Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is an opportunity available to certain temporary residents in Canada who are applying for permanent residence under specific economic immigration programs. It serves to bridge the gap between the expiration of their current work permit and the final decision on their application for permanent residence (PR).

Overview and Objectives

"The BOWP facilitates the continued employment of eligible temporary residents while their application for PR is being processed for open work permit holder fee., supporting their integration into the Canadian labour market."

The BOWP aims to alleviate the potential gap in employment status for eligible applicants awaiting the finalization of their permanent residence application, ensuring continuity in their contribution to the Canadian economy.

Benefits of the Bridging Open Work Permit

"The BOWP allows holders to maintain their employment and legal status in Canada, offering stability during the transition from temporary to permanent residence."

By providing uninterrupted work authorization, the BOWP supports applicants in maintaining their employment and contributing to Canada's workforce, thereby supporting economic growth and stability.

How the Bridging Open Work Permit Works

"Applicants eligible for the BOWP must meet specific criteria related to their application for PR and current work permit status."

Eligible applicants can apply for a BOWP if they have submitted a permanent residence application under certain economic programs and have a valid Canadian work permit that will soon expire. The BOWP extends their work authorization until a decision is made on their permanent residence application, ensuring continuity in their employment and legal status in Canada.

The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is a strategic initiative by the Government of Canada designed to support temporary foreign workers transitioning to permanent residence. BOWP aims to provide stability to applicants while their permanent resident application is processed, ensuring that they can continue to work in Canada without disruption. This program is particularly beneficial for those who have already submitted an application for PR through specific immigration programs and are awaiting a final decision.

Key Components

Purpose

• Allows foreign workers in Canada to continue working if they already applied for permanent residence and are processed, avoiding employment gaps.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must hold a valid work permit expiring within four months or less.
• Must have applied for permanent residence under eligible programs (FSWP, CEC, FSTP, PNP, Agri-Food Pilot, QSWP).
• Must have received an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) for the permanent residence application.

Job Offer

• Not required. Applicants can maintain employment with their current employer or change employers.

Application Process

• Check eligibility, gather necessary documents, submit a complete application online via the IRCC website, and pay the bridging open work permit holder fee.

Work Conditions

• Allows continued employment without job-specific restrictions.
• Permits job flexibility and is valid for most occupations across Canada.

Duration and Conditions

• Typically lasts until a decision is made on the permanent residence application.
• Requires compliance with general work permit conditions.

Settlement Plan

• While not mandatory, applicants should prepare for integration into the local community, including securing housing and essential services while living in Canada.

How BOWP Works

The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) in Canada is a type of work permit that serves as a vital bridge for individuals awaiting a decision on their permanent residence application. This permit allows holders to maintain employment continuity while their application for permanent residency is being processed. Here’s how it works:

Bridge Between Work Permits:

• Purpose: The BOWP acts as a bridge for individuals whose current work permit is set to expire within four months, allowing applications to renew their work permit. However, if you leave Canada temporarily following the expiry of your work permit, you can’t be employed again unless your new application is approved.
• Continuity: Applicants may continue to work in Canada legally while they await a decision on their application for PR.

Eligibility Requirement:

• Current Work Permit: Applicants must hold a valid work permit that is nearing its expiry date (within four months).
• Permanent Residence Application: They must have applied for permanent residence under specific immigration streams recognized by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) such as:
• ‍Express Entry programs:
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Quebec Skilled Worker Class (QSWC)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
• Agri-Food Pilot Program
• Caring for Children Class
• Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class (if the submission to this program was done before June 18, 2019)

Application Process:

• Submission: Applicants apply for the BOWP online through the IRCC portal.
• Documentation: They need to supply evidence of their application for PR and demonstrate the expiry of their current work permit.

Employer Engagement:

• Communication: Depending on circumstances, applicants currently working in Canada may need to notify their employer about their BOWP application to ensure compliance with the Canadian work permit conditions.
• Flexibility: The BOWP allows holders to work for any employer in Canada during this transitional period.

Validity and Conditions:

• Work Authorization: The BOWP grants holders to maintain status and authorization to work on a work permit in Canada until a decision is made on their permanent residence program application.
• Duration: It typically covers the period between the expiry of the current work permit and the final decision on the permanent residence application.

