If you have a Visitor Visa, you are permitted to travel across Canada; however, you are not permitted to work. There are, however, specific conditions that must be met before a Visitor Visa can be converted into a Work Permit.

Changing Your Visitor Visa to a Work Permit in Canada

Typically, you cannot convert a visitor visa to a work permit without first departing Canada. However, the Canadian government has implemented temporary public policies that allow certain tourists to apply for work permits without leaving the country. To ensure eligibility, visit the Canadian government’s official immigration website (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html) and review the most recent policies.

Visitor visas explicitly prohibit paid employment and violating these conditions can lead to severe consequences, such as deportation and future visa refusals.

Eligibility Requirements

To move from a visitor visa to a work permit, you must complete the following requirements:

• Job Offer from a Canadian Employer: A genuine job offer, accompanied by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), is necessary.
• Employer-Specific Work Permit: In most circumstances, an employer-specific work permit is required to do a certain job.
• Visitor Status: You must have a valid visitor status while applying.
• Public Policy Eligibility: Make sure you meet any current public policy requirements for this transfer.

Steps to Change Visitor Visa to Work Permit in Canada

• Find a job offer: Look for employers in Canada who are willing to hire international labour. Unless the position is excluded from the LMIA, ensure that the employment offer is legitimate and backed by it.
• Check your eligibility for public policy: Check to see if the public policy that allowed tourists to apply for a work visa without leaving Canada is still in effect.
• Gather the required documents: Gather necessary documents including a valid passport, job offer letter, LMIA, proof of visiting status in Canada, work permit application form, and any relevant supporting documentation.
• Apply for a work permit online: Submit your application via the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) online portal. For paper Application (If Applicable), you should send your application to the authorized visa processing centre.
• Pay the fees: You are required to pay the fees for work permit applications typically include a processing fee of CAD 155 and a biometric cost of CAD 85 if necessary.
• Wait for the decision and Receive your work permit: Processing periods vary according to the type of application and the number of submissions. If granted, you will be given a work permit that allows you to lawfully work in Canada for the stated company and circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About Changing Your Visitor Visa to a Work Permit in Canada

1. Can I change my visitor visa to a work permit in Canada?

Yes, you can change your visitor visa to a work permit in Canada, but you must meet specific requirements. Normally, you can’t apply for a work permit from a visitor visa without leaving Canada unless a public policy permits it.

2. What is the public policy for visitors applying for a work permit in Canada?

The Canadian government has implemented temporary policies allowing visitors to apply for employer-specific work permits without leaving the country. These policies are time-limited, so check the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for the latest updates.

3. What documents do I need to apply for a work permit?

To apply for a work permit, you’ll typically need:

• A valid passport.
• A job offer letter from a Canadian employer.
• Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) approval (if required).
• Proof of visitor status in Canada.
• Completed work permit application form.
• Payment of application and biometrics fees (if applicable).

4. Do I need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)?

In most cases, a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is required to obtain a work permit. This document proves that your employer couldn’t find a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to fill the job. Some positions, however, are LMIA-exempt under specific programs or agreements.

5. How do I apply for a work permit while in Canada?

You can apply online through the IRCC portal. You’ll need to fill out the appropriate forms, upload the required documents, and pay the application fees. If approved, your work permit will be issued, allowing you to start working legally in Canada.

6. How long does it take to process a work permit application?

Processing times vary depending on the type of work permit and the volume of applications. On average, it may take several weeks to a few months. Check current processing times on the IRCC website.

7. Can I work while waiting for my work permit to be approved?

No, you cannot work until you receive your work permit. Working without authorization is illegal and could impact your immigration status.

8. Do I need to leave Canada to get a work permit?

Under normal circumstances, visitors must leave Canada to apply for a work permit. However, if you qualify under a public policy allowing in-Canada applications, you can apply without leaving the country.

9. Can I apply for an open work permit?

In most cases, transitioning from a visitor visa to an open work permit is not allowed. Open work permits are usually granted under specific conditions, such as being the spouse of a skilled worker or international student.

10. What happens if my visitor visa expires while I’m applying for a work permit?

You must maintain valid visitor status while in Canada. If your visitor visa is about to expire, apply for an extension before it does. Without valid status, you cannot apply for a work permit.

Conclusion

The LMIA process can be time-consuming and costly for employers, and the application process can take weeks or months. It’s important to plan accordingly and stay updated on immigration rules and policies. If you secure a job, consider exploring pathways to permanent residency, such as the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry.