WP
Work continuity
A bridging open work permit helps eligible principal applicants keep working in Canada while their PR application is being processed.
What is a BOWP?
A BOWP can help eligible principal applicants keep working in Canada while their permanent residence application is processed.
Work permit bridge
CA
Inside Canada focus
This is mainly for people who are already in Canada and need to protect their ability to work legally during processing.
PR
PR-linked strategy
This is not a stand-alone immigration route. It works as part of a broader permanent residence journey.
Main eligibility points
You usually need to be in Canada, have qualifying worker status, and already have a complete PR application.
Eligibility summary
1
Be in Canada
The principal applicant should be living in Canada and, for this route, intend to live outside Quebec.
2
Valid worker status
The person should have a valid work permit, maintained worker status, or be eligible to restore status.
3
Complete PR application
The person must be the principal applicant and must already have submitted a complete permanent residence application that passed completeness checks.
4
Acknowledgement of receipt
The client should have the AOR because it forms a key part of the BOWP support documents.
Where confusion usually happens
Many applicants mix up an Express Entry profile with an actual permanent residence application. That difference matters for BOWP.
Important warning
EE
Common eligible PR programs
BOWP is commonly used with Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program applications. Some other programs may have their own bridging-permit rules.
!
Important caution
Submitting an Express Entry profile is not the same as submitting a PR application. Do not wait until the current work permit is about to expire.
Practical planning checklist
Check status, PR stage and documents before you file, so you do not leave a gap in work authorization.
Action steps
✓
Review your current statusCheck the exact expiry date of the current work permit and your ability to maintain or restore status.
✓
Confirm the PR stageMake sure the permanent residence file was actually submitted and that the client has the acknowledgement of receipt.
✓
Gather support documentsPrepare the AOR and the normal work permit document checklist items before submission.
✓
Submit before status issues ariseTiming matters. The page encourages early planning rather than last-minute filings.
Frequently asked questions
Strong FAQ structure makes the page practical and consultation-ready.
Status clarity
Can I apply for a BOWP with only an Express Entry profile?+
No. A profile in the pool is not enough. A complete permanent residence application must already be submitted.
Is this mainly for people already in Canada?+
Yes. The BOWP is designed to help eligible applicants continue working while waiting for PR results.
Do I need the acknowledgement of receipt?+
In most cases, yes. It is an important supporting document for the BOWP application.
Need help before your work permit expires?
SIA Immigration can check BOWP eligibility, current status, supporting documents and the best filing timeline so you do not miss an important deadline.
