BOWP (Bridging Open Work Permit)
A BOWP, or bridging open work permit, is a Canadian work permit that lets eligible workers keep working while they wait for a decision on their permanent residence application, so they do not lose status when their current permit ends.
Who qualifies
You must be in Canada, hold a valid work permit (or be on maintained status), and have applied for permanent residence under an eligible program. Eligible programs include the Express Entry programs (FSW, CEC, FST), the PNP, and some other economic streams, with extra conditions for some of them.
Your PR application must usually have passed the completeness check (you have an AOR). A BOWP is an open work permit, though PNP applicants' permits can be restricted to the nominating province.
See our BOWP page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for a BOWP outside Canada?
No. You must be in Canada when you apply.
Does a BOWP cover my spouse?
Your spouse may qualify for their own open work permit in some cases.
How long is a BOWP valid?
IRCC sets the length, usually long enough to cover expected PR processing.
Official sources
- IRCC: Work in Canadacanada.ca
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.