How to Stay Employed While Waiting for Permanent Residency in Canada

Canada remains a top destination for skilled workers seeking long-term career opportunities and a stable future. Many foreign nationals apply for permanent residency through various immigration programs, but processing times can take months or even years. The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) serves as a key solution, allowing individuals to continue working while awaiting their residency decision. This article provides an in-depth look at the BOWP, covering eligibility, application procedures, special conditions, and family sponsorship options.

What Is a Bridging Open Work Permit?

A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) allows temporary foreign workers in Canada to continue working while their permanent residency (PR) application is under review. Unlike employer-specific work permits, a BOWP is not tied to one employer, granting flexibility in job choices and career advancement.

Who Can Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit?

To be eligible for a BOWP, applicants must meet specific requirements:

1. Current Residency in Canada – Applicants must be physically present in Canada with valid temporary resident status.
2. Pending PR Application – Candidates must have submitted a PR application under one of the following economic immigration programs:
   
   • Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry)
   • Federal Skilled Worker Program (Express Entry)
   • Federal Skilled Trades Program (Express Entry)
   • Provincial Nominee Program (if there are no employer restrictions)
   • Quebec Skilled Worker Program
   • Agri-Food Pilot
   • Home Child-Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot
   • Caring for Children Class or Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class (if submitted before June 18, 2019)

1. Work Authorization – Applicants must either hold a valid work permit, be on maintained status after submitting a renewal, or be eligible for restoration with authorization to work.
2. Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) – Candidates must have received an official confirmation from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that their PR application is in process.
3. Application Processing Stage – Depending on the immigration pathway, applicants must have passed a completeness check under Section 10 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations or received a positive eligibility assessment.

Conditions and Restrictions for a BOWP

While a BOWP offers job flexibility, some applicants face work location restrictions:

1. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Applicants – Must work within the province or territory that nominated them.
2. Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW) Applicants – Must indicate Quebec as their employment location.

Application Process for a BOWP

Applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit involves several steps. To ensure a smooth application, follow these instructions:

1. Confirm Eligibility – Verify that all requirements are met before proceeding.
2. Create an Online Account – Applications must be submitted through the IRCC online portal.
3. Select the Correct Permit Type – Choose “Open Work Permit” in the work permit application section.
4. Complete the Forms – Fill out the appropriate forms required by IRCC.
5. Submit Supporting Documents – Provide the necessary paperwork, including proof of PR application and current status in Canada.
6. Pay the Fees – The application includes a standard processing fee and an additional open work permit holder fee.
7. Await Processing – The application typically takes between three to four months for IRCC to process.

Maintaining Status While Waiting for a BOWP Decision

Applicants whose work permits expire while waiting for BOWP approval may continue working under maintained status if they applied before their current permit expired. However, if an applicant leaves Canada after their work permit expires, they cannot resume working until they receive BOWP approval.

What If a Work Permit Expires Before Applying for a BOWP?

If an applicant does not apply for a BOWP before their current work permit expires, they lose authorization to work in Canada. In such cases, the following options are available:

1. Apply for a Visitor Record – The applicant and their family can remain in Canada as visitors but cannot engage in employment.
2. Leave Canada – The applicant can wait outside the country until their PR application is finalized.
3. Apply for an Employer-Specific Work Permit – If an employer is willing to complete a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), the applicant can obtain a work permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.

Open Work Permits for Family Members

Family members of BOWP holders may also qualify for an Open Work Permit under certain conditions.

Principal Applicant Requirements:

1. Must be living and working in Canada.
2. Must hold a valid work permit or have received approval for one.
3. Work permit must remain valid for at least six months after the family member applies.
4. Work permit must be issued under an economic class PR pathway.
5. If applying under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program, the applicant must hold a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ).
6. Must work in a high-skilled occupation classified under NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.

Family Member Requirements:

1. Must meet general eligibility conditions for a work permit.
2. Must have a valid temporary resident status, applied for maintained status, or be eligible to restore status.
3. Must be in a genuine relationship with the principal applicant as a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child.

Benefits of a Bridging Open Work Permit

1. Job Security – Allows foreign workers to continue earning income while waiting for PR approval.
2. Flexibility – BOWP holders can work for multiple employers without restrictions.
3. Workforce Contribution – Employers can retain skilled talent without delays.
4. Pathway to Permanent Residency – Ensures continuous employment, which may support additional immigration benefits.

How Road to Future Immigration Can Assist You

Applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit requires careful planning and accurate documentation. Road to Future Immigration provides expert assistance to visa and migration applicants worldwide. Our team helps with work permits, permanent residency applications, and overall immigration strategies to improve approval chances.

Whether you need guidance on eligibility, application submission, or compliance with work permit conditions, we ensure a smooth process. Contact Road to Future Immigration today for professional support. Visit our website for more information.