What to know about bridging open work permit (BOWP) processing time
Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is a boon, if you are in Canada waiting for your permanent residency (PR) application outcome. It allows you to work lawfully while your application for PR is processing. One of the most worrisome issues for applicants, though? How long it takes to process.
If your work permit is set to expire soon, we can only imagine the stress you feel at GreenHill Immigration. Now coming to the BOWP processing time, what decides it and how to escape the delays.
Bridging Open Work Permit: What Is It?
A BOWP is an open work permit that you are granted to remain and work in Canada until your PR application is processed. You may be eligible if you:
Hold a valid work permit that is nearing expiration
Submit pr application through an economic class program (eg: expressr enty, pnp)
It is meant to fill the gap so that you are not in limbo while you wait for your IRCC decision.
What is the BOWP processing time?
The BOWP application processing time is around 2 to 3 months (60-90 days) with IRCC. But that may be divergenced with:
Number of Applications: The more applications they have (especially during summer), the longer it takes.
Application Completeness: Delays can result from absent documents.
The Way You Apply: Online applications typically get pushed through the system quicker than paper applications.
For safety, we advise applying 4 months in advance of your current work authorization expiration.
Factors Impacting BOWP Processing Time
Eligibility Check
IRCC needs to confirm that:
This means you have submitted your PR application (AOR has to be in your hands already).
In four months, your current work permit will be expiring.
You have status in Canada.
Your application could be refused due to missing or incorrect information, which brings everything to a halt.
Application Errors
Errors—outdated form, wrong signature, expired passport—may cause delays in processing. One of the common reasons for rejection is forgetting to attach your AOR of PR application for instance.
IRCC’s Workload
Demand for immigration processing is volatile, and government processing speeds can change suddenly as a result of policy changes, resource deployment changes or unanticipated influxes of applications.
How to Check Your BOWP Status
You can get an update on your application status using:
IRCC Online Portal: With the link of your app to your GCKey account, track your updates.
Estimate directly from IRCC: IRCC’s Processing Time Tool.
If your application is taking longer than normal you can fill out a web form here. We help our clients in getting in touch with IRCC if faced with unnecessary delays.
Tips to Avoid Delays
Apply Early: You should apply no less than 4 months before the expiration of your current work permit.
Carefully Check Your Documents: Use IRCC’s document checklist, or have an expert review your application samples.
Online Application: The quicker option compared to submitting a paper application.
Watch for any Email: IRCC can ask for more information – be responsive to prevent further delays.
What happen when your work permit expires while you are waiting for a BOWP?
If you have not received a decision before your work permit expires, you must cease working immediately. But, as long as you applied while your permit was still valid, you can stay in Canada under maintained status (previously implied status).
At GreenHill Immigration, we assist clients to navigate these scenarios with confidence to help mitigate the risk of job disruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there any way I can expedite the processing time for my BOWP?
A: Not typically IRCC does not fast track BOWP unless there are humanitarian needs around it. To prevent the most stress, apply early.
Q: What happens if my PR application is rejected after I receive a BOWP?
Q: I plan to use my BOWP (bridging open work permit) after I am qualify to apply for PR, does that mean I can stay in Canada while waiting for PR?
A: Your BOWP continues to be valid until expired, so you’ll have to either pursue other immigration or leave Canada.
Why You Should Partner With GreenHill Immigration
It is not complex to apply for a BOWP, however, errors can be very expensive. What GreenHill Immigration does to help:
Check your docs for accuracy!
✅ Realistic timelines based on the trends at the time.
✅ Providing emergency assistance if you are in danger of being deactivated due to delays
Want expert help? So, reach out to GreenHill immigration and get your BOWP without any hassle!
A few other benefits of a seamless BOWP application is that instead of stressing out while waiting to hear back about your PR application, you can go ahead and work here with much more security — Smooth sailing until PR. Be Informed, Be Prepared and Let Us Take You Through The Process! 🚀
