Canadian Immigration News

Quebec Temporary Foreign Workers Are Now Eligible for the Bridging Open Work Permit

1.5 minute read
"The Quebec government recently announced a way for temporary foreign workers to maintain their status by applying for the Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). The BOWP for spouses and common-law partners under the Spousal Sponsorship program will now be available to temporary workers in Quebec if they meet the set requirements."
Written by My Visa Source Team
Published on:  Oct 8, 2021
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The Quebec government recently announced a way for temporary foreign workers to maintain their status by applying for the Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). The BOWP for spouses and common-law partners under the Spousal Sponsorship program will now be available to temporary workers in Quebec if they meet the set requirements.

Initially announced in May, and after months of discussion between the Quebec and federal government, it was finally open for applications on September 1, 2021. For more details on immigration programs, see Quebec Immigration.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for the BOWP in Quebec?

Temporary workers in Quebec must meet the following requirements to be eligible for a BOWP:

  • Have a valid Quebec Certificate of Selection (CSQ)
  • Be the principal applicant in your application for permanent residence
  • Pass the completeness check for permanent residence
  • Either has a valid work permit or an expired work permit with maintained status or be eligible to restore status as a worker
  • Intend to live in Quebec

You need to submit the following documents for your BOWP application:

  • The supporting documents listed in your checklist
  • A copy of your CSQ
  • A copy of your acknowledgment receipt letter from the IRCC to demonstrate that your application was complete

Why Was the BOWP for Temporary Workers in Quebec Introduced?

In August, both the federal and Quebec government gave their support to provide the BOWP to temporary workers in Quebec. This was because there was a mounting shortage of workers in Quebec to maintain its economic growth. However, despite this measure, employers in Quebec are pushing for increased immigration levels to meet the labor market shortages.

The number of immigrants coming to Quebec for the last 6 years has never gone above 53,000. However, the Quebec employers group wants the government to consider welcoming 60,000 newcomers this year. While this new measure will increase worker mobility across different sectors, more such actions are needed to satisfy the needs of the local labor market.

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