Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) Canada 2025

The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is a crucial pathway for foreign nationals in Canada which enables them to continue working while their permanent residence applications are under review. In 2023 IRCC issued approximately 3,330 BOWPs between January and August, reflecting the permits' significance in facilitating uninterrupted employment for PR applicants.

This guide will equip you with comprehensive insights to assist applicants navigating the transition from temporary to PR in Canada - covering all aspects from eligibility criteria, application process, and associated timelines of the BOWP Canada 2025.

What is a Bridging Open Work Permit?

The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) allows foreign nationals already working in Canada to continue their employment while awaiting decision on their permanent residency application. A BOWP is an open work permit in Canada meaning holders can work for most employers across Canada without needing a job offer or Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The BOWP Canada permit:

• Is not a job specific permit 
• Is valid for up to 24 months 
• Is extendable in 12 months increments (if PR process is delayed)
• Is restricted to exceed the validity of applicants passport

Without a BOWP permit, foreign nationals nearing the expiry of their current work permit may be forced to leave Canada, or change their status to a visitor (which means they cannot work) or rely on an employer sponsored LMIA based permit.

Also Read: Labour Market Impact Assessment LMIA Canada

Who is Eligible for Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) Canada?

To apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit applicants (foreign nationals) would need to meet the following BOWP Canada requirements 2025, which include:

• Must be residing with a valid temporary resident status in Canada
• Must meet one of the following criterias:
• Hold a valid work permit with valid temporary status
• Eligible to restoration of status (of their temporary residence status) with authorization to work on a work permit
• Submitted to review/renew their work permit while they are on maintain status in Canada
• Applicants must have applied for Canada PR process under one of the following economic immigration pathways:
• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) - given no employer specific restrictions apply
• Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
• Agri Food Pilot
• Caring for Children Class or Caring for People WIth High Medical Needs (applications submitted prior to June 18, 2019)
• Applicants must have reached a certain stage in their Application for Permanent Residency (APR):
• Express Entry or QSWP candidates must have passed completeness check under section R10 or the IRPR
• Non Express Entry programs applicants must have received a positive eligibility assessment.

Documents Required for Bridging Open Work Permit Canada

The BOWP Canada requirements might vary slightly depending on the type of work permit or PR pathway chosen. The comprehensive Bridging Open Work Permit document checklist includes:

• Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter
• Provincial Nominee Certificate (if applicable)
• Certificat d’acceptation du Quebec (CAQ) (if applicable)
• Signed employment contract (for live in caregiver)
• Completed application form (IMM forms)
• Proof of status in Canada
• Valid passport
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Medical tests for Canada PR results (if requested)
• Proof of fee payment

How to Apply for Bridging Open Work Permit in Canada?

To proceed with the application process for Bridging Open Work Permit, applicants can do it online i.e. through their IRCC secure account or for applicants having issues applying online can also opt for BOWP paper applications. 

Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) Canada Fees

So far we have explored everything about application and Bridge Open Work Permit Canada requirements. Moving further let us learn about the details to the total BOWP Canada cost 2025:

BOWP Canada Processing Time & Work Authorization 

The processing time for Bridging Open Work Permit applications as of March 2025, is about 3 - 4 months.

Amongst this If the applicant’s current work permit expires while their BOWP application is pending, they may continue working under maintained status, provided that they submit their applications before your existing work permit expires.

*In case BOWP application is refused, applicant must stop working immediately. 

Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) Validity & Extensions

A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is typically issued for up to 24 months, or until the expiry of your passport validity (whichever comes first). 

However, if needed applicants can opt for extensions, provided your Canada PR application is still under review. IRCC Canada offers an extension of up to 12 months at a time.

Can I Include Family Members in My Bridging Open Work Permit Application?

If a BOWP holder is currently working in Canada in a skilled occupation, their spouse may apply for an open work permit while dependent children can also accompany the BOWP holders by applying for a visitor record.

Spouse or Common Law Partner

Spouses of BOWP holders may be eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit Canada if the BOWP holder:

• Has a valid work permit or is authorised to work
• Is working in an occupation under NOC 0, A or b
• Holds a valid Provincial Nominee Certificate, or Quebec Selection Certificate 
• Has at least six months of authorised employment left

Dependent Children

Dependent children are not eligible for an open work permit under BOWP They must:

• Apply separately for a visitor record
•  Obtain a work permit via an LMIA or LMIA exempted route 

Also Read: Understanding Canada Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Processing Time 2025

Secure Your BOWP Canada with GetGIS Assistance

A Bridging Open Work Permit is an excellent option for those transitioning from temporary to permanent residency in Canada. This pathway offers the freedom to continue working without being tied to a specific employer, making it essentially valuable for foreign nationals seeking stability during their PR transition

Are you looking for personalised one on one support applying for Bridging Open Work Permit? Look no further than GetGIS. Our immigration assistance team ensures that all your Canada PR requirements are met, without disturbing your stay in Canada.

Book Your Free Consultation and let’s get started with your eligibility verification.

Also Read:

• The Complete Guide to What is an AOR in Canada Immigration
• How to Apply for Canada PR: Comprehensive Guide to Canada PR Process from India in 2025
• Total Cost For Canada PR From India in 2025
• How to Increase Chances of Getting PR in Canada in 2025?