Processing Time:

• Efficiency: IRCC endeavors to process BOWP applications swiftly to minimize disruptions in employment for applicants.
• Support: This expedited processing supports individuals in maintaining their rights and work status in Canada.

Transition to Permanent Residence:

• Outcome: Upon approval of their application for PR, individuals become eligible for permanent resident status.
• Work Permit No Longer Required: Once approved, they no longer need to obtain a work permit to work in Canada, transitioning seamlessly to permanent residency.

Compliance and Regulations:

• Adherence: Applicants must adhere to all federal regulations and conditions throughout the BOWP process to obtain positive eligibility assessments and maintain their legal status in Canada.

Benefits of the Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) in Canada serves as a crucial support mechanism for temporary residents transitioning to permanent residency, ensuring continuity in employment and facilitating integration into Canadian society.

Continuity of Employment: The BOWP allows individuals with an expired work permit and a pending application for permanent residency to continue working in Canada, making them open work permit holders. This ensures they can keep their job and contribute to the Canadian economy while their PR application is processed.

Support for Permanent Residency Applicants: It bridges the gap between temporary status and permanent residency, providing legal authorization to work during the transition period.

Flexibility in Job Opportunities: BOWP holders are not restricted to their initial job offer. They can seek employment elsewhere, facilitating integration into the Canadian labour market.

Efficient Application Process: The BOWP application is processed quickly compared to other work permits, supporting timely workforce continuity for applicants awaiting their PR decision.

Inclusive Eligibility Criteria: Eligibility is based on having a pending application under specific economic immigration programs, ensuring access for skilled workers and graduates contributing to Canada's economy.

Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: Successfully transitioning through the BOWP can lead to permanent residency and eventual Canadian citizenship, offering long-term stability and integration into Canadian society.

Support for Employers: The BOWP helps employers retain valuable employees during the PR application process, minimizing disruptions in workforce continuity and benefiting canadian work environments.

Contribution to Economic Growth: By facilitating the integration of skilled workers, the BOWP supports Canada's economic goals, including addressing labor market needs and promoting regional development.

Steps of the BOWP Application

The Bridging Open Work Permit facilitates eligible temporary residents to continue working while their applications for permanent residence are being processed.

Confirm Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria including having a valid temporary resident status, a job offer, and an ongoing application for PR under eligible programs.

Apply for Permanent Residence: Submit your application to IRCC with necessary documents such as proof of job offer, educational credentials, and language test results.

Receive Acknowledgment: Upon submission, obtain an Acknowledgment of Receipt from IRCC confirming your permanent residence application.

Apply for BOWP: Submit your BOWP application including the Acknowledgment of Receipt and proof of current status in Canada.

Processing and Review: IRCC reviews your BOWP application to assess eligibility, ensuring you meet the requirements for continued legal status and be authorized to work in Canada.

Approval and Permit Issuance: Once approved, receive your BOWP enabling you to work while awaiting a decision on your permanent residency.

Validity and Conditions: Your BOWP remains valid until a decision on your permanent residence application is made; comply with any specified conditions.

Transition to Permanent Resident: Upon approval of your permanent residence application, receive confirmation and instructions for becoming a permanent resident of Canada.

Settle and Comply: Fulfill any post-arrival requirements and settle into your new life as a permanent resident in Canada.

Eligibility Requirements for Bridging Open Work Permit Application

BOWP applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and provide essential documents, facilitating their continued employment while awaiting a decision on their permanent residence application.

Eligibility Criteria:

• You must have valid temporary resident status in Canada at the time of application.
• You need to have applied for permanent residence under one of the following eligible programs:
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) (only if your nomination certificate is received before August 14, 2014)
• Your current work permit must be valid for at least four months at the time of BOWP application. This facilitates a smooth transition for those who are submitting an application to renew their work permit.
• You must demonstrate that you are currently employed in Canada by providing a job offer or employment letter.

