A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is an open work permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows eligible foreign nationals already in Canada to keep working while they wait for a decision on their permanent residence (PR) application Canada.ca. Often called a “bridging visa,” it fills the gap between the expiry of an existing work permit and the final PR decision.
Recent IRCC Updates Making BOWP More Accessible
In response to processing delays and to reduce uncertainty for skilled workers, IRCC has:
- Removed the 4‑month expiry rule: As of 2021, applicants no longer had to wait until their current work permit was within four months of expiry to apply for a BOWP Moving2Canada.
- Extended eligibility to Quebec Skilled Worker applicants: Since August 31, 2021, Quebec‑based PR applicants can also apply for a BOWP, provided they hold a valid Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ) and have passed the completeness check Canada.ca.
- Streamlined maintained‑status rules: New guidance allows IRCC to return an unprocessed BOWP if the underlying PR application is withdrawn or refused—this prevents automatic over‑stay and encourages timely status restoration or extension Moving2Canada.
Who Can Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit?
To qualify for a BOWP, you must:
- Be in Canada with valid temporary resident status—either a valid work permit, maintained status (from a timely extension application), or eligibility for status restoration.
- Be the principal applicant on a PR application under one of these streams:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Caring for Children Class
- Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class
- Agri‑Food Pilot
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSW) Canada.ca.
- Have a complete PR application, proven by your Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter. Express Entry and QSW applicants must also pass IRCC’s completeness check Canada.ca.
Also Check: Australian Work VISA July 2025: Application Process and Requirements
How to Apply: Step‑by‑Step Guide
- Select “Open Work Permit” on your IRCC application form.
- Pay the fees:
- Work permit processing fee
- Open work permit holder fee
- Gather supporting documents:
- Copy of your AOR or nomination letter (for PNP)
- Proof of current status (e.g., valid work permit)
- Any additional documents listed on IRCC’s checklist Canada.ca.
- Submit online through your IRCC secure account (paper applications are available if online submission fails).
Tip: Apply before your current permit expires to benefit from maintained status, letting you keep working while IRCC processes your BOWP.
Spousal Open Work Permits Linked to BOWP
Your spouse or common‑law partner can also apply for an open work permit once you obtain your BOWP:
- They must submit a C41 WP application alongside yours if both are in Canada.
- If outside Canada, they should wait until your BOWP is approved before applying.
- Eligibility depends on your NOC skill level (0, A, B) for most streams; Quebec and PNP spousal permits have no occupation restrictions Canada.ca.
Processing Times, Fees and Important Considerations
- Fees: Total CAD 255 (processing + open work permit holder fees).
- Validity: Up to 24 months; may be limited by your PR program (e.g., provincial restrictions).
- Processing time: Generally 3–4 months, but can vary. Check IRCC’s online tool for current estimates.
Note: If your PR application is refused or withdrawn, IRCC may return your BOWP unprocessed. You’ll then need to restore your status or apply for a different permit Moving2Canada.
Conclusion
The Bridging Open Work Permit is an essential lifeline for skilled foreign workers in Canada awaiting permanent residency. Thanks to IRCC’s recent updates, the BOWP is now more flexible—removing arbitrary expiry windows, including Quebec applicants, and clarifying maintained‑status rules. By understanding the eligibility requirements, documentation, and application process, you can ensure uninterrupted work authorization throughout your PR journey.