Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) Canada

The BOWP enables foreign nationals with a valid work permit to work in Canada while their permanent residency is processed.

Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) for Canadian Immigration Applicants

The BOWP allows foreign nationals to continue working in Canada while their permanent residency application is being processed. It is available to those with a valid work permit who have applied for permanent residency.

Canada's Open Work Permits Services

Post-Graduate-Work-Permit-services-graphic-of-graduate-student

Post Graduate Work Permit

GWPs are valid for 8 months to 3 years, offering valuable Canadian work experience.
Spousal-Open-Work-Permit-graphic-of-rings

Spousal Open Work Permit

You may qualify for an open work permit if your spouse works, studies, or sponsors you.
Bridging-Open-Work-Permit-graphic-of-person-crossing-a-bridge

Bridging Open Work Permit

The Bridging Open Work Permit allows foreign nationals to work while awaiting permanent residency approval.
nternational-Experience-Canada-graphic-of-experience

International Experience Canada

The Working Holiday visa offers freedom to work for any employer while traveling in Canada.

Who is eligible for a BOWP?

To qualify, you must:

  • Be in Canada with valid temporary resident status.
  • Meet one of the following:
    • Hold a valid work permit.
    • Have applied to renew your work permit and are on maintained status.
    • Be eligible to restore your status with work authorization.
  • Have applied for permanent residence under certain programs (e.g., Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, etc.).

How much does the processing fee cost?

The fee is $255 CAD, which includes $155 for processing and $100 for the permit holder fee.

Can I work anywhere in Canada with a BOWP?

Generally, yes, but there are exceptions:

  • PNP applicants are restricted to the nomination province.
  • Quebec applicants are restricted to Quebec.

How long is a BOWP valid?

Typically issued for 24 months, with possible extensions for an additional 12 months. It is not issued beyond the validity of the applicant’s passport.

Can my spouse and dependents be included?

Yes, if you are employed in a skilled occupation, your spouse can apply for an open work permit, and dependent children can apply for a visitor record.

How do I apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?

Applications are usually submitted online through your IRCC account, but paper applications are also accepted if needed.

When can I apply for a BOWP?

Express Entry applicants can apply once they receive an Acknowledgement of Receipt letter. Quebec Skilled Worker Class applicants must wait until their application passes the completeness check.

Can I apply from Quebec?

Yes, if you hold a Quebec Acceptance Certificate and meet the AOR requirements.

What is the processing time for a BOWP?

Processing typically takes 3-4 months.

Why might a BOWP be rejected?

Common reasons include an incomplete permanent residency application or failing to meet eligibility requirements.

Why choose our Canada immigration services for your bridging open work permit application?

Our expert immigration lawyers provide personalized guidance to ensure a robust application and enhance your success chances. We customize our support to fit your specific needs, addressing any challenges along the way.

Why Choose HMD Avocats?

We offer high-quality Canadian immigration services, provided by top immigration lawyers specializing in Work Permit for PR Applicants in Canada. With a meticulous, detail-driven approach, we ensure that every case is handled with precision, leaving nothing to chance. This commitment to excellence is the key to our success and our proven track record of successful outcomes for clients. Our services are accessible online from anywhere, at competitive rates, with no hidden fees. We proudly serve clients across Canada and around the world, including in:

  • Montreal
  • Quebec City
  • Sherbrooke
  • Gatineau
  • Laval
  • Longueuil
  • Salaberry-de-Valleyfield
  • Brossard
  • Terrebone
  • Pointe-Claire
  • Boucherville
  • Vaudreuil-Dorion
  • Dollard-des-Ormeaux
  • Trois-Rivières
  • Granby
  • Saguenay
  • Drummondville
  • Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
  • Saint-Jérôme
  • Sorel-Tracy
  • Saint-Eustache
  • Centretown
  • Rideau
  • Orleans
  • West Carleton
  • Brampton
  • Mississauga
  • Ajax
  • Toronto
  • Ottawa

FAQ

Can I apply for a BOWP from outside Canada?

No, you must be residing in Canada to apply.

What if my work permit expires while my PR application is processing?

You may be out of status and need to restore it as a worker in Canada.

Can I work while waiting for a BOWP decision?

Yes, as long as you apply before your current permit expires. If the BOWP is denied, you must stop working immediately.

What if my PR application is refused while on a BOWP?

You may continue working under the BOWP as long as it remains valid and is not revoked.

Team at HMD Avocats

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