The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) provides eligible applicants the opportunity to continue working in Canada as they wait for the determination of their PR application. Otherwise, applicants would be forced out of work, resulting in economic insecurity and unpredictability. The BOWP is an important element to know about for individuals mapping out their immigration process since it guarantees ongoing work and calm of mind while waiting for permanent residency in Canada confirmation.
Canada is among the most sought-after countries for professionals who wish to settle down. Immigration, though, is a time-consuming process, and many applicants are in a position where their existing work permit is soon to expire as they await the processing of their permanent residency (PR) application. This is where the Bridging Open Work Permit comes into play.
What is a Bridging Open Work Permit?
A BOWP is a specific work permit for foreign workers who have submitted an application for permanent residency in Canada. It enables them to remain and work in Canada without a work permit specific to the job they are applying for. This implies that the applicant neither requires an LMIA nor a job offer to secure the BOWP.
In contrast to employer-specific work permits, which limit the employee to a single employer, a Bridging Open Work Permit permits applicants to work for any Canadian employer. This is useful for individuals who might wish to change jobs or seek better opportunities while their PR application is being processed.
Who is Eligible for a BOWP?
Not everybody is entitled to apply for a BOWP. In order to qualify, an applicant must fulfill the following requirements:
- They must be in Canada at the moment.
- They must possess a valid work permit due to expire within four months.
- They must have made a complete application for permanent residence under one of the qualifying PR programs.
- Their PR application would have gone through the completeness screening by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The qualifying PR programs for a BOWP are:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Agri-Food Pilot
How to Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit
Applying for a BOWP involves a few important steps. Here’s how the process works:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure that your PR application falls under an eligible category and that your current work permit is about to expire.
- Gather Required Documents: The key documents include a copy of your PR application’s acknowledgment letter, proof of current employment status, and a copy of your current work permit.
- Apply Online: Register on the IRCC website and fill out the BOWP application form.
- Pay the Fees: The fee for processing the BOWP is normally CAD 255.
- Wait for Approval: Your application will be processed by IRCC once you have submitted it, and in case of approval, you will be issued with your new work permit, permitting you to remain working in Canada legally.
Benefits of a Bridging Open Work Permit
The Bridging Open Work Permit has a number of benefits for foreign workers, such as:
- Job Flexibility: As it is an open work permit, the applicants can work for any employer in Canada.
- No LMIA Requirement: It does not need an LMIA, unlike employer-specific work permits.
- Continuity of Employment: It enables workers to remain employed without interruption while their PR application is being processed.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Maintaining a Bridging Open Work Permit keeps candidates legally in Canada, making them eligible for PR approval.
Processing Time for a Bridging Open Work Permit
Processing time for a BOWP is different depending on where the applicant is and how many applications are being processed. Generally, it can take 3 to 5 months. Nevertheless, applicants must monitor the IRCC website regularly for current processing times.
Can You Extend a BOWP?
A BOWP cannot typically be renewed. In case an applicant’s PR application is still pending and his/her BOWP is soon to expire, he/she might have to apply for another kind of work permit or look into other alternatives, such as a visitor visa, in order to continue their legal stay in Canada.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
When applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit, avoid the following mistakes:
- Applying too early or too late: Make sure your current work permit is expiring within four months before applying.
- Submitting incomplete documents: Ensure all necessary documents are included in your application.
- Not checking PR application status: Your PR application must have passed the completeness check before applying for the Bridging Open Work Permit.
The BOWP is a precious choice for international workers in Canada who are holding out for their permanent residency. It offers financial stability, flexibility in employment, and peace of mind by enabling applicants to maintain employment while waiting for their PR application to be processed.
If you qualify under the eligibility and go through the application procedure properly, you can get a BOWP and reach closer to your ambition of becoming a permanent resident in Canada.
