Am I Eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit?

If you're working in Canada and waiting for your permanent residence (PR) application, a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) lets you keep working while your application is processed.

Benefits of a BOWP

BOWPs provide flexibility, allowing you to work for most employers in various industries without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Eligibility for a BOWP

To qualify, you must:

1. Be in Canada as a temporary resident.
   
   
2. Have valid status in Canada by:
• Holding a valid work permit
• Maintaining status and authorization to work while renewing your work permit
• Being eligible to restore your temporary resident status
  
  
3. Have submitted a PR application under one of these programs:
• Express Entry (FSWP, CEC, FSTP)
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
• Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSW)
• Agri-Food Pilot Program
• Caring for Children Class or High Medical Needs Class (if applied before June 18, 2019)
  
  
4. Completed the required stage of your PR application.
   
   

Family Members' Eligibility

Spouses or common-law partners may also get an open work permit if the BOWP holder:

• Holds a valid work permit or is authorized to work
• Is authorized to work for at least six months from the application date
• Resides in Canada or plans to
• Is in a genuine relationship
• Is employed in specific NOC occupations or holds a provincial nomination/Quebec Selection Certificate
  
  

Dependent children need an LMIA or LMIA exemption for a work permit.

Location Restrictions for BOWP Holders

BOWP holders might face work location restrictions:

• PNP applicants must work in the nominating province or territory.
• Quebec applicants must select Quebec as their work location.