HomeImmigration StepsBridging open work permit (BOWP)

Bridging open work permit (BOWP)

Lets people who applied for permanent residence keep working in Canada while they wait for the decision. For Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec skilled workers and some other programs.

Open

Who it is for (summary)

You live in Canada with valid status and a valid work permit (or maintained status).
You are the principal applicant, your PR application passed the completeness check, and you have the acknowledgement of receipt (AOR).

Step-by-step checklist

0 of 4 done

1. Confirm your program can use itWhat to expect: IRCC’s page lists the PR programs. It is not available for the Home Care Worker Immigration pilots opened in 2025.
2. Gather documentsWhat to expect: Your AOR letter, plus your nomination letter (PNP) or CSQ (Quebec) if they apply.
3. Apply onlineWhat to expect: Follow the instructions to extend or change your work permit and choose “Open work permit”.
4. Pay and waitWhat to expect: Pay the work permit fee and the open work permit holder fee.

Documents you usually need

Acknowledgement of receipt (AOR) letter
Provincial nomination letter (PNP) or CSQ (Quebec), if they apply
Current work permit

Government fees

CAD

Work permit	$155
Open work permit holder fee	$100

Fees as listed by IRCC on 2026-10-30. Fees change; always check the official fee list. IRCC fee list ↗

After you apply

If you applied before your permit expired, you can usually keep working under the same conditions while you wait (maintained status).

Processing times change every week. Check today’s times on IRCC’s official tool. Check processing times ↗

Official sources:

Bridging open work permit (IRCC) ↗

Checked against IRCC pages on 2026-10-30.

General information only. This is not legal advice and does not check whether you are eligible. Your own checklist in your IRCC account is what counts. Last checked 2026-10-30.

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