What is a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?
A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is a special type of work permit that allows individuals who have applied for permanent residence in Canada to continue working while their application is being processed. This permit ensures that applicants can maintain their employment status without interruption, even if their current work permit expires. It provides a crucial bridge for those in transition from temporary to permanent resident status.
Bridging Open Work Permit Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you must meet the following criteria:
Residency: You must live in Canada and intend to live outside Quebec when you apply.
You can leave Canada while your application is processed.
However, if you leave Canada after your work permit expires, you cannot work until your new application is approved.
Work Permit Status: You must either have a valid work permit, have an expired work permit but maintained your status as a worker, or be eligible to restore your status and get a work permit.
Principal Applicant: You must be the principal applicant on your permanent residence application (PR).
Application Completeness: You must have submitted a complete application for PR and passed the completeness check.
Acknowledgment of Receipt: You must have received your acknowledgment of receipt letter from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Bridging Open Work Permit for Express Entry Applicants and Non-Express Entry Applicants
If you applied for PR through Express Entry application under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades Program, you can apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit. The same applies to non-Express Entry applicants under other eligible economic immigration programs. The key is to ensure that you have met all the eligibility requirements and received your acknowledgment of receipt letter.
Bridging Open Work Permit for PNP Applicants
Applicants under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) can also apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit, whether they applied online through Express Entry or not. To be eligible, you must meet the general requirements, including living in Canada, having a valid or maintained work permit status, being the principal applicant on your PR application, and having no employment restrictions as a condition of your nomination.
Bridging Open Work Permit for Home Child-Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot Applicants
If you applied under the Home Child Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot, you can apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit if you meet the following criteria:
Live in Canada (and intend to live outside Quebec) at the time you apply.
Be approved in principle for permanent residence, which is a positive eligibility assessment.
Prove you have 12 months of qualifying work experience.
Have a valid work permit, have applied to extend your work permit before your original permit expired, or be eligible to restore your status and get a valid work permit.
Spouses and Common Law Partners of BOWP Applicants
Spouse and common-law partner of Bridging Open Work Permit applicants may also be eligible for an open work permit. This provision ensures that the entire family can maintain their status and employment in Canada while the principal applicant’s PR application is being processed.
Application Process and Fees
How to Apply for a BOWP
To apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you need to:
Complete the appropriate application forms.
Gather all required supporting documents.
Pay the applicable government fees, including the work permit processing fee.
Submit your application, you may apply online through the IRCC portal.
Bridging Open Work Permit Document Checklist
Ensure you have the following documents:
Completed application forms
Proof of your current status in Canada
Acknowledgment of receipt letter for your permanent residence application
Proof of payment for the processing fee
Any additional documents requested by IRCC
Bridging Open Work Permit Processing Fee and Other Costs
The processing fee for a BOWP is a mandatory payment. Additional costs may include fees for obtaining supporting documents, translations, and legal assistance if needed. It's essential to check the latest fee structure on the IRCC website.
BOWP Processing Time and Validity
How Long is a BOWP Valid?
A BOWP is typically valid until a decision is made on your permanent residence application. The validity period ensures that you can continue working without interruption while awaiting the final decision.
Processing Time for a BOWP Application
Processing times for BOWP applications can vary. Generally, it takes several weeks to a few months, depending on the volume of applications and other factors. Checking the current processing times on the IRCC website is advisable.
Working in Canada on a BOWP
Work Location and Job Restrictions on a BOWP
A BOWP allows you to work for any employer in Canada without specific job or location restrictions. This flexibility is crucial for maintaining employment and stability during the transition period to permanent residence.
Traveling on a BOWP
You can travel outside Canada while your BOWP application is processed. However, ensure that you meet re-entry requirements and understand that you cannot work if your permit expires while you are outside Canada and the new application is still pending.
What Happens If My Work Permit Expires While My PR Application is Processing?
If your work permit expires while your permanent residence application is processing, and you have applied for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you will maintain your status and can continue working until a decision is made on your BOWP application.
How AKM Can Help With Bridging Open Work Permit
At AKM Law, we understand the complexities of applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit. Our team of experienced immigration lawyers can guide you through the entire process, ensuring that your application is complete and accurate. We provide personalized support, helping you gather the necessary documents and navigate the legal requirements. Contact us today for professional assistance with your BOWP application and ensure a smooth transition towards your Canadian permanent residence.
