Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) Checklist for 2026
By WelcomeAide Team
What Is a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?
A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is a special type of open work permit designed for foreign nationals who are in Canada on a valid work permit and have submitted an application for permanent residence. The BOWP "bridges" the gap between the expiry of your current work permit and the final decision on your permanent residence application, allowing you to continue working legally in Canada without interruption.
The BOWP is an open work permit, meaning you can work for any employer in Canada — you are not tied to a specific employer like you might be with an employer-specific work permit. This gives you flexibility to change jobs, take on additional work, or explore new career opportunities while your PR application is being processed.
Official IRCC information: Bridging Open Work Permit — IRCC.
Who Is Eligible for a BOWP?
To qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- You are currently in Canada
- You hold a valid work permit (or your work permit has been extended through implied status — meaning you applied to extend before it expired)
- You have submitted an application for permanent residence under one of these programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (Express Entry)
- Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (Express Entry)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
- Agri-Food Pilot
- Caregiver programs
- Your PR application has passed the eligibility/completeness check — meaning IRCC has confirmed they received a complete application (you typically receive an Acknowledgement of Receipt or AOR)
- Your current work permit will expire within 4 months OR has already expired but you have maintained implied status
What Is Implied Status?
If your work permit is about to expire and you applied to extend it (or applied for a BOWP) before the expiry date, you are considered to have "implied status." This means you can continue working under the same conditions as your previous work permit until a decision is made on your new application. This is a critical concept — it means you do not become unauthorized to work as long as you applied on time.
Why the BOWP Is Important
Permanent residence applications can take 6 to 18 months or longer to process. Without a BOWP, you could face a situation where your work permit expires while your PR application is still pending, leaving you unable to work. The BOWP solves this problem by providing continuous work authorization.
Additional benefits of the BOWP:
- Open work permit: Work for any employer, giving you career flexibility
- Continuous employment: No gaps in employment that could affect your income, benefits, or PR application
- Access to provincial health insurance: Maintaining a valid work permit often means continued access to provincial health coverage
- Peace of mind: Knowing your work status is secure while waiting for PR
How to Apply — Complete Checklist
Documents You Need
Gather the following before starting your application:
- Valid passport — must be valid for the duration of the BOWP you are requesting
- Current work permit — a copy of your existing work permit
- Proof of PR application submission — your Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter from IRCC, or your online application status showing the application has been received
- UCI (Unique Client Identifier) number — found on your AOR or previous IRCC correspondence
- Application number for your PR application
- Passport-sized photos meeting IRCC specifications
- IMM 5710 — Application to Change Conditions, Extend My Stay, or Remain in Canada as a Worker — this is the main form
- IMM 5645 — Family Information Form
- Employer compliance fee exemption proof — BOWPs are exempt from the $230 employer compliance fee
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Log into your IRCC online account: IRCC portal
- Start a new application for a work permit extension
- Select the BOWP category: When asked about the type of work permit, indicate you are applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit
- Complete Form IMM 5710: Fill out all sections carefully. In the employer section, indicate "open work permit" since you are not tied to a specific employer
- Upload supporting documents: Passport copy, current work permit, AOR letter, photos, and any other requested documents
- Pay the fees:
- Work permit processing fee: $155 CAD
- Open work permit holder fee: $100 CAD
- Biometrics (if applicable): $85 CAD
- Total: $255-$340 CAD
- Submit your application and note the confirmation number
Processing Times
BOWP processing times vary but are generally 2-4 months as of 2025-2026. You can check current processing times on the IRCC processing times page.
