In this article, we’ll discuss the Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) for 2024. Make sure to read through to the end for all the information you need.
Introduction to Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)
The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP), also known as a bridging visa, is an important program introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This permit is designed to help individuals who are applying for permanent residency in Canada continue working while their applications are being processed. Let’s dive into the details of what the BOWP involves, who is eligible, and how to apply.
What is a Bridging Open Work Permit?
A Bridging Open Work Permit allows individuals already in Canada on a valid work permit to stay employed while waiting for a decision on their permanent residency application. This initiative helps bridge the gap between the expiration of a current work permit and the final decision on the permanent residency application. The BOWP is a strategic measure by IRCC to maintain workforce stability and support applicants during their transition to permanent residency.
Eligibility for a Bridging Open Work Permit
To qualify for a BOWP, applicants must meet specific criteria:
Application Under Specific Programs: Applicants must have applied as the principal applicant under one of the following programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Class (FSWC)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Class (FSTC)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Caring for Children Class
- Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class
- Agri-Food Pilot
- Quebec Skilled Worker (QSW)
- Completeness Check: For Express Entry and QSW applicants, the application must have passed the completeness check. For non-Express Entry streams, a positive eligibility assessment is required.
Current Status: Applicants must currently be in Canada and meet one of the following conditions:
- Have a valid temporary resident status and authorization to work with a valid work permit.
- Have maintained status and authorization to work by submitting a renewal application for their work permit.
- Be eligible to restore their temporary resident status with authorization to work on a work permit.
Application Requirements for BOWP
- Select Open Work Permit: Choose “Open Work Permit” as the type of work permit on the application.
- Fee Payment: Pay the work permit processing fee and the open work permit holder fee.
If the permanent resident application is incomplete, IRCC will refuse the BOWP application and will not refund the processing fees. Note that the previous requirement to wait until the current work permit was within four months of expiration before applying for a BOWP was removed in 2021.
Bridging Open Work Permit for Express Entry Applicants
For those applying under Express Entry, the following details apply:
- Supporting Documents: Applicants must provide all supporting documents listed in their document checklist and include a copy of their Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter. This letter is issued automatically by IRCC when the application is received.
- Employment Location: There are no restrictions on the employment location for applicants under the FSWC, CEC, or FSTC as these are federal programs managed under Express Entry.
Bridging Open Work Permit for Non-Express Entry Applicants
Applicants who apply through non-Express Entry programs will receive the AOR letter after IRCC verifies that the application is complete.
Bridging Open Work Permit for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Applicants
For those applying under a PNP:
- Employment Restrictions: PNP applicants must ensure that their employment is not restricted by the conditions of their nomination.
- Nomination Letter: Applicants must include a copy of their nomination letter with their BOWP application.
- Employment Location: The work permit will be restricted to the province that issued the nomination.
Bridging Open Work Permit for Quebec Applicants
As of August 31, 2021, applicants for immigration to Quebec can now obtain a BOWP. Previously, Quebec-based or Quebec-bound applicants were ineligible to qualify.
- Permanent Residence Application: The applicant must have submitted a permanent residence application as the principal applicant under Quebec’s Skilled Worker Program to IRCC.
- Acknowledgement of Receipt: They must have an AOR confirming that the federal government has received and accepted their application.
Spouses or Common-Law Partners of BOWP Holders
The spouse or common-law partner of a BOWP holder may also be eligible to obtain a work permit in Canada. They can apply simultaneously with the principal applicant. Here are some considerations:
- Duration: The BOWP for spouses or common-law partners must be valid for more than six months.
- Employment Criteria:
- For spouses or common-law partners of FSWC applicants, the work must be skilled, falling within National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill level 0, A, or B.
- For spouses or common-law partners of PNP applicants, the permit is valid for the duration of the principal PNP applicant’s work permit, irrespective of the occupation’s skill level.
- For spouses or common-law partners of FSTC applicants, the work must be at NOC skill level B.
- For spouses or common-law partners of CEC applicants, there are no specific skill level requirements.
Applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit
To apply for a BOWP, follow these steps:
- Online Application: Apply online through the IRCC website.
- Selection of Permit Type: Choose “Open Work Permit” as the type of work permit on your application.
- Fee Payment: Pay the required work permit processing fee and the open work permit holder fee.
Conclusion
The Bridging Open Work Permit is a crucial tool for maintaining stability for workers in Canada waiting for permanent residency decisions. It allows eligible individuals to continue contributing to the Canadian workforce without the uncertainty of their work permit expiring before their permanent residency application is processed. Understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and specific provisions for different applicants can help streamline the transition for many individuals seeking to establish their future in Canada.