What is a BOWP?
A Bridging Open Work Permit is a temporary work permit that allows permanent residence applicants to continue working in Canada when their current work permit is about to expire and they haven't yet received a decision on their PR application.
BOWPs are open work permits, meaning you can work for any Canadian employer without restrictions (except those listed on the work permit).
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet all of these conditions
Eligible PR Programs
You must have applied for PR under one of these programs
Express Entry
- •Federal Skilled Worker Program
- •Canadian Experience Class
- •Federal Skilled Trades Program
- •Provincial Nominee Program (through Express Entry)
Provincial Nominee Programs
- •All provincial and territorial nomination programs
- •Both base and enhanced (Express Entry) streams
- •Must have received provincial nomination
Quebec Skilled Worker
- •Quebec Skilled Worker Program
- •Must have Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ)
- •Federal PR application submitted
Spouse or Common-Law In-Canada
- •Inland spousal sponsorship applications
- •Must have Acknowledgement of Receipt
- •Principal applicant only (not sponsor)
BOWP Benefits
Maintain Work Authorization
Continue working legally in Canada without interruption while your PR is processed.
Open Work Permit
Work for any Canadian employer - not tied to a specific job or employer.
Valid Until Decision
Generally valid until a decision is made on your permanent residence application.
No LMIA Required
No need for employer to obtain Labour Market Impact Assessment.
Peace of Mind
Eliminate work authorization gaps while waiting for your PR decision.
Fast Processing
BOWPs are often processed faster than regular work permit applications.
Application Process
Receive PR Application AOR
Wait for your Acknowledgement of Receipt letter from IRCC confirming your permanent residence application.
Check Work Permit Expiry
Apply when your work permit will expire within 4 months (or has expired within 4 months).
Gather Documents
Collect AOR letter, current work permit, proof of status, and identity documents.
Complete Application
Fill out IMM 5710 work permit application form indicating you're applying for a BOWP.
Submit Online
Apply through your IRCC online account and pay the processing fee ($255 CAD).
Maintain Status
Continue working under implied status if your permit expires before BOWP is approved.
Receive BOWP
Once approved, receive your bridging open work permit valid until PR decision.
Important Notes
Timing is Critical
Apply when your work permit expires in 4 months or less. Don't apply too early - your application may be refused.
AOR is Required
You must have received the Acknowledgement of Receipt from IRCC. The confirmation page after submission is not sufficient.
Not for All PR Applications
BOWP is only available for specific PR programs (Express Entry, PNP, Quebec Skilled Worker, Inland Spousal).
Implied Status Protection
If your work permit expires before BOWP approval, you can continue working under implied status.
What if PR is Refused?
If your PR application is refused, your BOWP becomes invalid and you must stop working immediately.
Processing Time
Current processing time is approximately 4-6 months, but can vary. Apply as soon as you're eligible.