Convert Canadian Visitor Visa to Work Permit in 2024 (Process)

In 2024, Canada is opening doors wider for individuals on a visitor visa to transition smoothly into the workforce without the need to leave the country first. This golden opportunity comes under a temporary policy extension that’s in effect until February 28, 2025. Here’s a streamlined and user-friendly guide on how to make this significant transition.

Understanding this Opportunity

Canada’s temporary policy extension is a lifeline for visitors who’ve landed a job and wish to stay and work. This policy allows you to apply for a work permit from within Canada, bypassing the traditional requirement to apply from your home country or outside Canada

Are You Eligible?

To take advantage of this policy, you need to tick off a few boxes on the eligibility checklist:

• Valid Visitor Status: You’re in Canada with legal visitor status.
• Job Offer in Hand: You have a job offer from a Canadian employer. This offer must either be supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or be LMIA-exempt.

Your Action Plan for Conversion of Visit Visa to Work VISA in Canada

Here’s how you can convert your visitor visa into a work permit, broken down into straightforward steps:

1# Secure a Valid Job Offer

Your first step is to land a job that necessitates a work permit. This means having a formal job offer letter from your prospective Canadian employer in hand.

LMIA Considerations:

• LMIA-Approved Offer: Ideally, your job offer should be backed by an LMIA, indicating that the government has greenlit the hiring of a foreign worker for the role.
• Exploring LMIA-Exempt Paths: If your job offer isn’t LMIA-approved, don’t worry. Certain positions are exempt from this requirement. You’ll need to check with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for your next steps.

2# Apply for Your Work Permit Online

With your job offer secured, the next move is to apply for the work permit through the IRCC website. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Proof of Your Visitor Visa Status: Documentation that proves you’re in Canada on a valid visitor visa.
• Your Job Offer Letter: The formal offer from your employer.
• LMIA Documentation: If your job offer is LMIA-approved, include this in your application

Conclusion

Transitioning from a visitor visa to a work permit in Canada is a process facilitated significantly by the temporary policy extension. By understanding the eligibility criteria, preparing the necessary documents, and following the outlined steps, applicants can navigate this journey with clarity and confidence. Remember, consulting with licensed immigration consultants can provide personalized assistance tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring a smooth transition into the Canadian workforce