Overview
Bridging open work permits
A bridging open work permit can let certain economic permanent residence applicants keep working while IRCC decides PR. A profile, nomination or unsubmitted PR plan is not enough.
The PR class must be eligible
BOWPs cover specified Express Entry, PNP, Quebec skilled worker, agri-food and caregiver or other listed applicants. Requirements differ by class and are updated by IRCC.
Employer-sponsored family or temporary applications do not become eligible because processing is long.
The PR application must reach the required stage
Most applicants need a complete PR application and acknowledgment of receipt. Express Entry candidates do not qualify merely after creating a profile or receiving an invitation.
Check the exact program table for whether completeness, positive eligibility or another milestone is required.
Apply from inside Canada with valid status
The applicant is generally in Canada and holds valid worker status, maintained status or restoration eligibility under the BOWP instructions. Apply before expiry where possible.
A spouse may have a separate family open-permit option but is not included automatically on the principal applicant’s work permit.
Some permits carry a location limit
Provincial nominees can receive a permit restricted to the nominating province. The underlying nomination and intention to settle there must remain valid.
A BOWP does not guarantee PR approval and ends on its printed date.
When to get legal advice
When open-work-permit eligibility depends on another status: Bridging open work permits
An immigration lawyer can assess the principal applicant, spouse, permanent-residence file or program condition that supports the requested work authorization.
The supporting person’s status or program changed
A permanent-residence application was returned or refused
The applicant travelled or changed employers while waiting
The current permit expires before eligibility is clear
A focused question may only need 15 minutes.
Use the time to identify the issue, any immediate risk and the next sensible step. If the matter needs more work, the lawyer can explain the proposed scope before you decide whether to proceed.
Read what an immigration lawyer can do and how an immigration law firm may handle further work.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about bridging open work permits
Can I get a BOWP after submitting an Express Entry profile?
No. A qualifying permanent residence application must already have been submitted and reached the required stage.
Is every BOWP unrestricted across Canada?
No. Provincial nominee permits can be restricted to the nominating province.
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