How to Convert a Canada Visit Visa into a Work Permit

How to Convert a Canada Visit Visa into a Work Permit | Step by Step Guide on How to Transition from a Canada Visitor Visa to a Work Permit: Requirements and Process

It is very possible for you to convert your Canada visit visa to a work permit. However, it is important you meet specific eligibility criteria and apply within the appropriate timelines. All this and more are what we will be guiding you on.

Are you in Canada on a visitor visa and you are looking for a way to convert it into a work permit? If your answer is YES! kudos to you, you have found the right information portal.

It is important that you know the rules and processes involved in this type of visa conversion. Normally, a visitor visa does not allow you work in Canada, but there are some specific cases where you can apply for a work permit while you are in Canada. This is made possible by the temporary policies made by the Canadian government that makes it easier for someone to convert a visit visa to a work permit.

Kindly go through the guide on how to convert your Canada visit visa into a work permit on this page.

Benefits of the Canadian Government Temporary Policy

The temporary policies helps to facilitate easier conversion from a visitor visa to a work permit, especially in response to labor shortages in various sectors.

Some key benefits include:

It addresses labor shortages
It gives more flexibility to foreign nationals
It is an easier path to work in Canada
There is an increase in job market opportunities

Can You Convert Your Visitor Visa to a Work Permit in Canada?

Yes, it is possible to convert a visitor visa to a work permit in Canada, however there are certain conditions you must meet, such as having a valid job offer and meeting the eligibility requirements mentioned below.

Eligibility Requirements to Convert a Canada Visit Visa into a Work Permit

Not everyone who holds a visitor visa is eligible to apply for a work permit while in Canada. Here are the common requirements and eligibility criteria:

Job Offer from a Canadian Employer
You Must Be in Canada Legally
Show Intent to Leave Canada
Status as a Visitor
No Restrictions on Work in Your Visitor Visa

Can You Apply for a Work Permit While on a Visitor Visa in Canada?

Yes, you can apply for a work permit while you are on a visitor visa in Canada. However, there are important conditions to note:

You must apply for the work permit before your visitor visa expires.
You will need a valid job offer and may require an LMIA.

How to Apply for a Canada Work Permit from a Visitor Visa

It is now an established fact that you can apply for a work permit while you’re in Canada on a visitor visa. This is how to apply:

Get a Valid Job Offer Letter from a Canadian Employer
Check Your Eligibility for Work Permit
Arrange the Required Documents (Job offer letter, international passport, visitor visa and other documents required by your specific visa category)
Submit the Application through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) website or through a paper application (depending on your situation). IRCC Work Permit Application Portal
Wait for Decision
If your application is approved, you will receive a work permit. You can start working once your permit is granted.