Can you Convert a Canada Visitor Visa to Work Permit? Policy Ended in August
Moving to Canada on a visitor visa is common for tourism, visiting family, or a short stay. But what if you find a job opportunity while you are visiting? If you are thinking, “Can you convert your visitor visa to work permit without leaving Canada?” this article gives you the answer.
Many people have relied on the IRCC’s visitor-to-work permit policy over the past years. They were able to switch from their visitor visa to work permit from inside Canada. This policy is now over, and new measures must be followed to switch to a work permit. If you need help with your immigration process, Canada Shaws can help you make the immigration process smoother. Book a free orientation to start your professional journey.
This article explains how the process works, including flagpoling a visitor visa to work permit and the online application method.
Temporary Policy on Converting Visitor Visa to Work Permit in Canada
In August 2020, Canada introduced a temporary policy allowing people with a visitor visa to apply for a Canada job visa while still in Canada. The specific rule was implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic when travel was severely limited. Under this rule, many visitors were able to change their visitor visa to work permit without leaving the country.
This policy helped thousands of visitors. As of August 28, 2024, this policy has ended. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is no longer allowing visitors to apply for a work permit from inside Canada, unless they had applied for the work permit before the date.
Policy Change: What Does it Mean for Visitors?
Now, if you are in Canada on a visitor visa, you will no longer be able to apply for a work permit while in Canada. You must either:
- Leave Canada and apply at home for your work permit, or
- Take advantage of flagpoling if you are eligible.
This change has a lot of implications for those who were attempting to convert from a visitor visa to work permit in Canada in 2024. IRCC made this change to control the number of temporary residents and fix the problems of the immigration system. It also prevents people from working without proper authorization.
Read the top 10 high-paying jobs in Canada for immigrants.
Flagpoling: A New Requirement for Visitors
Flagpoling is when an individual exits Canada (usually at the border of the U.S.) and re-enters Canada for immigration purposes, like applying for a new work permit. After the end of this policy, many people are now utilizing this method.
You may use a flagpoling visitor visa to work permit if:
- You have a valid job offer.
- Your employer has a valid LMIA/LMIA-exempt.
- You meet the eligibility criteria under the new entry rules.
Important Note: Flagpoling is not for everyone. Border officers may refuse entry if documents are missing or if the officers are not satisfied that the applicant is eligible. Always prepare appropriately before attempting this process.
Want to know how newcomers can find a job in Canada? Click here to read.
Applying from Outside Canada
The steps in applying from outside Canada include:
- Obtaining a genuine job offer from a Canadian employer
- Checking if the job needs an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment)
- Applying online for a work permit via the IRCC portal
- Providing biometrics, medical exams, or police certificates, if applicable
The Canada visitor visa to work permit processing time will depend on your country. In many cases, it could take 8 to 12 weeks. It could take longer or even be rejected if the application is incomplete.
To avoid delays and complete your application, it is always best to refer to the right immigration consultant in Canada to help you with the process and documentation required.
Steps for Visitors Seeking a Work Permit Now
If you’re a visitor but want to work in Canada, you have to follow the new rules. Here’s how to convert a visitor visa to work permit in Canada:
Step 1:
Return to your home country or make an appointment for flagpoling if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Step 2:
Complete the application for a work permit online through the IRCC website.
Step 3:
Get the documents that you need:
- Passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Offer letter
- LMIA or proof of exemption from LMIA
- Language test results (IELTS or CELPIP)
- Proof of education, experience
- Biometrics and police Certificate if needed
Step 4: Pay the fees
- Canada visitor visa convert to work permit fees: CAD $155 (closed permit)
- CAD $100 if you wish to have an open permit
- CAD $ 85 for biometrics if needed
Step 5: Wait for approval
- Track your status online
- Processing time varies depending on what country you are applying from.
This is the lawful and correct way to convert a Canadian visitor visa to work permit in 2025.
Learn about foreign workers’ rights in Canada.
What if you Stay Beyond the Allowed Visitor Visa Period?
If your visitor visa has expired or is about to expire, do not stay longer. Overstaying without a legal status can lead to:
- Being denied future visas
- Being removed from Canada
- It is difficult for you to have any permit approved
If you applied for a work permit before August 28th, 2024, IRCC will continue to process it. New applications from visitors in Canada are not being accepted anymore. For more assistance, get guidance from Canada work visa consultants to explore alternative options.
How can Canada Shaws help you?
Canada Shaws is your trusted partner in navigating the Canadian immigration process. With over 10 years of experience, our team of Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) offers personalized guidance. Book a free consultation to confidently take the next step toward your Canadian journey.
Conclusion
The visitor visa to work permit pathway in Canada has changed, with the policy ending in August 2024. Now, if you are in Canada already, you may not switch status unless you leave Canada or use the flagpole method. Ensure that your steps match current immigration law to avoid delays or denials.
This change might feel like a setback, but you still have the option to apply from outside of Canada. If you are prepared with the right documents and support, you can still move from a visitor visa to work permit successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No, you cannot apply for permanent residency (PR) while you are in Canada on a visitor visa. When you accept a visitor visa, you are also agreeing to leave the country when your visit is over. Permanent residency applications must be made from outside Canada.
No, a tourist visa is for leisure travel or visiting friends and family. You can’t work in Canada on a tourist visa. You must then apply for a work permit if you want to work in Canada after receiving a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
Yes, visitors can open a bank account in Canada. However, visitors will need to bring certain verifying documents in person to open a bank account, like a passport, proof of address, and possibly a visa. Keep in mind that there may be fees for transactions, international transfers, or maintaining an account, depending on the bank and type of services used.
