Canada welcomes millions of visitors every year for tourism, business, and family visits. While in the country, some visitors may find job opportunities and wish to transition from a visitor visa to a work permit.
However, working in Canada while on a visitor visa is not allowed. To work legally, you must apply for a work permit and meet specific eligibility criteria. This guide explains the process of converting a visitor visa to a work permit, eligibility requirements, and how to successfully apply.
Work in Canada 2025
Category | Details |
---|---|
Can you work on a visitor visa? | No, visitors must apply for a work permit to work legally. |
Key Requirement | A valid job offer from a Canadian employer is necessary. |
LMIA Requirement | Some jobs require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), while others are exempt. |
Where to Apply | Online through IRCC or at a Canadian immigration office. |
Processing Time | Varies depending on job type and application volume. |
Stay in Canada While Applying? | Yes, you can remain in Canada while your work permit is processed, but you cannot work until approval. |
Official Source | Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) – www.canada.ca |
Eligibility Requirements for Converting a Visitor Visa to a Work Permit
1. Secure a Valid Job Offer
The first and most crucial step in converting a visitor visa to a work permit is obtaining a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- The job offer must comply with Canada’s labor laws.
- Some employers must obtain an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to prove hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact Canadian workers.
- Some jobs are LMIA-exempt, meaning an employer can hire foreign workers without proving labor shortages.
2. Maintain Visitor Visa Compliance
While in Canada on a visitor visa, you must ensure that:
- Your visa is valid and not expired before applying for a work permit.
- You follow all visa conditions, such as not working illegally.
Failing to comply with visitor visa rules may affect your work permit application.
3. Confirm Work Permit Eligibility
Not all visitors can apply for a work permit within Canada. You are eligible if:
- You meet the requirements for the specific job you are applying for.
- You have the necessary skills, experience, and qualifications required for the role.
- Your job offer meets Canadian immigration standards.
Steps to Apply for a Work Permit from a Visitor Visa
1. Gather Required Documents
Before applying, you must collect essential documents, including:
- A valid job offer letter from a Canadian employer.
- Proof of identity, such as a passport and recent photos.
- Proof of qualifications (e.g., educational certificates, work experience letters).
- LMIA approval (if required) or proof that the job is LMIA-exempt.
2. Submit an Online or Paper Application
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can apply for a work permit through:
- Online application via IRCC website (www.canada.ca).
- In-person submission at a Canadian immigration office.
It is recommended to apply before your visitor visa expires to avoid legal issues.
3. Pay Application Fees
Applicants must pay the required processing fees, which vary based on the type of work permit being issued. Payments can be made online through the IRCC website.
4. Attend Biometrics and Medical Examination (If Required)
Depending on your nationality and type of job, you may be asked to:
- Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
- Undergo a medical examination if your job involves healthcare, childcare, or food handling.
5. Wait for Work Permit Approval
The processing time varies depending on:
- The type of job and work permit category.
- Application volume at the time of submission.
During processing, you can stay in Canada legally but cannot work until the work permit is approved.
Processing Time and Other Important Information
- Processing Time: The time required for work permit approval varies based on job type and IRCC workload. It can range from a few weeks to several months.
- Stay in Canada: While waiting for approval, you must not work but can legally remain in Canada on your visitor visa.
- Visa Expiry: If your visitor visa is close to expiring, consider applying for a visa extension while waiting for your work permit decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I work in Canada while on a visitor visa?
No, you cannot work on a visitor visa. To work legally, you must apply for and receive a work permit.
2. How can I convert my visitor visa to a work permit?
To convert your visitor visa to a work permit, you need:
- A valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- An LMIA approval (if required).
- To submit an application online through IRCC or at a Canadian immigration office.
3. Do I need an LMIA to get a work permit?
Some jobs require an LMIA, while others are LMIA-exempt. It depends on the employer and job type.
4. Can I stay in Canada while my work permit application is being processed?
Yes, you can remain in Canada as long as your visitor visa is valid, but you cannot work until your permit is approved.
5. How long does it take to process a work permit application?
Processing times vary based on:
- The type of work permit applied for.
- The workload of IRCC.
- Additional requirements, such as biometrics or medical exams.
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