The Canada bridging open work permit (BOWP) enables a worker in Canada, to continue working while his or her application for permanent residence is being processed.
In-Canada applicants who have applied for permanent residence under one of the eligible economic immigration programs, may be considered for a bridging open work permit. Eligible programs include:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Canadian Experience Class
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Agri-Food Pilot Program
- Home Child-Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot
A foreign worker who holds a valid work permit that is due to expire within four months, and who has applied for permanent residence under one of the economic immigration programs may continue to work until a decision is made on his or her application for permanent residence.
Eligibility Requirements
Canadian Experience Class
Federal Skilled Worker Program
Federal Skilled Trades Program
To be eligible for a BOWP, you must:
- Live in Canada (Quebec not included)
- Have a valid work permit that expires in 4 months or less
- Be the principal applicant on your permanent residence application
- Have submitted a complete application for permanent residence
- Have your acknowledgement of receipt letter
Provincial Nominee Program
To be eligible for a BOWP, you must:
- Live in Canada (Quebec not included)
- Have a valid work permit that expires in 4 months or less
- Be the principal applicant on your permanent residence application
- Have no employment restrictions as a condition of your nomination
- Have submitted a complete application for permanent residence
- Have your acknowledgement of receipt letter
Agri-Food Pilot
To be eligible for a BOWP, you must
- Live in Canada (outside Quebec)
- Have a valid work permit that expires in 4 months or less
- Be the principal applicant on your permanent residence application
- Be approved in principle for permanent residence
Home Child Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot
To be eligible for a BOWP, you must
- Live in Canada (Quebec not included)
- Be approved in principle for permanent residence
- Prove you have 24 months of qualifying work experience
- Meet 1 of the following criteria:
- Have a valid work permit
- Have applied to extend your work permit before your original permit expired
- Be eligible to restore your status and get a work permit