How to Convert Your Visitor Visa to a Work Permit in Canada 2024

If you hold a visitor visa and are either planning to travel to Canada or are already in the country, you might be considering converting your visitor visa to a work permit. This post will guide you through the process, eligibility criteria, and advantages/disadvantages of this transition.

Understanding the Process

The good news for visitor visa holders is that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) now allows you to apply for a work permit from within Canada. This policy, extended until February 28, 2025, simplifies the process by eliminating the need to leave the country. Here are the key steps and requirements:

1. Valid Job Offer

You must secure a job offer that is supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt offer.

2. Visitor Status

Ensure your visitor status is valid at the time of application.

3. Employer-Specific Work Permit

Submit your application for an employer-specific work permit by February 28, 2025.

4. Admissibility Criteria

Meet the standard admissibility criteria set by the Canadian government.

5. Interim Work Authorization

If you held a work permit in the last 12 months, you could request interim work authorization to start working sooner.

Advantages and Disadvantages

While this method is straightforward, it comes with certain limitations:

  • Employer-Specific: The work permit ties you to one employer.
  • Field Restriction: You cannot switch job fields without applying for a new permit.
  • Employer Dependency: Your stay in Canada depends on your employer.
  • Finding a Sponsor: Securing a sponsor within six months can be challenging.

Alternative Method: Transitioning to a Study Permit

Another viable option is transitioning from a visitor visa to a study permit. Here’s a brief overview of the steps involved:

1. Obtain a Canadian Visitor Visa

Start with a valid visitor visa

2. Enroll in a Prerequisite Course

Choose a course required for your intended field of study.

3. Complete the Course and Receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA)

Successfully complete the course to obtain an LOA from a Canadian institution.

4. Obtain a Letter of Support

Get a letter of support from the college.

5. Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary documents for your study permit application.

6. Wait for Approval

Submit your application and wait for approval to get your study permit

Benefits of a Study Permit

Applying for a study permit while inside Canada offers several advantages:

  • Longer Stay: Extend your stay in Canada.
  • Work Flexibility: Work part-time during your studies and full-time during breaks.
  • Independence: You are not dependent on a single employer.
  • Higher PR Points: Gain more points towards Permanent Residency.

How Canada Admission Hub Can Help

Applying for your study permit from within Canada is not just convenient but also comes with benefits that can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. If you’re in Canada and planning to start or continue your studies, consider this path for a potentially faster and more supported experience.

At Admission Hub, we specialize in assisting international students in transitioning from a visitor visa to a study permit. With a proven track record of helping thousands of students successfully obtain their study permits, we’re well-equipped to guide you through each step of the process. Schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step towards achieving your educational goals.

About Canada Admission Hub

Admission Hub is one of the largest International Student Immigration Firm based in Toronto & Vancouver. Currently, it operates in the following markets: Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, China, Brazil, Mexico, Turkey, Europe, Vietnam, and India. Our parent company CVH Immigration Ltd. Admission Hub is helping and supporting International Students around the world to Study, Work, and Immigrate to Canada. We are proud to partner with over +150 Canadian Institutions. If you want help with your Study Visa application, the first step is to BOOK A CONSULTATION with Admission Hub’s Consultant, share your background and our consultant will reach out to provide you with as much assistance as possible.
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We understand the challenges and needs of international students, and we can communicate with you in your preferred language. We can guide you through every step of the process, from choosing the right college, applying for admission, obtaining a study permit, extending or changing your visa status, to settling in Canada.

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