BOWP while unemployed

[pigeek]

Hello,

I am on closed work permit which expires only at the end of 2015. I have applied for CEC in June 2014 and got AOR. A few month ago I was laid off and since then I can't find any company that would go for an LMIA. Also as a decision point on my CEC application is getting closer in time, companies are less interested in getting an LMIA for me. They prefer to wait another few months until I'll get a PR, instead of investing in an LMIA process.

I want to try to apply for BOWP. I know that I am not eligible, because I don't meet the "4 months" criteria. However, my question is what the worst case of this try may be? Would it be simply refused or I can screw up my status by doing this?

Thanks.

 

[astasi]

Hello,

I am on closed work permit which expires only at the end of 2015. I have applied for CEC in June 2014 and got AOR. A few month ago I was laid off and since then I can't find any company that would go for an LMIA. Also as a decision point on my CEC application is getting closer in time, companies are less interested in getting an LMIA for me. They prefer to wait another few months until I'll get a PR, instead of investing in an LMIA process.

I want to try to apply for BOWP. I know that I am not eligible, because I don't meet the "4 months" criteria. However, my question is what the worst case of this try may be? Would it be simply refused or I can screw up my status by doing this?

Thanks.

I know at least one person who applied for BOWP with more then 4 months remaining on his closed work permit. The BOWP application was refused but there was no adverse effect on his PR application (he is a PR now).

You can certainly apply for BOWP along with an explanation letter stating your need of a BOWP. I am sure there is nothing to lose except the $150 processing fee.

 

[knnn]

I applied for my BOWP once I received my AOR and my closed work permit was left out with around 10 months. I just sent an explanation letter stating my work experience in my field and my also interest towards working in CA (I was still having a job when I applied for it), luckily I got my BOWP APPROVED.

Again its 50-50 chance, if you are ok with spending 150$ and have some luck you can def give a try. There is nothing to loose (expect for $150) if you don't get it..

 

[pigeek]

Thanks for the replies!

I know that I can stay in Canada until my current WP expires. However, if happened and I have to leave Canada, then on the way back at the port of entry my status may be re-assessed and since I am not employed with the original employer any more, my WP may be revoked.

My concern is if the fact of submission of IMM5710E form may trigger the same re-assessment…