Critical timing tip: Apply for the BOWP at least 4 months before your current work permit expires. This ensures you have implied status even if processing takes longer than expected.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying too late: If your work permit expires before you apply, you lose implied status and may need to stop working. Apply as soon as you are eligible (within 4 months of your work permit expiry)
- Not having an AOR: You must be able to prove your PR application has been received and passed the completeness check. Submitting a BOWP application before receiving your AOR can result in refusal
- Wrong application form: Use IMM 5710 (in-Canada work permit extension), not IMM 1295 (application from outside Canada)
- Expired passport: Your BOWP cannot be issued beyond your passport expiry date. Renew your passport if it expires within the next year
- Not maintaining status: Ensure you have legal status in Canada when you apply. If your status has lapsed, you may need to apply for restoration of status first
BOWP for Spouses and Dependants
If your spouse or common-law partner is included in your PR application, they may also be eligible for their own open work permit. Depending on your situation:
- Spouses of skilled workers (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) may qualify for a spousal open work permit separately from the BOWP
- If your spouse has their own work permit, they can apply for their own BOWP if they have a separate PR application in progress
- Check specific eligibility on the IRCC website or consult an immigration lawyer
What Happens After BOWP Approval
Once approved:
- You will receive a new work permit document (physical or digital depending on the current process)
- The BOWP is typically valid until your PR application is decided, or for a set period (often 12-24 months)
- You can work for any employer in Canada
- Update your employer with your new work permit information
- Continue to comply with all conditions and maintain your status
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel outside Canada with a BOWP?
Yes, but be cautious. If you leave Canada, you need a valid travel document (visa or eTA) to return. Your BOWP is issued for work in Canada — if you travel and have issues re-entering, your work authorization could be disrupted.
What if my PR application is refused?
If your PR application is refused, your BOWP remains valid until its expiry date. You can continue to work until then, but you should consult an immigration lawyer about your options (reapplying, appeals, etc.).
Can I switch from an employer-specific work permit to BOWP?
Yes — that is one of the primary advantages. Once you receive your BOWP (an open permit), you are free to leave your current employer and work for anyone else.
Key Takeaways
- The BOWP lets you continue working while your permanent residence application is processed
- You need a valid work permit, a submitted PR application, and an AOR to be eligible
- Apply at least 4 months before your current work permit expires
- Fees total $255-$340 CAD; processing takes 2-4 months
- The BOWP is an open work permit — work for any employer
- Applying before your permit expires gives you implied status to keep working
Navigating Life While Your PR Application is Processed
Once you’ve submitted your Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) application and received your acknowledgment of receipt, you can continue working in Canada under implied status until a decision is made. However, your journey doesn't end there. It's crucial to understand what to expect during the processing period for your permanent residency application and how to best prepare for your future in Canada.
First, always keep an eye on the official IRCC website for application processing times. While these are estimates, they provide a general idea of the wait. During this time, it's vital to maintain your legal status and comply with all Canadian laws. If your BOWP is expiring and your PR application is still pending, ensure you understand your options for maintaining legal status in Canada. For personalized guidance and to stay organized, our AI Navigator can help answer your specific questions, and the Settlement Checklist offers a comprehensive guide to all the steps involved in settling in Canada.
Beyond legalities, consider your long-term settlement. Explore different communities, understand the local job market, and continue to build your network. Use our Cost of Living Calculator to budget effectively for your future, ensuring financial stability while you await your PR decision.
Financial Planning and Career Development During Your BOWP
Holding a BOWP provides you with the flexibility to work for almost any employer in Canada, a valuable opportunity to gain Canadian work experience and advance your career. Make the most of this period by focusing on financial stability and professional growth.
Financial Prudence: With your open work permit, you have the freedom to earn, but it's equally important to manage your finances wisely. Start by creating a detailed budget and exploring banking options suitable for newcomers using our Banking Comparison tool. Understanding the Canadian tax system is also essential; our Tax Guide can help you navigate your obligations and potential benefits. Additionally, familiarize yourself with provincial and federal benefits you might be eligible for by using our Benefits Finder. This proactive approach ensures you're financially prepared for any changes and can save effectively.
Career Advancement: Use your BOWP to enhance your professional profile. If you're looking for new opportunities or aiming to refine your existing skills, our Resume Builder can help you craft a Canadian-style resume that stands out to employers. You can also explore job search strategies and understand Canadian workplace culture. The Government of Canada's Job Bank is an excellent resource for finding employment opportunities across the country, providing insights into various industries and roles.
Related Resources
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Related Guides
Official Government Sources
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