Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) in Canada

What is a Bridging Open Work Permit?

A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) lets eligible foreign workers in Canada keep working while their permanent residence application is being processed. Because it’s an open work permit, you’re not tied to a single employer or location (with a few program-specific limits). For general open-permit concepts, see Open Work Permit Canada.

Eligibility

You may qualify if you:

• Are in Canada with valid temporary resident status.

• Have submitted a complete PR application under a qualifying stream, such as Express Entry (including the Canadian Experience Class), a Provincial Nominee stream, or Quebec pathways like Quebec Skilled Worker leading to a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ).

• Passed initial eligibility checks for your PR file.

Government Fees

Total CAD $255:

• CAD $155 work permit processing fee

• CAD $100 open work permit holder fee

Where You Can Work

• Generally, any employer, any province/territory.

• PNP nominees: expected to work in the nominating province.

• Quebec applicants: expected to work in Quebec.

Validity

• Typically up to 24 months (cannot exceed passport expiry).

• If PR processing continues, a single extension up to 12 months may be possible.

How to Apply

• Apply online through your IRCC account.

• Want a quick readiness check? Start with our Assessment Form or speak to us via Contact.

• If you’re transitioning from a job-specific Work Visa, we’ll map your switch to a BOWP.

Required Documents (typical)

• Acknowledgement/receipt for your PR application

• Proof of valid status in Canada

• Proof of nomination/CSQ if applicable

• Proof of fee payment

• Any IRCC-requested forms

Travel Considerations

A BOWP is not a travel document. For re-entry you may still need a TRV/eTA, depending on your nationality.

Refusals & Extensions

• Common refusal causes: incomplete PR file, ineligibility, expired status.

• Extensions can be requested if your PR case is still pending when your BOWP nears expiry (subject to limits above).

BOWP at a Glance (Recap Table)

Professional Guidance That Moves Your File Forward

A BOWP safeguards your employment while IRCC finalizes your PR—but timing, eligibility, and documents must be exact. Our team can align your BOWP with your long-term plan under Express Entry or Canadian Experience Class, and, where relevant, Quebec routes like Quebec Skilled Worker. Start with a quick Assessment Form or Contact an immigration consultant today.