Bridging Open Work Permit Canada

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​Are you an international worker in Canada who has applied for permanent residence and wants to continue working while awaiting the decision? The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is designed specifically to bridge the gap between the expiry of your current work permit and the finalization of your permanent residence application. In this article, we will delve into the details of the Bridging Open Work Permit, its eligibility criteria, benefits, application process, and answer some frequently asked questions. Let's explore how this work permit can provide you with the peace of mind and flexibility you need during the transition period.

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As an individual pursuing permanent residence in Canada, the uncertainty surrounding your work permit status can be overwhelming. The Bridging Open Work Permit aims to alleviate this concern by allowing eligible applicants to extend their work permits, ensuring continuity of employment and stability during the application process. This unique permit not only provides individuals with the opportunity to remain in Canada but also enables them to access essential services and engage in a seamless job search.

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What is a Bridging Open Work Permit?

 

A Bridging Open Work Permit is a temporary work permit that allows individuals who have applied for permanent residence to continue working while awaiting a decision on their application. It is a valuable tool for foreign nationals in Canada, ensuring they can maintain their employment and livelihoods during the transition period. This work permit is a testament to Canada's commitment to supporting the integration of skilled workers into its labor market and fostering a diverse and inclusive society.

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Eligibility Criteria for a Bridging Open Work Permit

 

To be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you must fulfill certain criteria outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These criteria include:

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1. Completing an application for permanent residence

 

To qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you must have already submitted a complete application for permanent residence under an eligible immigration program. This step demonstrates your intent to establish a long-term presence in Canada and contribute to its social and economic fabric.

 

2. Possessing a valid temporary status in Canada

 

You must hold a valid temporary status in Canada at the time of applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit. This requirement ensures that individuals who are already authorized to work in Canada can seamlessly transition to a new work permit while their permanent residence application is being processed.

 

3. Demonstrating intention to reside in a province or territory

 

You must provide evidence of your intention to reside in a specific province or territory in Canada while applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit. This requirement is crucial as it enables authorities to process your application accurately and in accordance with the guidelines of the respective province or territory.

 

4. Meeting the minimum requirements

 

To be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you must meet the minimum requirements of the work permit category you are currently under. This ensures that you continue to meet the essential criteria related to your occupation, education, language proficiency, and other relevant factors.

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General eligibility*

 

To be eligible for a bridging open work permit (BOWP), foreign nationals must

• currently be in Canada after being authorized to enter as a temporary resident under section 22 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA)

• meet one of the following criteria at the time of submission:

  • have valid temporary resident status and authorization to work as the holder of a valid work permit

  • have maintained status and authorization to work under paragraph 186(u) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) as a result of submitting an application to renew their work permit under subsection R201(1)

  • be eligible to restore their temporary resident status with authorization to work on a work permit

• have submitted an APR as the principal applicant under one of the following classes or pilots:

  • federal skilled worker class (FSWC)

  • Canadian experience class (CEC)

  • federal skilled trades class (FSTC)

  • caring for children class or caring for people with high medical needs class before June 18, 2019

  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) for applicants for whom there are no employer restrictions on nominations

  • Agri-Food Pilot (AFP)

  • Quebec skilled worker class (QSWC)

  • Home Child Care Provider Pilot (HCCPP) or Home Support Worker Pilot (HSWP)**

• have completed one of the following APR stages depending on their class:

  • electronic application for permanent residence (e-APR) submitted under Express Entry has passed the section R10 completeness check. This applies to the following classes:

    • FSWC

    • CEC

    • FSTC

    • PNP (where the applicant is accepted through the provincial or territorial Express Entry stream)

  • APR under the QSWC has passed the section R10 completeness check

  • receipt of a positive eligibility assessment on their non-Express Entry APR submitted by mail or online under one of the following classes or pilots:

    • caring for children

    • caring for people with high medical needs

    • AFP

    • PNP (where the applicant does not qualify for Express Entry)

    • HCCPP or HSWP after completing their qualifying work experience

*Source canada.ca

** Check the recent changes to the Care Giver Program in 2024.

 

Benefits of a Bridging Open Work Permit

 

The Bridging Open Work Permit offers several advantages to individuals who are awaiting a decision on their permanent residence application. Let's explore some of these benefits:

 

1. Continuity of employment

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One of the significant advantages of a Bridging Open Work Permit is the ability to maintain continuous employment. This work permit allows you to remain with your current employer or seek new employment opportunities, thereby ensuring stability and financial security during the transition period.

