Eligibility Criteria for Bridging Open Work Permit
Understanding the BOWP
A bridging open work permit (BOWP) is a type of work permit that allows foreign nationals to keep working in Canada while they await the results of their permanent residence application. The BOWP is intended to bridge the gap between the expiry of the foreign national’s current work permit and the final decision on their permanent residence application.
Qualifying for BOWP Under Various Programs
To be eligible for a BOWP, foreign nationals must meet the following criteria:
- Be currently in Canada after being authorized to enter as a temporary resident
- Have valid status on a work permit, or have recently completed a job that was authorized under a work permit
- Have applied for permanent residence under one of the following programs: Express Entry, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program, Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Worker, Agri-Food Pilot, Caring for Children Class, Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class, or Federal Skilled Trades Program
Maintaining Status While Awaiting Decision
Foreign nationals must maintain their status in Canada while they await the decision on their permanent residence application. This means that they must continue to meet the requirements of their temporary resident status, including working only for an employer and in a position that is authorized under their work permit.
It is important to note that the BOWP is not available to all permanent residence applicants. Foreign nationals who have applied for permanent residence under certain programs, such as the Start-up Visa Program or the Self-Employed Persons Program, are not eligible for a BOWP.
In conclusion, foreign nationals who meet the eligibility criteria for a BOWP can apply for this type of work permit to bridge the gap between the expiry of their current work permit and the final decision on their permanent residence application. By maintaining their status in Canada and meeting the requirements of their temporary resident status, they can continue to work and live in Canada while they await their permanent residence decision.
Application Process for BOWP
To apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP), applicants must follow a few simple steps. The application process involves gathering necessary documents, completing the online application, and paying the required fees and biometrics.
Gathering Necessary Documents
Before starting the online application, applicants must gather all the necessary documents. These documents include a valid passport, proof of legal status in Canada, a valid job offer letter, and a copy of the Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) letter from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Completing the Online Application
To apply for a BOWP, applicants must complete the online application on the IRCC website. Applicants must create an online account and use their personal reference code to access their application. They must also provide accurate information about their job offer, employer, and their current work permit.
Applicants must also upload all the required supporting documents, such as their passport, job offer letter, and AOR letter. They must ensure that they have completed the document checklist and have included all the required documents.
Paying Fees and Biometrics
To complete the application process, applicants must pay the required fees and biometrics. The fees include the Open Work Permit Holder fee, the Work Permit Processing fee, and the Biometrics fee. The fees can be paid online using a credit card or debit card.
Once the fees have been paid, applicants must book an appointment to provide their biometrics at a designated biometrics collection center. They must provide their biometrics within 30 days of receiving the Biometrics Instruction Letter.
In conclusion, applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit in Canada is a straightforward process. By following the steps outlined above, applicants can ensure that their application is complete and accurate, which will increase their chances of success.
After Submitting Your BOWP Application
Once an individual has submitted their application for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP), there are a few important things to keep in mind. This section will cover understanding processing times, staying informed on application status, and preparing for possible outcomes.
Understanding Processing Times
Processing times for BOWP applications can vary depending on a number of factors, including the volume of applications being processed at the time of submission and the complexity of the case. It is important to note that processing times are estimates and may change without notice.
Applicants can check the current processing times for BOWP applications on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. It is recommended that applicants check the processing times regularly and plan accordingly.
Staying Informed on Application Status
After submitting a BOWP application, applicants will receive an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AoR) letter from IRCC. This letter confirms that the application has been received and is being processed. The letter will include an application number that can be used to track the status of the application online.
It is important to keep the contact information in the application up to date, as IRCC may need to contact the applicant for additional information or documents. Applicants should also regularly check their online account for any updates on the application status.
Preparing for Possible Outcomes
After submitting a BOWP application, there are a few possible outcomes. The application may be approved, refused, or additional information may be requested.
If the application is approved, the applicant will receive a new work permit that allows them to continue working in Canada while their permanent residency application is being processed. It is important to note that the BOWP is a temporary solution and does not guarantee permanent residency.
If the application is refused, the applicant may need to leave Canada once their current work permit expires. It is important to have a backup plan in case the BOWP application is refused.
If additional information is requested, the applicant should provide the requested information as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing.
Overall, it is important to maintain valid temporary resident status and keep track of the processing times and application status when applying for a BOWP. By staying informed and prepared, applicants can increase their chances of a successful outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the eligibility requirements for a Canadian Bridging Open Work Permit?
To be eligible for a Canadian Bridging Open Work Permit, an individual must have a valid work permit that is set to expire in four months or less. Additionally, they must have applied for permanent residency under the Economic Class, such as through Express Entry.
How can I convert my current work permit to permanent residency in Canada?
To convert a current work permit to permanent residency in Canada, an individual must apply through one of the economic immigration programs. They must meet the eligibility requirements for the program and submit a complete application along with all required documents.
What is the processing time for a Bridging Open Work Work Permit?
The processing time for a Bridging Open Work Permit varies depending on the individual’s circumstances and the workload of the immigration office processing the application. However, IRCC aims to process most applications within 4-5 months.
Is a job offer required to apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit in Canada?
No, a job offer is not required to apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit in Canada. However, individuals must have a valid work permit and must have applied for permanent residency under the Economic Class.
Can a spouse apply for an Open Work Permit while being sponsored for PR in Canada?
Yes, a spouse can apply for an Open Work Permit while being sponsored for permanent residency in Canada. The spouse must meet the eligibility requirements for the Open Work Permit and must submit a complete application along with all required documents.
What are the fees associated with applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit?
The fees associated with applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit include the work permit processing fee and the open work permit holder fee. The current fees are $155 and $100, respectively. It is important to note that these fees are subject to change and individuals should check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date fee information.