Bridging Open Work Permit

A Bridging Open Work Permit, or BOWP, helps eligible permanent residence applicants continue working in Canada while IRCC processes their application.

You generally need to:

  • Live in Canada
  • Be the principal permanent residence applicant
  • Hold a valid work permit, have maintained status, or qualify for restoration
  • Submit a complete permanent residence application under an eligible program
  • Receive an Acknowledgement of Receipt from IRCC
  • Meet any program-specific requirements

Eligible programs include Express Entry and certain Provincial Nominee Program applications. Some caregiver, Quebec, and Agri-Food applicants also qualify under specific rules.

Creating an Express Entry profile does not count as submitting a permanent residence application. The former four-month work permit expiry rule no longer applies.

How Skylane Immigration Can Help

  • Reviews your eligibility and immigration status
  • Confirms your permanent residence application stage
  • Prepares your forms and supporting documents
  • Helps protect your status before your permit expires

Book a consultation before your current work permit expires.

Disclaimer

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