The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is a special work permit that lets you keep working in Canada and change employers freely while waiting for your permanent residence decision.
Waiting for permanent residence in Canada can feel stressful. Many people wonder: “What if my work permit expires before I get my PR card?”
The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) acts like a safety bridge. It keeps your right to Work in Canada while your PR application is being processed.
With a BOWP, you can:
- Keep working without breaks
- Reduce stress about your status
- Focus on building your life in Canada
Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) – Quick Overview
- Purpose:
- Keeps your work permit active while waiting for PR.
- Allows job continuity and flexibility to change employers or provinces.
- Eligibility:
- In Canada, the main applicant, work permit is expiring within 4 months.
- Submitted PR application with AOR.
- Applies to Express Entry, PNP, Quebec Skilled Worker, Agri-Food, and Caregiver streams.
- Benefits:
- Open work permit: work for almost any employer.
- No job interruptions, family may also work/study.
- Valid up to 2 years.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify:
What Is the BOWP and Why Does It Matter
The BOWP is a special open work permit. That means you don’t need a job offer from a single employer. You can:
- Stay in your current role
- Change jobs freely
- Move between provinces
Main goals of the BOWP:
- Stop gaps in your work status
- Let you continue working while waiting for your PR decision
- Reduce stress and interruptions in your life
It’s about peace of mind. You can focus on your future in Canada, not paperwork deadlines.
Who Can Apply for a BOWP in Canada?
Not everyone can get a BOWP. But if you meet the right conditions, it’s open for you.
Eligibility requirements:
- Be in Canada when applying
- Be the main applicant (not a dependent)
- Work permit expiring within 4 months
- Submitted a complete PR application and received an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR)
Eligible immigration streams:
| Stream | Examples |
|---|---|
| Express Entry | Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) |
| Provincial Nominee Program | All PNP streams |
| Quebec Skilled Worker | QSW Program |
| Other Programs | Agri-Food Pilot, Caregiver programs (Caring for Children, Caring for People with High Medical Needs, Home Child-Care Provider, Home Support Worker) |
Benefits of the BOWP
The BOWP gives freedom and peace of mind.
- Keep working legally: no breaks in your job
- Open permit: freedom to change employers
- Stay calm: no stress about losing status while waiting for PR
- Family support: spouses/partners may get an open work permit
- Valid for up to 2 years
It’s about feeling safe, stable, and confident while planning your life in Canada.
Personal Story: Ali’s Journey 👥
Ali came to Canada on a work permit while waiting for his permanent residence. As his work permit was about to expire, he felt stressed.
Then he learned about the Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). He applied on time, and it allowed him to:
- Keep working at his job without interruption
- Explore new job opportunities in another province
- Feel confident about his life in Canada while waiting for PR
Two years later, Ali received his PR card. Thanks to the BOWP, he didn’t lose income, and his career continued smoothly
How to Apply for a BOWP – Step by Step
Applying for the Bridging Open Work Permit is easier than it sounds. Just follow these steps carefully:
- Check eligibility:
- In Canada, a work permit expiring within 4 months
- PR application submitted with AOR
- Gather documents:
- Current work permit
- AOR letter
- Passport & digital photo
- Program-specific letters (CSQ for Quebec, nomination for PNP)
- Apply online:
- Sign in to the IRCC account
- Choose “Extend/change work permit” → Open Work Permit
- Fill IMM 5710 and upload documents
- Pay fees:
- Work permit: CAD $155
- Open work permit holder fee: CAD $100
- Total: CAD $255
- Submit and wait:
- Maintained status allows you to keep working under your old permit until the new one arrives
- Receive your BOWP:
- Usually valid for up to 2 years
- Work for almost any employer in Canada
Tips & Tricks for a Smooth BOWP Application
Applying for a BOWP can be easy if you follow some simple tips:
- Apply early: Don’t wait until your work permit is about to expire. Start 4 months before expiry.
Double-check documents: Make sure your passport, AOR, and program-specific letters are ready and valid. - Keep digital copies: Save PDFs of your application, receipts, and confirmations.
- Use IRCC guidelines: Follow the official forms carefully to avoid delays.
- Check eligibility carefully: Make sure you qualify under your immigration stream before applying.
- Ask for help: If you feel unsure, a free assessment form or consultation can prevent mistakes and stress.
Required Documents
Here’s a simple list of what you need:
- Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from your PR application
- Current work permit
- Valid passport
- Digital photo (IRCC size and format)
- Nomination letters or CSQ (if applicable for PNP or Quebec programs)
- Program-specific approvals (Agri-Food, Caregiver programs, etc.)
Tip: Keep everything ready before applying. Missing documents can delay your application.
Fees and Permit Duration
Here’s the breakdown in an easy table:
| Fee Type | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Work permit fee | 155 |
| Open work permit holder fee | 100 |
| Total | 255 |
Duration:
- Most BOWPs are valid for up to 2 years.
- Sometimes, IRCC may issue a shorter or longer period depending on your PR application status.
Encouragement: This small investment of time and money helps protect your job and your peace of mind. It’s worth it!
The Bottom Line
The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is more than a document. It’s a safety net that lets you:
- Keep working without gaps
- Change employers freely
- Stay calm and secure with your family
Think of the BOWP as a bridge connecting your current job to your future life in Canada. Walk across it safely, confidently, and stress-free.
Fill out our assessment form and take the first step toward a secure life in Canada!
FAQs
No, it’s only for people who are already in Canada.
Usually up to 2 years, sometimes shorter or longer, depending on your PR process.
Yes! The BOWP is open, so you don’t need to stick with one employer.
The BOWP will end. You may need a new work permit to stay in Canada.
Often, yes! Spouses or common-law partners may be eligible for an open work permit.
