Canada’s immigration policies offer several flexible options for individuals seeking to transition from temporary to permanent residency. One such pathway is the Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). The BOWP allows individuals who are already in Canada and have applied for permanent residence to continue working while they await a final decision on their application. This provision is instrumental in retaining skilled workers in the Canadian labor market and avoiding employment disruptions due to expiring work permits.
This in-depth guide explores the BOWP in detail: who is eligible, how to apply, key requirements, benefits, potential pitfalls, and how this permit contributes to Canada’s immigration ecosystem.
What is a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?
The Bridging Open Work Permit is a type of open work permit granted to foreign nationals who have applied for permanent residence and hold valid temporary resident status in Canada. It “bridges” the gap between the expiration of their temporary work permit and the finalization of their permanent residence application.
This ensures that foreign workers do not face a lapse in employment or legal status while awaiting immigration decisions.
Key Features of the BOWP:
- Open Work Permit: Holders are not tied to a specific employer or job.
- Eligibility Based on PR Application: Only available to those who have submitted a complete application for permanent residence under specific programs.
- Legal Continuity: Allows continued residence and employment in Canada.
Who is Eligible for the BOWP?
To qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit, applicants must meet the following conditions:
1. Submitted a PR Application Under an Eligible Program
Applicants must have applied under one of the following permanent residence programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) (if applied via Express Entry)
- Agri-Food Immigration Pilot
2. Valid Temporary Resident Status
Applicants must:
- Be currently in Canada
- Hold a valid work permit (or be under implied status)
3. Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR)
An AOR confirms that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has received a complete PR application. The BOWP application can only proceed once this acknowledgment is issued.
How to Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Wait for AOR
Before applying for the BOWP, ensure you receive your Acknowledgment of Receipt from IRCC. It acts as proof that your application for permanent residence is complete and in processing.
Step 2: Apply Online Through IRCC Portal
- Visit the IRCC official website
- Log into your IRCC account or create one
- Choose “Apply to come to Canada” and follow the prompts to apply for a work permit
Step 3: Documentation Required
- A copy of your AOR
- Current work permit
- Passport copy (valid for entire period requested)
- Digital photo
- Proof of payment
Step 4: Pay Fees
- Application Fee: CAD $155
- Open Work Permit Holder Fee: CAD $100
Processing Time and What to Expect
The average processing time for BOWPs is 2 to 4 months, but timelines can vary based on IRCC’s workload and completeness of the application.
While the BOWP is being processed, you may be eligible to work under implied status if your existing work permit expires, and you’ve applied for a BOWP before its expiry.
Benefits of a Bridging Open Work Permit
1. Continuity of Employment
BOWPs help foreign nationals maintain uninterrupted work while awaiting permanent residency decisions, easing pressure on both applicants and employers.
2. Flexibility
As an open work permit, the BOWP offers freedom to change employers, industries, or locations within Canada.
3. Family Member Inclusion
Spouses and dependent children can apply for open work or study permits alongside the BOWP application, enhancing family stability.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
1. Misinterpreting Eligibility
Ensure your PR application falls under eligible categories and that your current permit hasn’t expired.
Tip: Use the IRCC’s Come to Canada Tool to verify eligibility.
2. Incomplete Applications
Missing documentation is a major cause of delays or denials.
Tip: Double-check the IRCC checklist and upload high-quality scanned documents.
3. Biometrics and Background Checks
Even for BOWP, applicants may be required to submit biometrics and police certificates.
Tip: Submit these documents early or have them ready to expedite processing.
Case Study: A Tech Worker’s Transition
Background:
An Indian software engineer working in Toronto under a closed work permit received a job offer in a different province. He submitted his PR application through Express Entry under the CEC.
Challenge:
His work permit was about to expire before a decision was expected on his PR application.
Solution:
He applied for a Bridging Open Work Permit as soon as he received his AOR.
Outcome:
He received a BOWP within 60 days and transitioned to a new role with a different company, enabling career progression while awaiting PR status.
How BOWP Contributes to Canada’s Immigration Goals
Canada’s immigration strategy focuses on retaining skilled foreign nationals already contributing to its economy. The BOWP supports this by:
- Minimizing employment gaps
- Supporting employer retention strategies
- Encouraging long-term settlement
It also enhances Canada’s global appeal by showing flexibility and support for immigrants committed to building a future in Canada.
BOWP vs Other Work Permits
| Feature | BOWP | Employer-Specific Permit | Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Job Flexibility | High | Low | Medium |
| Eligibility | PR applicants | Job offer needed | Recent graduates |
| Duration | Up to 12 months | Varies | Up to 3 years |
| Family Inclusion | Yes | Varies | Yes |
Future Outlook for the BOWP
As Canada seeks to attract and retain global talent, programs like the BOWP are likely to remain integral. Recent enhancements in digital processing, expansion of eligible PR streams, and automation tools like the IRCC’s new PR Tracker demonstrate ongoing investment in streamlining immigration processes.
Additionally, increasing demand for healthcare professionals, engineers, and IT specialists will continue to drive the need for flexible permits like BOWP.
Conclusion
The Bridging Open Work Permit represents a crucial bridge for skilled workers transitioning to permanent residency in Canada. It minimizes disruptions, enhances labor market participation, and provides much-needed stability for foreign nationals and their families.
Whether you’re a professional awaiting permanent residency approval or an employer supporting an international hire, the BOWP is a powerful tool in Canada’s immigration framework.
- IRCC – Bridging Open Work Permit
- Express Entry Overview
- IRCC Document Checklist
- Canada Work Permit Processing Times
Feranmi Nureni 
Fola Davies