What Is a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?
A Bridging Open Work Permit is a type of open work permit available to certain foreign nationals in Canada who have submitted a permanent residence application under specific economic immigration programs. As the name suggests, it serves as a “bridge” between the expiry of a current work permit and the final decision on a PR application.
Unlike employer-specific work permits, a BOWP allows holders to work for any employer across most occupations in Canada (with some exceptions), giving them flexibility and stability while awaiting permanent status.
Who Is Eligible for a BOWP?
To apply for a BOWP, you must meet all the following criteria:
- You are in Canada with valid temporary resident status.
- You have applied for permanent residence under one of the following economic immigration streams:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) (for certain applicants)
- Agri-Food Pilot
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program (under specific circumstances)
- Home Child-Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot
- You have received an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), confirming your PR application is complete and being processed.
- Your current work permit is set to expire within four months, or has already expired but you’re still within the restoration period.
How to Apply
You can apply for a BOWP online through your IRCC secure account. The process generally includes:
- Gathering documents: This may include a copy of your AOR, proof of your current status, and job-related information (if relevant).
- Filling out the work permit application: Choose “Open Work Permit” as the type.
- Paying the fees: A BOWP requires payment for both the work permit processing fee and the open work permit holder fee (totaling CAD $255 as of 2025).
- Submitting the application: Ensure everything is submitted before your current permit expires—or within the 90-day restoration window if it already has.
Once submitted, you may be eligible to maintain your status and continue working under the same conditions as your current work permit while IRCC processes the BOWP application.
Why the BOWP Matters
- Job continuity: Workers can keep their jobs, maintain income, and support their families.
- No employer restrictions: An open permit provides the freedom to change jobs or employers without going through a new Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process.
- Stability during the wait: PR applications can take months. The BOWP gives applicants peace of mind while their future in Canada is decided.
Tips for a Smooth Process
- Apply early: Don’t wait until your current work permit has expired. Aim to apply within the 4-month window before expiry.
- Keep track of your AOR: The AOR is essential for your BOWP application. Make sure you receive and save a copy.
- Understand your PR program: Eligibility rules for BOWPs vary slightly depending on your PR stream. Check IRCC’s official website or consult a legal professional if you’re unsure.
