Comprehensive Guide To Applying For A Bridging Open Work Permit
For those in Canada who are waiting for their PR decision, a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) application will assist them in staying legal in the country and working in the meantime. GreennHill Immigration ensures the smooth and hassle-free process for the applicants. In this guide you will learn all about the Bridging Open Work Permit application: who is eligible, how long it takes, and the most common mistakes to avoid.
What Is a Bridging Open Work Permit?
Bridging Open Work Permit: This work permit is for people who have already applied for PR and want to continue working in Canada and do not have to be tied to any employer. It is a temporary status you can fill into the period between your expiring work permit and when your PR application is approved. You are eligible if you:
Applied for PR under an economic immigration program (ex, Express Entry, PNP)
Possess valid work authorization, about to expire.
Are currently in Canada.
While awaiting a decision on your PR application, your BOWP is open, permitting you to work with nearly any employer in any sector.
Applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit
The process itself is simple but requires a lot of attention to detail when filling out your BOWP application. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Collect Necessary Paperwork
Make sure you have the following before you start your application endeavours:
PR application Receipt (AOR) –
✅ Valid passport
✅ Valid work permit (or proof of legal status)
✅ Details of the employer (if applicable)
✅ Payment for processing fees
Once you have gathered all the required documents,
Step 2 involves applying for your visa.
The quickest method to process your bridging open work permit application is through online submission. You need to upload your documents and pay your fees through your IRCC Account. You also have delays with paper applications since they have to be physically mailed and also manually processed.
Step 3: Wait for Processing
Normal processing time of BOWP applications is 2–3 months, but this is subject to variations. Monitor your file via the IRCC portal. GreenHill Immigration will help follow-up if there are any delays.
Why is your BOWP Taking Longer or Being Refused?
Errors in your application can make your processing time stretch for days, weeks, or now and then prompt refusals. In no particular order, here are some of the most common reasons applications wind up stalled:
❌ Not enough documents(eg: confimation of AOR)
❌ Expired passport
Mistakes in the application form ❌
So be like the funny guy above and avoid the above; ❌ Applying too early without fulfilling eligibility requirements
The best way to avoid any of this is to always get an immigration expert from GreenHill Immigration to review your application before submission.
Links to Check Your BOWP Application Status
After submitting your BOWP you can check your status under:
IRCC Account — Check for updates in real-time by logging in.
IRCC Processing Tool – See estimated time to process applications.
Web Form Inquiry – Where your application is taking longer than normal, you can reach out to IRCC for an enquiry.
What if Your Work Permit Expires While Waiting on a BOWP?
If your work permit is set to expire before you have received your BOWP, you could receive remained status (previously known as implicit status). That means you can keep working and stay in Canada only as long if you previously applied before your current work permit expired. If you did not meet the deadline, you might need to get status back. What we can do atGreenHill Immigration to help you through this process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — one of the benefits of a BOWP Q: Can I change employer while on a BOWP?
A: Yes! You can work for any employer in Canada because a BOWP is an open work permit.
Q: When should I apply for a BOWP?
A: Ideally, you should apply at least 4 months before your current work permit is about to expire to make sure that you do not experience a gap in your ability to work.
A: If your PR application is refused and you have a BOWP, you will most likely have to leave Canada.
A: BOWPs are valid until they are set to expire, so you can wait out your BOWP but must pursue other immigration pathways or depart Canada.
Why Use GreenHill Immigration for Your BOWP Application?
GreenHill Immigration does the heavy lifting for you while applying for Bridging Open Work Permit. Here’s how we help:
When you submit your document, make sure they are complete and error free
✅ Update you on processing times
✅ Help follow up IRCC if it takes more time
Avoid delays or refusals by handing over your bridging open work permit application to the experts. Get in touch with GreenHill Immigration now!
A Bridging Open Work Permit application does not need to be stressful. By following the right guidance you can have your work permit available to you in Canada as you wait for your PR. Keep check, keep educated and let GreenHill Immigration assist you at every step!
