What is a bridging work permit?

A bridging work permit is a type of work permit allows you to continue working while you wait for the results of your permanent residence application.

Who can apply for a bridging work permit?

You may be eligible for a bridging work permit if:

• you applied for permanent residence;
• your current work permit expires in 4 months or less;
• you have valid status on your work permit; and,
• you are currently in Canada.

Furthermore, you must have applied for one of the following programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Canadian Experience Class
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Provincial Nominee Program, if there are no employment restrictions as conditions of your nomination
• Caring for Children Class
• Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class

Who is not allowed to apply for a bridging work permit?

You may not be able to apply for a bridging work permit if:

• You are out of status;
• You are work permit-exempt in Canada;
• Your work permit is valid for more than 4 months;
• You have a new LMIA that can be used in a new work permit application;
• You are applying for a bridging work permit at the port of entry.
• You are the spouse or dependant of a principal applicant for permanent residency; or
• You are a provincial nominee and (a) your nomination letter specifically indicates employment restrictions, or (b) you failed to submit a copy of your nomination letter together with your application for a bridging work permit.

How long is the processing time and what are the application fees?

Processing times vary depending on how you submit your application (online or paper) and how long the queue is. It may take between 60 t0 100 days.

The application fee for a bridging work permit is C$255. Biometrics may be required.

What are the key considerations in submitting an application?

The requirements might look simple on paper, but often applications are rejected because the documents submitted were inaccurate, incomplete, or non-compliant. Here are some key considerations when applying for a bridging work permit in Canada:

• How do you determine that you meet all the requirements to qualify for a bridging work permit?
• What if you are only eligible to apply for permanent residency at the expiry of your original work permit?
• How can you strengthen your application?