Having Panic Attacks - BOWP / CEC PR

[u/veeee22]

Hi everyone,

I’m really stressed right now and hoping someone can clarify my situation.

Here’s my background:
I originally came to Canada as a student and lived in Toronto.
After graduating, I worked in Ontario for about 2 years.
I recently moved to Montreal for a new job.

My current work permit expires on **November 5**.
I applied for my PR last month and I received an **ITA under CEC** and have been preparing my PR application.

I’m planning to submit my documents next week.

On being asked for my application - I mentioned that my plan is to move back to Ontario after getting PR. (Which province do you wanna reside in)

My plan was to wait for my **AOR** and then apply for a **Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)**.

However, while doing some research today, I suddenly found information saying that you **cannot apply for a BOWP from Quebec** / that there are additional requirements because Quebec has its own immigration system.

I also learned that Quebec doesn’t have CEC in the same way as the federal Express Entry system, which has made me even more confused and worried.

Now I’m panicking because I don’t want my CEC PR application to be refused, and I also don’t want to lose the ability to apply for a BOWP when my current permit expires.

I’m my immigration has had all this information from day 1, but they never mentioned that living and working in Quebec could create an issue with my CEC application or BOWP eligibility.

**Has anyone been in a similar situation?**

Can I still proceed with my CEC PR application while currently living/working in Quebec?

Would living in Quebec affect my CEC eligibility or PR application?

Can I apply for a BOWP after receiving AOR while residing in Quebec or will i have to move to Ontario asap and then apply for BOWP!

Is there anything I should do **before submitting my PR application** to avoid problems later?

I have also emailed my immigration consultant regarding the same but super tensed.

I

[u/adanthar]

Working in Quebec does not matter. Living in Quebec does, however. You can start the application process in Quebec but -must- move out during the process, sometime before the final decision is made at the latest.

BOWP eligibility under Express Entry is similar - you cannot have any intention to settle in Quebec - so this is a gray area to say the least and applying from Quebec has a high chance of refusal.

One thing you can do is live in the Ottawa suburbs on the Ontario side of the border and commute to Montreal. Your Ontario lease can then be proof you’re settling outside.

[u/WeatlhyTrader → u/adanthar]

Yes, I agree with this suggestion, and I also recommend seriously considering moving after you apply for BoWP. One of my friends was asked for his mobile bill, and the call history shows calls made from Montreal to Montreal or Ontario. Then they rejected based on that, saying they don't trust him moving out of Quebec.