In Canada, as permanent residency (PR) applications are processed, many temporary foreign workers seek ways to maintain legal status and continue working. Two pathways help bridge this gap: Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP) and Bridging Closed Work Permits (BCWP). Understanding the differences between these two types is essential if you’re in the middle of a PR application or considering your next steps in Canada.
This guide explains how each permit works, who qualifies, key differences, and how an immigration lawyer in Canada can help you choose the best option for your situation, especially with the Work Permit Changes 2025 expected to influence application outcomes and processing times.
A Closer Look at Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP)
Bridging Open Work Permits are designed for individuals who have submitted an eligible PR application and want to continue working while they wait for a decision. Unlike closed permits, a BOWP allows applicants to work for any employer in Canada without a specific job offer.
Who Can Qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit?
To qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP), applicants must meet specific criteria under Canada’s immigration regulations. This permit falls under the International Mobility Program, specifically the LMIA exemption code A75, as outlined in IRPR s.205(a).
1. You must currently be in Canada and hold valid temporary resident status (as per IRPA s.22).
2. You must either possess a valid work permit, have maintained status with work authorization (under IRPR s.186(u)), or be eligible to restore your temporary resident status and be authorized to work with a work permit.
3. You must be the principal applicant on a permanent residence (PR) application. Your PR application must have been submitted under one of the following programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), provided your nomination does not have employer restrictions.
- Agri-Food Pilot.
- Quebec Skilled Worker Class (QSWC).
- Home Child Care Provider Pilot (HCCPP) or Home Support Worker Pilot (HSWP).
4. Your permanent residence application must have successfully passed a completeness check, or you must have received an acknowledgement of receipt (AoR). For Express Entry applications (FSW, CEC, FST, or Express Entry-linked PNP), your e-APR must have cleared the R.10 completeness check. For applications submitted via the PR Portal, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) must have provided a positive eligibility assessment.
5. The BOWP application must be submitted online, unless there are specific exemptions.
When You’re Not Eligible for a BOWP
Not every applicant qualifies. You are not eligible if:
- Foreign nationals already exempt from a work permit under IRPR 186 cannot obtain a BOWP.
- Applicants at a Port of Entry or visa office are not eligible for a BOWP, meaning no “flagpoling” for this permit.
- Spouses and dependent children of the principal applicant are not eligible for a BOWP and must seek other work permit categories.
- Individuals inadmissible to Canada are not eligible for a BOWP.
Special Case: Provincial Nominees and BOWP
To be eligible for a BOWP, foreign nationals nominated under a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) must:
- Submit a provincial or territorial nomination letter confirming unrestricted employment.
- Indicate “Open Work Permit” on their application.
- Demonstrate their permanent residence application has passed a completeness check or received an AoR and meet all other BOWP criteria.
- Maintain their intention to reside temporarily or show dual intent.
Advantages of Holding a Bridging Open Work Permit
There are clear benefits to having a BOWP:
- You can switch employers freely.
- You are not bound to a specific job or province
- Allows you to maintain your legal status and work authorization until your permanent residency is finalized.
These advantages make Bridging Open Work Permits ideal for professionals seeking mobility and job flexibility in Canada’s competitive job market.
What Is a Bridging Closed Work Permit?
In contrast, Bridging Closed Work Permits are employer-specific and are issued under the International Mobility Program, specifically under IRPR s.204(c) and LMIA Exemption Code T13. These permits apply when a provincial nomination is tied to a specific employer.
Bridging Closed Work Permits require the applicant to remain with the same employer listed in their nomination until PR is granted. This ensures consistency between the job offer and the PR process.
How Do You Know If You Need a Bridging Closed Work Permit?
A Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nomination may list a specific employer, occupation, or National Occupational Classification (NOC) code, yet still signify no restrictions on employment. If the nomination is indeed unrestricted, applicants are eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP), provided they meet all other qualifying conditions.
However, if the nomination contains employment restrictions, the applicant must first obtain an R.204(c) letter. Additionally, the designated employer must have submitted an Offer of Employment through the Employer Portal before the applicant can submit their application for an employer-specific work permit, which will bridge their status until permanent residence is granted.
Eligibility for an Employer-Specific Work Permit for Provincial Nominees (LMIA Exemption T13)
To qualify for this type of work permit, applicants must satisfy the following criteria:
- You must possess a valid, unexpired PNP nomination from a province (excluding Quebec) or provide evidence that your permanent residence application was submitted before your nomination certificate’s expiry date.
- You are required to have an R.204(c) letter of support from the nominating province. This letter must confirm an urgent need for your immediate employment before obtaining permanent residency, affirm the job’s authenticity and economic benefit, and verify that the position is full-time with appropriate wages and working conditions.
- The employer specified in your nomination must have properly submitted an Offer of Employment through the Employer Portal. This includes the employer receiving an A number, paying the $230 employer compliance fee, and obtaining an O#. It’s important to note that the applicant is not responsible for submitting this employer offer or paying the employer’s compliance fee.
- You must demonstrate that you are qualified for the specific job and provide proof of either temporary intent or dual intent to reside in Canada.
When Is a Bridging Closed Work Permit Not an Option?
You are not eligible if:
- Applications missing any required documents, including the employer’s portal offer, will be refused.
- Employers on the non-compliant list cannot support this type of work permit.