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2. Access to essential services

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By holding a Bridging Open Work Permit, you have continued access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and social benefits. This provides peace of mind to individuals and their families, as they can access necessary services without disruption.

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3. Flexibility in job search

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A Bridging Open Work Permit grants you the flexibility to explore different job opportunities and consider diverse career paths while awaiting your permanent residence decision. You can adapt to changing labor market conditions and seize employment prospects that align with your skills and aspirations.

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How to Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit

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Applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit involves several steps and requires careful attention to detail. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process:

 

1. Gather required documents

 

Before applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit, gather all the necessary documents as specified by IRCC. These typically include a copy of your application for permanent residence, a valid passport, proof of valid temporary status in Canada, and any additional documents required based on your specific situation.

 

2. Complete the application form

 

Fill out the application form for the Bridging Open Work Permit accurately, providing all the required information. Ensure that you include details of your permanent residence application, your current work permit information, and any relevant supporting documentation.

 

3. Pay the application fees

 

Pay the applicable fees for the Bridging Open Work Permit application. The fees may vary based on factors such as the type of work permit you currently hold and the processing time required.

 

4. Submit the application

 

Once you have gathered all the required documents, completed the application form, and paid the fees, submit your application for a Bridging Open Work Permit. Ensure that you double-check all the information provided and include any additional supporting documents as needed.

 

Who can apply for Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?

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To qualify, you must have applied for permanent residency under the FSW (Federal Skilled Worker) Program, CEC (Canadian Experience Class), FST (Federal Skilled Trades) Program, Provincial Nominee Program, or one of the two caregivers’ classes. Under the Home Child Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot - IRCC may accept applications if they have 24 months or more work experience in Canada and have a valid work permit at the time of submitting the application.

 

Who else can qualify?

• People who are in Canada and have already applied under AFP (Agri-Food Pilot) or Start-up Visa (conditions apply).

• People who reside in Canada with valid temporary resident status

• People who meet one of the following criteria:

  • hold a valid work permit with valid temporary resident status

  • have submitted to renew their work permit and are on maintained status in Canada

  • are eligible to restore their temporary resident status with authorization to work on a work permit

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You must also:

• currently be in Canada maintaining a legal status, and

• have a valid Work Permit that will expire in less than four months

 

Have completed one of the following APR stages depending on the program they are applying to:

• The Express Entry electronic application for permanent residence has passed the completeness check required by Section 10 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.

• Section 10 of the IRPR completeness check was passed by APR under the Quebec skilled worker programs.

• Positive eligibility assessment on their APR submitted by mail or online under the Caring for Children Class, Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class, Agri-Food Pilot, or non-Express Entry PNP stream.

 

Which immigration programs are eligible for the Bridging Open Work Permit?

 

The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is available to individuals who have applied for permanent residence under specific eligible immigration programs in Canada. The eligible immigration programs for the BOWP include:

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1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): This program is for skilled workers who have foreign work experience and meet the criteria for education, language proficiency, and other factors.

2. Canadian Experience Class (CEC): The CEC is designed for individuals with Canadian work experience, including those who have worked on a valid work permit.

3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): This program is intended for individuals with experience in skilled manual trades who meet the requirements for language proficiency, work experience, and other factors.

 

Can I extend my Bridging Open Work Permit if my permanent residence application is still pending?

 

In most cases, you cannot extend your Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) if your permanent residence application is still pending. The BOWP is typically valid until a decision is made on your permanent residence application. Once a decision is reached, and if your permanent residence application is approved, you would transition to the appropriate work permit or permanent resident status.

 

How long does the Bridging Open Work Permit allow me to work in Canada?

 

The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) allows you to work in Canada typically until a decision is made on your permanent residence application. The specific duration of the BOWP will vary depending on how long it takes for a decision to be reached on your application.

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It's important to note that the processing times for permanent residence applications can vary, and there is no fixed timeline for a decision. It is advisable to regularly check the status of your application and stay informed about any updates or changes to processing times.

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Once a decision is made on your permanent residence application, your work status may transition to the appropriate work permit or permanent resident status. It's recommended to consult the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or seek advice from a qualified immigration professional for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the duration of the BOWP and your specific case.