. If you experience issues, you may submit a paper application.

By meeting these requirements, eligible workers can continue employment while awaiting permanent residency under the Agri-Food Pilot.

Can I Extend my BOWP?

Yes, you can extend your BOWP under specific conditions. If your permanent residence application is still in progress and your initial BOWP expires, you can apply for an extension to maintain your legal working status in Canada. However, you must meet certain eligibility criteria:

• Your PR application must still be being processed.
• You must continue to meet the eligibility requirements for the Agri-Food Pilot or another program that supports BOWP extensions.
• You must submit a new BOWP application before your permit expires.

When applying for an extension, provide updated supporting documents, including proof that your PR application is still in progress. The processing fee for extending a BOWP remains the same as the initial application. You must apply online, following the same steps as the initial BOWP application.

If you face difficulties applying online, you may be eligible to submit a paper application. Keeping your work permit valid allows you to continue working legally in Canada while waiting for a decision on your Canadian permanent residency status.

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FAQs

Can I Apply for a BOWP From Outside Canada?

No, you must be physically present in Canada when you apply for a BOWP. This requirement emphasizes that the BOWP is designed to bridge the gap for those in Canada awaiting their permanent residency decision. Therefore, you cannot apply for this permit outside Canadian borders.

Can I Travel Outside Canada With a BOWP?

Yes, you can travel outside of Canada while your BOWP application is being processed. However, if you travel after your work permit expires, you cannot legally work in Canada until your BOWP is approved. It is essential to ensure you have the correct travel documents to re-enter Canada.

Does a BOWP Guarantee I Will Get a Canadian Permanent Residency?

No, a BOWP does not guarantee that you will receive Canadian permanent residency. The BOWP is a work permit that allows you to maintain legal working status in Canada while your permanent residency application is processed. The outcome of the PR application depends on whether you meet all of the requirements for permanent residence.