- Applicants unable to demonstrate their qualifications for the job offer will be rejected.
Changing Employers Under PNP: What You Should Know
This frequently asked question lacks a simple solution. It is advisable to schedule a legal consultation to address the unique details of your situation. The risks associated with switching employers include, but are not limited to:
- The new employer might not meet the eligibility criteria of the specific Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream under which you were initially nominated.
- The provincial government may not permit your change of employers.
- The alteration in your employment could disqualify you from permanent residence.
To know more, get in touch with us.
Key Features of a Bridging Closed Work Permit
Here’s what makes Bridging Closed Work Permits distinct:
- Work authorization is restricted to the employer specified in the nomination.
- This type of work authorization is necessary when your PNP nomination includes employer-specific conditions.
Comparing Bridging Open Work Permits vs. Bridging Closed Work Permits
| Type of Application | Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) – LMIA Exempt | Bridging Closed Work Permit – LMIA Exempt |
| Employer Restriction on Nomination | No, allows work for any employer | Yes, employment is limited to one specific employer |
| Eligibility Stream | Federal PR programs, or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nominations that do not have employer restrictions | Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nominations that are employer-restricted |
| Flexibility | High. Offers freedom to change jobs | Low. Tied to a specific employer and role, changing employers is very challenging and may risk your nomination or PR application |
| When to Submit | Requires prior submission of a complete permanent residence (PR) application | It can sometimes be submitted before a PR application, but only if the nomination is still valid. Provinces may suspend a nomination if the employer withdraws their job offer or if an investigation is underway. Can be submitted after PR application if the current WP is expiring. May be submitted with an expired nomination if proof of PR application receipt from IRCC is provided before the nomination expires. |
| Spouses | Spouses or common-law partners cannot obtain a BOWP directly; they must qualify for a work permit under standard eligibility rules. | Spouses or common-law partners of a principal applicant nominated by a Province may apply for an LMIA-exempt open work permit under administrative code C41, but should verify spousal work permit eligibility after January 21, 2025. Dependent children are not eligible for open work permits and must meet general work permit criteria. |
| Purpose | For specific PR applicants already in Canada with valid temporary resident status and work authorization who need to extend their work permit. | For certain PR applicants with employer-restricted nominations where employers have submitted an Employer Portal Offer and the Province has issued an R.204(c) letter; enables applicants to extend their work permit with the designated employer. |
When Should You Choose Each Type of Permit?
Choose a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) if:
Your PR application has passed its completeness check (AoR) under a Federal Express Entry stream or an unrestricted PNP nomination, and you meet the BOWP’s principal applicant eligibility.
Choose an Employer-Specific Work Permit (often called “Bridging Closed Work Permit”) if:
Your PNP nomination is employer-restricted, and your employer has submitted an LMIA-exempt Offer of Employment via the Employer Portal, receiving an A#. The Province has provided an R.204(c) support letter for your work.
Choose an LMIA-supported Closed Work Permit if:
You do not qualify for a bridging work permit. This requires your employer to advertise, apply for an LMIA with the ESDC (involving a $ 1,000 fee and a lengthy processing period), and receive approval with you as a named worker. Complex circumstances regarding status changes pending an LMIA decision necessitate legal advice.
Why It Helps to Have an Immigration Lawyer in Canada?
An experienced immigration lawyer in Canada can review your PR application, nomination letters, and work permit conditions to ensure you apply for the correct permit. With the Work Permit Changes 2025 potentially impacting eligibility and processing timelines, legal guidance can help avoid delays or denials.
An experienced lawyer can help you make sense of Open Work Permits vs. Bridging Closed Work Permits and secure your work status.
Final Thoughts
Both Bridging Open Work Permits and Bridging Closed Work Permits serve vital roles in Canada’s immigration process. The right choice depends on your PR pathway, your employer status, and the conditions of your nomination.
If you’re applying for a Canada Investor Visa or a PNP stream, understanding your bridging options is essential. Talk to an immigration professional to make the best choice for your future in Canada. Call 416-447-6118 today.
FAQs
What is the difference between a closed work permit and an open work permit?
A closed work permit ties you to a specific employer, meaning you cannot switch jobs without a new permit. An open work permit allows you to work for almost any employer in Canada, offering more flexibility and freedom during your stay.
What is a bridging open work permit compared to a closed work permit?
A Bridging Open Work Permit allows applicants awaiting PR decisions to work for any employer. A Bridging Closed Work Permit restricts work to a specific employer, usually linked to a PNP nomination. The choice depends on your immigration stream and job offer conditions.
Which is better: an open or closed work permit?
It depends on your goals. An open work permit offers more flexibility and is preferred if you want to explore job opportunities. A closed work permit is suitable for applicants tied to a specific employer, especially under PNP.
What are the two main types of work permits in Canada?
The two main types are open work permits and employer-specific (closed) work permits. Bridging versions of both exist for PR applicants who need to maintain their legal work status.
Can I convert a closed work permit to an open work permit in Canada?
You can switch to an open work permit if you meet the eligibility for a Bridging Open Work Permit or qualify under another open permit category. This usually requires a new application and meeting specific criteria.
Can I apply for PR with a closed work permit?
Yes, many applicants with a closed work permit, especially under PNP, apply for PR. The work permit supports your stay and employment while the application is processed, but you must remain with the employer listed on the permit.
