The Government of Canada, through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada, announced on February 28, 2023, that individuals holding a valid Canadian Visitor visa can now convert it into a work permit without leaving Canada. This temporary policy, effective until February 28, 2025, provides a unique opportunity for applicants in Canada to transition from a visitor status to a work permit. This post outlines the steps on how to convert your Canadian visitor visa into a work permit.
Eligibility Requirements to Convert Canada Visit Visa into Work Permit:
To benefit from this temporary policy, an applicant must:
- Possess a Valid Temporary Visit Visa from Canada.
- Have a valid status in Canada as a visitor on the day they apply.
- Hold a job offer supported by a labor market impact assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt offer of employment.
- Apply for an employer-specific work permit no later than February 28, 2025.
- Meet all other standard admissibility criteria.
Benefits of this Temporary Policy:
- An opportunity to convert a visitor visa into a work permit.
- No need to leave Canada; the application can be submitted from within the country.
How to Apply for the Canada Work Permit:
Depending on your situation, you need to apply online for the work permit.
- Applying from outside Canada? [Apply online for Work Permit]
- Applying from Inside Canada? [Apply online for Work Permit]
How to Find Jobs in Canada:
Whether you are already in Canada on a visitor visa or seeking job opportunities from outside Canada, the Job Bank website is an excellent resource for foreign applicants.
- Visit the [Job Bank Website](https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/).
- Click on “LMIA” if you are not a Canadian citizen or not in Canada.
- An LMIA-approved job indicates that the employer is permitted to hire a foreign worker with or without a work permit.
FAQs:
Can I convert my visitor visa to a work permit in Canada?
Yes, under the temporary policy, you can convert your visitor visa to a work permit in Canada without leaving the country. The policy expires on February 28, 2025.
Can I apply for a work permit while on a visitor visa in Canada?
Yes, you can apply for a work permit while on a visitor visa in Canada after securing an LMIA-approved job and having a valid visitor visa.
