Applying for permanent residency (PR) in Canada is a significant milestone for many international workers and students. However, waiting for your PR application to be processed can take months or even years — and during this time, you may wonder how you can continue working legally in Canada.
The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is designed precisely to address this gap, allowing eligible applicants to maintain their work status while awaiting a final decision on their PR application.
What Is a Bridging Open Work Permit?
The BOWP is a type of open work permit issued to individuals who have applied for permanent residence under specific economic immigration programs and whose current work permit is about to expire. It “bridges” the gap between the expiry of your existing work authorization and the final PR decision, ensuring you can continue working legally without interruption.
Unlike employer-specific work permits, a BOWP is an open permit, meaning you can work for any employer in Canada and in any occupation.
Who Is Eligible for the BOWP?
To qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you must meet the following key criteria:
- You have submitted an application for permanent residence under one of the following programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (Express Entry)
- Canadian Experience Class
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- You currently hold a valid work permit that is set to expire within the next four months or has recently expired (generally within the past 90 days).
- You have received a confirmation of receipt (also called Acknowledgment of Receipt or AOR) from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) confirming your PR application is in process.
If you meet these conditions, you can apply for the BOWP before your current work permit expires or within 90 days after expiry, allowing you to keep working while IRCC processes your PR application.
How to Apply for the BOWP
The application for the Bridging Open Work Permit can be submitted online through the IRCC portal. Here’s a quick overview of the process:
- Gather Documents: You’ll need your current work permit, the AOR from IRCC, proof of identity, and any other documents required by IRCC.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the application form for a work permit made from inside Canada (Form IMM 5710) and pay the application fee.
- Submit Your Application Online: Submit your application through your IRCC account and keep proof of submission.
- Wait for Processing: Processing times vary, but you can continue working under your current work permit until it expires and then switch to your BOWP once approved.
Why Working with an RCIC Is Critical
Applying for a BOWP may seem straightforward, but immigration rules are complex and mistakes can jeopardize your legal status and PR application. That’s why it’s critical to have a licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) by your side.
An RCIC:
- Understands the latest IRCC policies and procedural updates
- Ensures your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time
- Helps you avoid common pitfalls that could delay or negatively impact your PR
- Provides peace of mind knowing your immigration matters are handled professionally and ethically
Choosing to navigate this process alone or with unlicensed advisors can lead to costly errors — risking your ability to work or remain in Canada lawfully.
Benefits of the BOWP
- Work Without Restrictions: Since it is an open permit, you aren’t tied to a single employer or job.
- Avoid Gaps in Employment: You maintain legal status and continue to earn income while your PR application is processed.
- Peace of Mind: Avoid the stress of losing your work authorization during long PR processing times.
Important Things to Remember
- The BOWP is only available to applicants from specific economic immigration streams — it’s not available for family sponsorship or refugee claims.
- Your PR application must be “in process” — meaning IRCC has received it and issued an AOR.
- You should apply before your current work permit expires or within 90 days after expiry to maintain continuous work authorization.
- If you do not meet eligibility, working without proper authorization can negatively affect your immigration status.
How Saranova Immigration Inc. Can Help
At Saranova Immigration Inc., our team of experts specializes in guiding clients through the BOWP application and the broader permanent residency process. We ensure your application meets IRCC standards, minimizing risks and maximizing your chances of success.
Our personalized services include:
- Eligibility assessment and application timing advice
- Thorough application preparation and review
- Proactive communication with IRCC on your behalf
- Continuous support to keep your status valid throughout
Take the Next Step with Confidence
Don’t risk your work status or permanent residency by navigating complex immigration procedures alone. The Bridging Open Work Permit is a valuable tool — but only when applied for correctly and timely by experts you can trust.
📞 Contact Saranova Immigration Inc. today and let our team of experts secure your legal work status and help you confidently move forward toward your Canadian permanent residency.
Your future in Canada deserves professional care. Trust the experts who know how to get it done right.
