Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

Foreign nationals in Canada awaiting a decision on their permanent residency application and already have a valid work permit can apply for a bridging open work permit. This work permit will allow foreign nationals to continue working until they receive a decision on their permanent residency application.

You may be eligible if:

  • Your current work permit expires in 4 months or less.
  • You have a valid status on your work permit

You qualify only if you have applied to permanent residence programs under one of the following classes:

  • Federal skilled worker class (FSWC)
  • Canadian experience class (CEC)
  • Federal skilled trades class (FSTC)
  • Caring for children class or caring for people with high medical needs class (if the APR has been submitted before June 18, 2019).
  • Provincial nominee class (PNC), for applicants for whom there are no employer restrictions on nominations.