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Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

Transition seamlessly from temporary to permanent residency

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Seamless Transitions: The Bridging Open Work Permit

Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is a type of work permit that allows certain temporary foreign workers in Canada to continue working while they wait for a decision on their application for permanent residency. The BOWP is intended to bridge the gap between the expiration of a worker’s current work permit and the finalization of their application for permanent residency.

Eligibility for BOWP

To be eligible for a BOWP, a temporary foreign worker must meet the following requirements:

  • They must have a valid work permit that is due to expire within four months.
  • They must have submitted an application for permanent residency under one of the following programs:
    • Federal Skilled Worker Program
    • Federal Skilled Trades Program
    • Canadian Experience Class
    • Provincial Nominee Program
    • Quebec Skilled Worker Program
  • They must have received a positive eligibility assessment on their application for permanent residency.
  • They must be currently working in Canada for their employer listed on their work permit and have a job offer from that employer to continue working in the same occupation.
  • They must be residing in Canada at the time of their application for the BOWP.

Application Process

The application process for a BOWP is straightforward and can be done online or on paper. The applicant must first ensure that they meet all the eligibility requirements listed above. They can then complete the application form and pay the required fee. In addition to the application form, the applicant must also provide the following documents:

  • A copy of the current work permit.
  • Proof of current employment in Canada.
  • A copy of the application for permanent residency.
  • A copy of the positive eligibility assessment for permanent residency.
  • Proof of current address in Canada.

Processing Times

Processing times for a BOWP can vary depending on the workload of the government processing center. However, most BOWP applications are generally processed within four to five months. It is important to apply for a BOWP well before the expiration of the current work permit to ensure no gap in employment authorization.

Benefits of BOWP

A BOWP can provide a number of benefits to temporary foreign workers in Canada. First and foremost, it allows them to continue working and earning a living while they wait for their application for permanent residency to be processed. This can provide peace of mind and financial stability during a potentially uncertain time.

In addition, a BOWP can also provide more flexibility in terms of employment. Once a worker is granted a BOWP, they are no longer tied to their current employer and can seek employment elsewhere if they wish. This can be particularly beneficial if the worker is looking to change careers or if their current employer is unable to offer them continued employment.

FAQ of Bridging Open Work Permit

Can I apply for a BOWP if my work permit has already expired?

No, you must have a valid work permit that is set to expire within the next four months in order to be eligible for a BOWP.

Can I work while my BOWP application is being processed?

You can continue working in Canada while your BOWP application is being processed, as long as you maintain your status in the country and do not work beyond the expiry date of your current work permit.

Can I travel outside of Canada while my BOWP application is being processed?

You can travel outside of Canada while your BOWP application is being processed, but you will need to ensure that you have the necessary documents to re-enter the country, such as a valid passport and a valid work permit.

Can I apply for BOWP while awaiting permanent residency?

Yes, you can apply for BOWP while awaiting permanent residency. In fact, this is one of the requirements for eligibility for a BOWP.

Is it possible to go from a closed permit to a bridging open work permit?

As long as you are eligible, you can alter your work permit from a closed permit to a bridging open work permit.

ho can apply for Express Entry?

Express Entry is open to skilled workers and professionals who wish to immigrate to Canada. The eligibility criteria vary for various stream, however, your age, education, work experience and other relevant factors determine your eligibility. Eligible candidates include those with work experience in the Federal Skilled Worker Program, skilled tradespeople under the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and individuals with Canadian work experience in the Canadian Experience Class. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are integrated into Express Entry, allowing candidates nominated by provinces or territories to participate.