The Bridging Open Work Permit Program (BOWP) stands as a critically important immigration pathway introduced by the Government of Canada. This program specifically addresses the needs of foreign nationals who have submitted permanent residence applications and require continued work authorization during the processing period.
The BOWP provides permanent residence applicants with opportunities to maintain employment in Canada while awaiting application outcomes under designated immigration categories. By creating a bridge between permanent residence application submission and final approval, the program enables applicants to sustain their work authorization, continue residing in Canada, and actively contribute to the Canadian economy throughout the processing timeline. Beyond mere employment continuity, the BOWP facilitates successful integration into Canadian society during the transitional waiting period.
The BOWP encompasses six permanent residence program categories under which applicants may qualify for eligibility. These categories include: Express Entry programs, Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Worker Class, Caring for Children Class, Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class, and Home Child Care Provider or Home Support Worker Pilot programs. Each category maintains specific eligibility criteria that applicants must satisfy.
Express Entry represents the primary pathway among permanent residence programs for economic immigrants seeking Canadian permanent residence. This system accommodates skilled immigrants aspiring to establish themselves in Canada and contribute meaningfully to the national economy. Express Entry comprises three distinct permanent residence streams: Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. Our experienced immigration lawyers can guide you through these complex pathways.
For BOWP eligibility under Express Entry, applicants must first possess a pending permanent residence application submitted through one of the Express Entry streams. Merely maintaining an Express Entry profile does not establish BOWP eligibility. Applicants must have received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and subsequently submitted their permanent residence application. Additionally, applicants must reside in Canada without intentions of settling in Quebec when applying for the BOWP. Following application submission, applicants retain travel privileges during processing, though return to Canada may prove challenging without valid eTA or Canadian visa documentation.
Departing Canada after work permit expiration prevents continued employment unless the new application receives approval. Exceptions exist for applicants possessing valid work permits, expired work permits with maintained worker status, or eligibility for status restoration and work permit acquisition. Crucially, applicants must serve as principal applicants on their permanent residence applications, having submitted complete applications that passed completeness checks resulting in application number issuance. Acknowledgment of receipt letters following permanent residence application submission carries significant importance.
BOWP eligibility under the Provincial Nominee Program operates through two distinct channels: Express Entry-aligned streams and non-Express Entry streams. Express Entry stream requirements mirror those of other Express Entry categories. However, non-Express Entry provincial nominees face additional conditions requiring satisfaction.
These applicants must demonstrate absence of employment restrictions, confirmed through nomination letters issued by nominating provinces. Nomination letter copies must accompany BOWP applications. Furthermore, applicants must evidence approval in principle for their permanent residence applications, submitting approval-in-principle decision documentation alongside their BOWP applications.
Requirements differ notably under caregiver categories, with additional conditions applicable. Applicants must secure approval in principle for permanent residence before BOWP applications. Beyond this requirement, applicants bear obligation to provide evidence demonstrating 24 months of qualifying work experience. Applicants must fulfill specific criteria: possession of valid work permits, work permit extension applications submitted before original permit expiration, or eligibility for status restoration and work permit obtainment. Approval-in-principle decision copies must supplement supporting documentation.
The Bridging Open Work Permit Program presents valuable opportunities for employment in Canada for individuals who have applied for permanent residence under one of six eligible programs. This program delivers tailored solutions for those eager to participate in the Canadian workforce while awaiting permanent residence application decisions.
