Maple News reports that, effective August 31, 2021, temporary foreign workers residing in Quebec and selected as skilled workers by the province are now eligible to apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP), offering greater flexibility and job security while awaiting permanent residency.
The Bridging Open Work Permit allows eligible individuals to work for any employer in Canada while their permanent residence application is under review by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This move aligns Quebec with the federal framework already in place for skilled worker applicants in other provinces.
To qualify for a BOWP, applicants must meet two key requirements: they must have submitted a Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) application for permanent residence as principal applicants, and they must have received an official Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC. The AOR confirms that the application has passed an initial completeness check, verifying that all required forms, supporting documents, signatures, and fees are included.
Spouses or common-law partners listed in the permanent residence application are also eligible for open work permits, further supporting the economic integration of immigrant families into Quebec’s labor market.
IRCC has acknowledged that processing times for Quebec skilled worker applications can extend up to 24 months or more. To streamline access to employment during this period, approved BOWPs will initially be valid for 24 months or until the applicant’s passport expires, whichever is shorter. If needed, extensions can be granted for an additional 12 months, with IRCC officers retaining discretion based on current processing timelines.
This policy provides multiple benefits not just to applicants, but also to Quebec and Canada’s broader economy. It ensures individuals remain actively employed, contributing to the labor force and local communities rather than staying idle or returning home while waiting for status updates.
According to Maple News, this new measure represents an important step in making the immigration process more inclusive and supportive for newcomers selected by Quebec. By facilitating continued work and stability, Canada reinforces its commitment to attract and retain global talent in all regions.