Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)
The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is a program that allows certain temporary foreign workers in Canada to continue working while they wait for a final decision on their application for permanent residence. The BOWP is intended to provide stability to these workers and their families while they transition from temporary to permanent residence in Canada.
If you meet these eligibility criteria, you can apply for a BOWP online. You will need to provide documentation to support your application, including proof of your work permit, proof of your application for permanent residence, and proof of payment of the application fee.
The processing time for a BOWP application varies, but it typically takes several weeks. Once your application is approved, you will receive an open work permit that allows you to work for any employer in Canada while you wait for a final decision on your application for permanent residence.
Check if you meet the eligibility criteria for a BOWP, which includes having a valid work permit that is due to expire within four months, having submitted an application for permanent residence under one of the federal economic immigration programs, having received a positive eligibility assessment, and being physically present in Canada at the time of your application.
You will need to gather and prepare various documents to support your BOWP application, including a copy of your valid work permit, a copy of your application for permanent residence, proof of payment of the application fee, and any additional supporting documents that may be required based on your specific circumstances.
You can apply for a BOWP online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You will need to create an account, fill out the application form, and upload your supporting documents. You will also need to pay the application fee.
If your application is approved, you will receive an open work permit that allows you to work for any employer in Canada while you wait for a final decision on your application for permanent residence. Make sure to check the details of your work permit, including the expiry date and any conditions.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible for a BOWP, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have a valid work permit that is due to expire within four months.
- You must have submitted an application for permanent residence under one of the following federal economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
- You must have received a positive eligibility assessment on your application for permanent residence.
- You must be physically present in Canada at the time of your BOWP application.
DOCUMENT REQUIREMENT
- Valid passport
- Valid work permit
- Application for permanent residence
- Proof of payment
- Supporting documents