Documents Required:

• Copy of Acknowledgment of Receipt: This is proof that IRCC has received your application for PR, confirming your status as one of the permanent residence applicants.
• Proof of Current Temporary Status: Such as a copy of your current work permit.
• Job Offer or Employment Letter: This should include details such as job title, duties, salary, and the employer's contact information.
• Proof of Submission of Permanent Residence Application: A copy of your application for PR under CEC, FSWP, or PNP.
• Language Test Results: If required for your permanent residence application (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP for English or TEF, TCF for French).
• Educational Credentials: Copies of transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates relevant to your job.
• Additional Supporting Documents: Depending on your specific situation, additional documents may be required, such as marriage certificates (if applicable), proof of funds (if required), or police certificates (if applicable).

Application Process:

• Apply online through the IRCC website or by paper using the Application to Change Conditions or Extend Your Stay in Canada (IMM 5710).
• Pay the work permit fee.
• Submit all required documents and ensure they are complete and accurate.
• Await processing and a decision from IRCC.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?

A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) allows certain applicants to maintain legal status and continue working in Canada while they await the decision on their application for permanent residence.

Eligibility: Applicants need to be approved in principle for permanent residence application under an eligible immigration program and have valid temporary resident status if they plan to apply for the BOWP.

Benefits: Allows holders to work for any employer in Canada until a decision is made on their permanent residence application.

Application Process: Apply online or on paper, ensuring all eligibility criteria are met and documentation is complete.

The BOWP facilitates continuity in employment and legal status for applicants transitioning to permanent residency in Canada.

What type of Applicants are eligible for a BOWP?

Certain individuals in Canada on valid temporary status who have applied for permanent residence under specified immigration programs are eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP).

Permanent Residence Applicants: Those who have a pending application for permanent residence under one of the eligible programs, such as the Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program, or Provincial Nominee Program.

Individuals with Valid Temporary Resident Status: Individuals who currently possess valid temporary resident status in Canada.

Express Entry Applicants: Applicants through Express Entry must have their Electronic Application for Permanent Residence (eAPR) completed and assessed under Section 10 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR).

Timely Applicants: If applicants apply for the BOWP before their current work permit expires, they ensure compliance with all conditions. If their existing work permit ends or expires before a decision regarding their BOWP application is made, they can stay in Canada and continue working without a valid work permit under implied status until a final decision is issued regarding the BOWP application. However, if their BOWP application is denied, foreign workers must cease working in Canada immediately.

Eligible candidates can bridge their employment authorization while awaiting a decision on their permanent residence application.

How long does it take to apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?

Processing times for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) can vary depending on individual circumstances and the volume of applications received.

Average Processing Time: Typically ranges from a few weeks to several months, influenced by factors like completeness of application and workload at the processing office.

Expedited Processing: Urgent processing may be available in certain situations, such as the impending expiration of a current work permit or job offer requirements.

Communication: Updates on application status can be monitored through online tools or by contacting Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Applicants should plan ahead and apply in advance to ensure continuity in employment and legal status during the transition to permanent residency.

Can family members apply for a Work Permit?

Family members of the principal applicant who have applied for permanent residence in Canada may also be eligible for an open work permit under certain conditions.

Eligibility: Spouses or common-law partners and dependent children may apply for a spousal open work permit if they hold valid temporary status and the principal applicant has applied for permanent residence under an eligible program.

Application Process: Separate applications are required for each family member, ensuring all eligibility criteria are met and documentation is complete.

Employment Authorization: Approved BOWPs allow family members to work for any employer in Canada until a decision is made on their permanent residence application.

The BOWP extends employment opportunities to eligible family members during the transition period to permanent residency in Canada.

Are there any restrictions on the type of employment under a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?

Holdings of a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) are generally unrestricted in terms of employment type and employer location within Canada, providing flexibility for permit holders.

Employment Flexibility: Permit holders can work in any occupation and for any employer throughout Canada.

Duration: Validity aligns with the processing timeline of the associated permanent residence application, usually until a decision is made.

Compliance: Must adhere to all conditions of the BOWP, including maintaining valid temporary status and complying with Canadian laws.

The BOWP allows for broad employment opportunities while ensuring applicants maintain legal status and contribute to the Canadian workforce during their transition to permanent residency. This program provides significant flexibility, including the ability to work in Canada without a work permit, and supporting applicants during their transition period.