If you’re currently in Canada on a visitor visa and want to switch to a work permit, you are not alone. Many individuals come to
If you’re currently in Canada on a visitor visa and want to switch to a work permit, you are not alone. Many individuals come to Canada for short visits and later decide they want to work here. Transitioning from a visitor visa to a work permit can be a bit complex, but with the right information and preparation, it is entirely possible.
This guide will walk you through the steps needed to make this transition successfully. It covers everything from the latest updates to securing a job offer, handling the necessary paperwork, and meeting all requirements. By following these steps, you can move to work legally in Canada and start your new career path with confidence.
Table of Contents
Let’s Understand the Basics: Visitor Visas vs Work Permits
Visitor Visa
A visitor visa is also known as a temporary resident visa (TRV). It allows you to enter Canada for a specific period, usually for tourism, visiting family, or business purposes. It doesn’t permit you to work or study, and the duration of stay is typically limited to 6 months.
For example: If you come to Canada to see your son or daughter or attend an event, you will require a Visitor visa.
Work Permit
A work permit allows you to work lawfully in Canada. There are two types of work permits: open work permits, which allow you to work for any employer, and employer-specific work permits, which allow you to work for only one employer.
For example: If you get a job as a software developer in Surrey, you’d need a work permit to legally work there.
LATEST UPDATE on Converting a Visitor Visa to a Work Permit
As per the recent updates, visitors in Canada can now no longer apply for a work permit while
in the country.
The policy to convert a visitor visa into a work permit was originally introduced during the
COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose was to help visitors who couldn’t return home and fill labour
gaps in Canada. The policy was supposed to end in February 2025 but is ending now on 28 August 2024. The reason is to control the number of temporary residents in Canada and maintain the
integrity of the immigration system.
Note – Applications submitted under the policy before August 28, 2024, will still be processed. This
will ensure that those who applied before the deadline are not impacted.
If you intend to convert your visitor visa into a work permit after 28 August 2024, the following
steps may help you:
1. Secure a Job Offer:
Obtain a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. Ensure your employer has obtained a positive
LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment). It is mostly required if you are applying for an
employer-specific work permit. This document demonstrates that there are no qualified Canadian
workers available for the job.
2. Prepare to Apply from Outside Canada:
Before August 28, 2024, make arrangements to leave Canada and return to your home country or
another country where you have legal status.
3. Submit Your Application from Abroad:
- Online Application: Apply for your work permit through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) secure online portal.
- Prepare Required Documents for Application:
- Job Offer Letter: A formal offer from your Canadian employer.
- Positive LMIA: Include the positive LMIA if applicable.
- Proof of Identity: Your valid passport with blank pages.
- Passport-Sized Photos: Recent photos that meet the IRCC requirements.
- Proof of Funds: Demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay in Canada.
- Medical Exam: Provide results from a medical exam if required. Also, you may need to submit biometrics, including fingerprints and a photo, at a designated collection center.
- Completed Application Forms: Fill out the necessary forms to slim down all the chances of application rejection.
- Application Fees: Pay the required application fees.
Pro Tip: Before applying, review the IRCC website for the most current requirements and
procedures to ensure your application is complete and accurate.
4. Monitor Application Status:
The processing time for work permits can vary. Track your application status through the IRCC
online portal or consult with an immigration expert for assistance.
5. Enter Canada:
After your work permit is approved, you’ll be able to enter Canada. Ensure you comply with all
conditions outlined in your work permit.
6. Consider Long-Term Residency Options:
Explore pathways to PR (permanent residency), such as the Express Entry Canadian Experience
Class or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), to secure long-term stability in Canada.
Conclusion
Switching from a visitor visa to a work permit in Canada is like moving from a guest role to a
full-time job role. As per the latest updates, you can’t apply for a work permit while in Canada after
August 28, 2024. So, you’ll need to leave Canada and apply from your home country.
To do this, get a job offer, and make sure your employer gets an LMIA that is required for most
employer-specific work permits. Then apply for your work permit online from outside Canada. If
you need any help with this, consult Batis Immigration experts. We will process your work permit
application and make your dream of working in Canada come true!
