A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) gives way to foreign nationals working in Canada to extend their status if they are still awaiting for a decision on their Canada PR application. The BOWP is only available for those candidates who apply for Canada PR and hold a valid Work Permit. A successful BOWP application leads to an Open Work Permit (OWP), which allows applicants to work for multiple employers anywhere in Canada.

Bridging Open Work Permit Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you must:

  1. Currently, I am in Canada with a valid temporary resident status.

Meet one of the following criteria:

  1. Have a valid work permit.
  2. Have submitted to renew a work permit and are on maintained status in Canada.
  3. Are eligible to restore your temporary status and get a work permit?
  4. Have submitted to renew a work permit and are on maintained status in Canada.

Be applying for Canada PR under one of the following programs:

  1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
  3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  4. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
  5. Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
  6. Agri-Food Pilot Program
  7. Caring for Children Class or Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class
  8. Have successfully passed the R10 completeness check for a QSWP application or Express Entry application, or received a positive eligibility assessment under an eligible non-Express Entry permanent residence stream.

Bridging Open Work Permit Documents Required

The documents you need depend on the type of Canadian Work Permit you are applying for. Generally, you would need to submit the following documents:

  1. Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) letter
  2. Provincial nomination certificate (if applicable)
  3. Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) (Quebec Acceptance Certificate) (if applicable)
  4. Signed employment contract (if live-in caregiver)
  5. Completed application forms
  6. Proof of status in Canada
  7. Marriage certificate (if applicable)
  8. A valid copy of your passport
  9. Medical exam results (if requested)
  10. Proof of payment for applicable government fees

IRCC’s Conditions on Location of Employment

Open Work Permits (OWPs) offer holders flexibility in terms of their employers and the ability to change jobs. However, as a Bridging Open Work Permit holder, your conditions on employment location can be applied in two specific cases:

  1. PNP Applicants:

    2. IRCC requires that Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applicants with a BOWP are restricted to employment locations within the nominating province or territory.

  2. Quebec Applicants:

    3. Applicants under the Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW) program must designate Quebec as their place of employment when applying for a BOWP.

How & When to Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit?

In most cases, you must apply for a BOWP online through your IRCC secure account. If you encounter issues applying online, you can submit a paper application. Express Entry applicants can apply for a BOWP once they receive their Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter through their IRCC MyPortal account. Quebec Skilled Worker Class applicants must wait until they have passed the completeness check stage of their application.

Bridging Open Work Permit Fee

To apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you need to pay the following fee:

  1. Open Work Permit Processing Fee: CAD$ 155
  2. Open Work Permit Holder Fee: CAD$ 100

Bridging Open Work Permit Processing Time

Bridging Open Work Permits is typically processed within 3-4 months. However, this timeframe is subject to change based on factors such as the volume of applications, immigration policies, or any other individual circumstances.

Bridging Open Work Permit Validity

Bridging Open Work Permits are generally issued for 24 months. If your Canada PR application processing goes beyond the validity of the BOWP, an extension may be issued to you for 12 months. Take note that a Bridging Open Work Permit will also not be issued beyond the validity of your passport.

Benefits of a Bridging Open Work Permit

  1. Job Flexibility:

    2. You can work for any employer in Canada without needing a specific job offer.

  2. Continued Employment:

    3. You can continue working while your PR application is being processed.

  3. Path to Permanent Residency:

    4. It bridges the gap between your temporary status and permanent residency.

Common Challenges with BOWP

  1. Document Requirements:

    2. Ensuring all documents are complete and accurate.

  2. Processing Times:

    3. Delays in processing can be stressful.

  3. Eligibility Criteria:

    4. Meeting all the specific criteria for the BOWP.

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of the Bridging Open Work Permit can be a daunting task, especially for first-timers. Ensuring that all documents are complete, meeting the eligibility criteria, and understanding the application process is crucial. However, you don’t have to go through this process alone.

How Visa Solutions 4u Can Help!

Visa Solutions 4U offers expert assistance in navigating the process of obtaining a Bridging Open Work Permit. Our experienced team can guide you through every step of the application process, ensuring you have all the necessary documents and information for a successful application. We can help you avoid common pitfalls and increase your chances of approval. Contact us today for personalized assistance and take the first step toward your permanent residence in Canada!

By following this guide, you can better understand the Bridging Open Work Permit process and how to increase your chances of a successful application. Good luck!