Can I get a BOWP while waiting for PR?
Hey everyone,
Just wanted to check in with folks in the same boat — waiting for PR approval while my work permit is about to expire. I’m in the Federal Skilled Worker Program, submitted my application over 6 months ago. My current work permit expires in 3 weeks, and I’m starting to panic about losing status.
I’ve heard about Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP), but I’m not sure if I qualify. My main concern is not losing work authorization during the PR processing gap. I’ve checked my AOR, and I’m still in valid status — but I need to know if I can apply before my current permit runs out.
Here’s what I’m trying to figure out:
1. Am I eligible for a BOWP if I’m in the Express Entry pool and my application is under review?
2. Does it matter if my current work permit is employer-specific or open?
3. If I apply for BOWP after my permit expires, can I still get approval?
4. Should I notify my employer now, or wait until I get the BOWP?
I know timing is everything — and if I miss the window, I could end up in an unauthorized status. I’ve seen posts where people got BOWP approval even after their permit expired, but I’m not sure how common that is.
Also, I’m in Ontario and my PR application is in the "Processing" stage. I don’t have a job offer, but I’m not on a temporary resident visa either — I’m on a work permit tied to my previous job. I’ve been wondering if that affects eligibility.
Has anyone else applied for BOWP while waiting for PR? What province were you in? How long did your PR processing take? Any tips on how to keep things smooth?
Feel free to share your situation — just don’t post your passport number, UCI, or bank details. We’re all in this together.
Just wanted to check in with folks in the same boat — waiting for PR approval while my work permit is about to expire. I’m in the Federal Skilled Worker Program, submitted my application over 6 months ago. My current work permit expires in 3 weeks, and I’m starting to panic about losing status.
I’ve heard about Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP), but I’m not sure if I qualify. My main concern is not losing work authorization during the PR processing gap. I’ve checked my AOR, and I’m still in valid status — but I need to know if I can apply before my current permit runs out.
Here’s what I’m trying to figure out:
1. Am I eligible for a BOWP if I’m in the Express Entry pool and my application is under review?
2. Does it matter if my current work permit is employer-specific or open?
3. If I apply for BOWP after my permit expires, can I still get approval?
4. Should I notify my employer now, or wait until I get the BOWP?
I know timing is everything — and if I miss the window, I could end up in an unauthorized status. I’ve seen posts where people got BOWP approval even after their permit expired, but I’m not sure how common that is.
Also, I’m in Ontario and my PR application is in the "Processing" stage. I don’t have a job offer, but I’m not on a temporary resident visa either — I’m on a work permit tied to my previous job. I’ve been wondering if that affects eligibility.
Has anyone else applied for BOWP while waiting for PR? What province were you in? How long did your PR processing take? Any tips on how to keep things smooth?
Feel free to share your situation — just don’t post your passport number, UCI, or bank details. We’re all in this together.
First, you must already hold a valid work permit or study permit that’s about to expire. The BOWP is meant to bridge that gap, so it’s not available if you’re in Canada on a visitor visa or without a valid permit.
Second, your PR application must be submitted under a program that allows for a BOWP—most common ones are the Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, and some family-sponsored streams. Not all PR pathways qualify.
A common pitfall is applying too late. The BOWP must be applied for before your current work permit expires. Also, your PR application must be *complete* and *received* by IRCC before you apply for the BOWP.
To give you a more accurate answer, could you share:
1) Your current province of residence,
2) Your current immigration status (e.g., study permit, work permit),
3) The timeline of your PR application?
Please don’t include personal IDs or sensitive details in your reply.