The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is designed to allow foreign nationals who are in Canada to continue working while their permanent residence (PR) applications are being processed. If you’re considering other options like the Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP), this article provides useful insights.

This permit is particularly helpful for those applying under economic immigration programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or other programs such as Labour Market Impact Assessment, and Students Inside Canada. With the BOWP, applicants can maintain their work status in Canada while waiting for their PR decision, avoiding the need for an employer to apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The flexibility provided by the BOWP ensures that both workers and employers can continue contributing to the Canadian economy without unnecessary interruptions.

What Is a Bridging Open Work Permit?

A Bridging Open Work Permit is a temporary permit that allows individuals in Canada to keep working while they wait for a decision on their PR application. The BOWP serves as a bridge between the expiration of their current work permit and the final decision on their PR status. This is particularly beneficial for individuals under the Federal Skilled Worker program. 

This permit is unique because it provides open work privileges, meaning applicants can work for any employer across Canada without being tied to one specific job or employer, unlike closed work permits. This flexibility is particularly useful for applicants who may want to switch jobs or industries while awaiting their PR.

Who Is Eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit?

To be eligible for a BOWP, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be physically present in Canada.
• Hold valid temporary resident status (TR) or be eligible to restore their status.
• Have submitted a PR application under one of the following programs:
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program
  • Canadian Experience Class
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • Quebec Skilled Worker Program
  • Agri-Food Pilot Program
  • Caring for Children Class or Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class (if the application was submitted before June 18, 2019).
• Have passed the completeness check or received a positive eligibility assessment on their PR application.

Bridging Open Work Permit Fee

The fee for applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit is $255 CAD. This includes a $155 processing fee and a $100 open work permit holder fee. Those interested in a Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) can find more information about the associated fees.

In addition, applicants may be required to pay for biometrics, which adds another $85 to the total cost. The biometrics fee covers the collection of fingerprints and a digital photograph.

Can I Work Anywhere in Canada on a Bridging Open Work Permit?

With a Bridging Open Work Permit, applicants generally have the flexibility to work anywhere in Canada for any employer. However, there are certain restrictions for applicants applying under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSW). 

Similarly, applicants in the Students Outside Canada program should be aware of location-specific restrictions. If you are applying under the PNP, your work location must be restricted to the province that nominated you. For QSW applicants, Quebec must be selected as the place of employment.

How Long Is a Bridging Open Work Permit Valid?

A Bridging Open Work Permit is typically valid for one year or until a decision is made on your PR application. If your PR application takes longer to process than expected, you may apply for an extension to continue working in Canada under the same conditions.

Can I Add My Spouse and Dependents on My Bridging Open Work Permit Application?

Yes, spouses or common-law partners of Bridging Open Work Permit holders may be eligible for an open work permit of their own. This process is similar to applying for a Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) for spouses of other work permit holders. For this to happen, certain conditions must be met. 

The BOWP holder must have a valid work permit for at least six months and be employed in an occupation that falls under National Occupation Classification (NOC) Skill Levels 0, A, or B. 

It’s important to note that dependent children of BOWP holders are not eligible for open work permits. Instead, they must apply for a work permit through an LMIA or an LMIA exemption, depending on their specific situation.

How to Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit

Applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit follows a straightforward process:

1. Confirm your eligibility.
2. Gather your documents, such as proof of your current work permit, confirmation of your PR application, and identification.
3. Complete the application form by selecting “Open Work Permit” as the type of work permit.
4. Pay the required fees, including the work permit processing fee and the open work permit holder fee.
5. Submit your application online through the IRCC website, unless you are applying on paper due to specific circumstances.
6. If needed, pay the biometrics fee and book an appointment to provide your biometrics.

When Can I Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit?

You can apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit as soon as you have submitted a PR application and meet the eligibility criteria. For other work permits, such as those under the Students Inside Canada category, similar timing requirements may apply. Make sure to apply before your current work permit expires to maintain your legal status in Canada. Applying in advance ensures you can continue working while waiting for a decision on both your BOWP and PR applications.

Bridging Open Work Permit Document Checklist

When applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you will need to provide:

• A copy of your current work permit.
• Proof of submission of your PR application (e.g., confirmation email or a receipt).
• Completed application forms.
• Required fees, including the open work permit holder fee and work permit processing fee.
• Biometrics (if applicable).
• Additional supporting documents, such as proof of status restoration (if required).

Can I Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit From Quebec?

Yes, applicants under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program can apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit. However, unlike other provinces, the place of employment must be listed as Quebec, and you will be restricted to working within that province. This is also outlined in articles discussing the Labour Market Impact Assessment and its specifics for different regions. This means you won’t have the freedom to move to other provinces under the BOWP if you are applying through Quebec.

Bridging Open Work Permit Processing Time

The processing time for a Bridging Open Work Permit can vary depending on whether you apply online or by paper, as well as your current location within Canada. Processing times for other permits, like the Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP), can also vary and are discussed in detail elsewhere. On average, processing can take a few weeks to several months. Online applications tend to be processed faster, and they allow you to track your application’s progress more easily. You can also submit additional documents online if needed, which helps speed up the process.

Can I Leave Canada on a Bridging Open Work Permit?

Yes, you can leave Canada while holding a Bridging Open Work Permit. However, you need to make sure you have a valid visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to return. While holding a BOWP, re-entry to Canada is not guaranteed, and border officers may ask for proof of your PR application and the validity of your work permit.

Can I Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit From Outside of Canada?

The Bridging Open Work Permit is generally intended for applicants who are physically present in Canada at the time of application. However, if you leave Canada after applying for your BOWP, you can still re-enter the country, provided you meet the visa or eTA requirements.

Why Was My Bridging Open Work Permit Rejected?

A Bridging Open Work Permit may be rejected for several reasons, including incomplete applications, failure to meet eligibility requirements, or issues with maintaining valid status in Canada. This is similar to rejections under the Federal Skilled Worker program where eligibility is strictly evaluated. It’s important to carefully review all application instructions and documents to ensure your application is complete before submission.

Can I Apply for PR on a Bridging Open Work Permit?

Yes, the Bridging Open Work Permit is specifically designed for individuals who have already submitted their PR application. You cannot apply for a BOWP without first submitting a PR application under one of the eligible economic immigration programs.

What Happens if My Work Permit Expires While My PR Application Is Processing?

If your work permit expires while your PR application is still being processed, you can apply to restore your status or extend your work permit. Articles like Work Permits detail the steps needed in such situations. If you applied for the BOWP before your work permit expired, you can continue working under implied status until a decision is made.

Can I Work While Waiting for a Bridging Open Work Permit?

Yes, if you applied for a Bridging Open Work Permit before your current work permit expired, you can continue working under the same conditions as your previous permit while waiting for a decision on your BOWP application.

Wondering if a Bridging Open Work Permit is right for you? SEP Immigration is here to help! Contact us today, and we’ll guide you through the process to ensure you can keep working while awaiting your permanent residence decision.