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Working in Canada

Bridging Open Work Permit

Keeps you working while IRCC decides your permanent residence application.

OpenStatus checked Nov 7, 2026

Open to eligible permanent residence applicants whose work permit is about to expire.

IMP

Key requirements

  • You applied for permanent residence through an eligible economic program.
  • Your current work permit is about to expire, or you have maintained status.
  • You are in Canada and are the principal applicant.

Related pathways

Open

Express Entry

The main federal route to permanent residence for skilled workers, through the Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class and Federal Skilled Trades programs. You create a profile and IRCC invites the highest-ranked candidates.

Open. IRCC is recalculating every profile under the new CRS rules from November 3, 2026, and rounds resume once that is done.

All pathways

Statuses change, sometimes with little notice. Always confirm on the official page before you apply. This is general information, not legal advice.