A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) can let an eligible permanent residence applicant continue working in Canada while IRCC processes their application. Eligibility depends on the PR program, the application stage and the applicant’s status. An Express Entry profile or invitation alone is insufficient.

Requirements reviewed October 17, 2026. The corrections below replace earlier statements that restoration applicants were excluded and that a BOWP expired on the previous permit’s expiry date.

Eligibility Requirements

For Express Entry, the principal applicant must live in Canada, intend to reside outside Quebec, have an AOR, and have submitted a complete PR application that passes the completeness check. They must hold valid worker status, have maintained status as a worker, or qualify to restore status and obtain a work permit. For provincial nominees, the nomination must have no employment restrictions; non-Express Entry PNP applications must also pass the PR eligibility assessment. Other eligible PR categories have their own requirements. Check IRCC’s requirements for your PR category.

When to Apply and Working While You Wait

Apply before your current permit expires whenever you are eligible. A timely, complete work-permit extension application may preserve your status and permission to work under your existing conditions while you remain in Canada. A PR application or AOR alone does not create maintained status. Applying shortly before expiry does not, by itself, remove protection; whether the application was validly submitted on time and the applicable conditions are met is what matters. IRCC: working during processing.

If your status has expired, restoration may be possible, generally within 90 days and subject to the restoration requirements. Restoration does not authorize work while awaiting approval. Stop working unless you have a separate valid authorization. IRCC: restoration requirements.

Permit Validity and Conditions

Follow the expiry date and conditions on the permit IRCC issues. A BOWP is not limited to the expiry date of the previous permit, and should not be described as automatically lasting until the PR decision. Open permits can still carry conditions, including medical-related restrictions. Review any IRCC notice affecting your permit or PR application promptly. IRCC: work-permit conditions and validity.

Documents and Application

Use the checklist for your category. It may require your AOR, passport, current or previous permit, nomination letter and proof supporting maintained status or restoration. Most applications are online. Do not submit an incomplete application assuming that an AOR alone proves eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply after my permit expires?

Potentially, if you meet the relevant BOWP rules and have maintained worker status or qualify for restoration. Eligibility to apply and permission to keep working are separate questions.

Does any PR application qualify?

No. Review IRCC’s program-specific list. Sponsored spouses and partners have separate open-work-permit pathways. The Atlantic Immigration Program also has a separate work-permit option. IRCC: work permits for PR applicants.

How VGIS Can Help

Dimple Verma, RCIC-IRB #R708308, helps applicants review their PR stage, status, work authorization and supporting documents. Book a paid consultation before relying on a proposed work-permit transition.

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Disclaimer: This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration laws and IRCC policies change frequently. For advice specific to your case, please book a paid consultation with our licensed RCIC-IRB. VG Immigration Services Inc. — Dimple Verma, RCIC-IRB #R708308.