Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWPs) allow foreign nationals working in Canada to extend their work permit while they await a decision on their permanent residency applications. BOWP is only available to those who have already applied for permanent residence and have a valid work permit. Applicants who successfully complete the BOWP application will receive an open work permit allowing them to work for multiple employers in multiple locations of their choice.

A foreign worker must meet the following conditions before applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP):

A permanent residency application has been submitted

The current work permit expires in four months or less

Be in possession of a valid work permit

And currently residing in Canada

Additionally, not all permanent residence programs are eligible for the BOWP. The BOWP is available only to applicants to the following permanent residence programs:

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

Caring for Children Class

Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class

Applicants who meet the eligibility criteria for the BOWP may submit an application. Applicants for permanent residence through the province of Quebec are not eligible for the BOWP. Some Quebec applicants may be eligible to work with a Certificate de selection du Quebec (CSQ)