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Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) in Canada: Eligibility & Application Process: Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWPs) allow foreign nationals to continue working in Canada while awaiting a decision on their permanent residence (PR) application. A BOWP is a type of Open Work Permit (OWP), meaning it is not tied to a specific employer or job. Eligible applicants can receive a BOWP for up to two years, with possible extensions based on an immigration officer’s discretion. Understanding the eligibility criteria and application process is crucial for work permit holders in Canada.

Who is Eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit?

A foreign worker can apply for a BOWP if they meet the following conditions:

• They are currently residing in Canada on temporary resident status.
• They have applied for permanent residence as a principal applicant under one of the following economic immigration programs:
  • Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry)
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (Express Entry)
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (Express Entry)
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) (if no employer restrictions)
  • Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSW)
  • Agri-Food Pilot
  • Home Child-Care Provider or Home Support Worker Pilot
• They meet one of these valid status requirements:
  • Hold a valid work permit
  • Have an expired permit but are on maintained status
  • Are eligible to restore temporary resident status with authorization to work
• They have an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter for their PR application.

Conditions on Employment Location

While BOWPs allow flexibility in employment, specific restrictions apply in some cases:

• PNP applicants must work in the nominating province or territory.
• QSW applicants must select Quebec as their employment location.

How to Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit?

Applying for a BOWP is typically done online through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The application process includes the following steps:

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

A BOWP remains valid until one of the following occurs:

• A decision is reached on the PR application.
• The BOWP expires (maximum validity of 24 months) or the applicant’s passport expires.

If a BOWP expires before PR processing is complete, IRCC may issue an extension of up to 12 months.

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Options If a Work Permit Expires Before Applying for a BOWP

To apply for a BOWP, a foreign national must have a valid work permit, maintained status, or be eligible for status restoration. If their work permit has expired and they have not applied for a BOWP, they can consider these options:

• Apply for a visitor record to remain in Canada as a temporary resident without working.
• Leave Canada and await the PR application outcome.
• Apply for a work permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) with an employer willing to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Can Family Members Apply for an Open Work Permit?

Family members of BOWP holders may also be eligible for an Open Work Permit (OWP) if specific conditions are met.

Principal Applicant Requirements:

• Must be living and working in Canada.
• Hold a valid work permit for at least six months after their family member’s OWP application.
• Applied for PR under an economic class pathway.
• Meet one of these employment requirements:
  • Work in NOC TEER 0 or 1 occupations.
  • Work in select high-skilled NOC TEER 2 or 3 occupations.

Family Member Requirements:

• Must meet general work permit eligibility requirements.
• Must have valid temporary resident status or be eligible for restoration.
• Must be a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child of the principal applicant.

Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWPs) provide an essential pathway for temporary residents in Canada to continue working while awaiting PR decisions. By meeting eligibility requirements and following the proper application process, foreign workers can ensure uninterrupted employment. Family members may also qualify for OWPs, enhancing stability for applicants and their loved ones. Staying informed about application requirements and processing timelines is crucial for securing a BOWP successfully.