January 10th, 2024 at 05:15 am

How to Convert Visitor Visa to Work Visa in Canada | Canada Immigration 2024

For many, starting a journey to work and establish a life in Canada is an ambition. Navigating the immigration process is essential if you began with a visiting visa but now wish to switch to a work visa. We explain the procedures and complexities involved in changing your visitor visa to a work permit in Canada in this tutorial.

Knowing the steps and standards is essential to making this shift a reality, whether you’re looking for work or wanting to change careers.

How to Convert a Visitor Visa to a Work Visa in Canada

For those holding a valid Canadian visitor visa, Canada, a country renowned for its wide range of options and friendly climate, presents a special chance. With the government’s new declaration on February 28, 2023, applicants will be able to convert their visiting visas into work permits temporarily without having to leave Canada.

This historic law, which is extending until February 28, 2025, provides opportunities for people who want to work and support the Canadian workforce. This post will explore the advantages and detailed procedures for converting a visitor visa to a work permit in Canada.

Eligibility Criteria

To benefit from this temporary policy, candidates must fulfill certain eligibility requirements;

• Valid Temporary Visit Visa: It is necessary to have a valid visiting visa from Canada.
• Valid visitor status: When applying for a work visa, applicants need to have a valid visitor status on the day of the application.
• Employment offer: It is necessary to have an offer of employment backed by a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt offer.
• Application Closing Date: The deadline for submitting an employer-specific work visa application is February 28, 2025.
• Standard eligibility requirements: it is necessary to fulfill all other standard eligibility requirements.

Benefits of the Temporary Policy

There are several benefits associated with the temporary policy of converting a visiting visa into a work permit.

• Application from Within Canada: Applicants do not need to travel outside of Canada to apply for a work visa.
• Extended opportunity: this program offers a special window for changing visiting visas into work licenses until February 28, 2025.

Step-by-Step Guide to Conversion

• Apply for a job in Canada: look for positions that match your qualifications and skill set.
• Obtain an offer letter approved by LMIA: Obtain an offer of employment that is backed by a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt offer.
• Obtain the necessary paperwork, such as the job offer, LMIA or exempt documents, and any supporting documentation, before applying for a work visa. Apply for a work permit specifically for your employer by the deadline of February 28, 2025.
• Fulfilling the requirements for admission: Ensure that all conventional admissibility requirements—such as those related to health, security, and other immigration requirements—are met.

Work Visa Vs Tourist Visa

Understanding the Difference

It’s critical to understand the differences between a work visa and a tourist visa in Canada.

Visitor/tourist visas are intended for brief visits. A tourist visa usually enables stays of three to six months, however, it does not grant the ability to work.

A work visa is necessary for anyone who wants to work in Canada. A legitimate employment offer and compliance with certain immigration requirements are prerequisites for obtaining a work visa.

Financial Considerations

It’s crucial to comprehend the costs involved in converting a tourist visa into a work permit.

• Processing price for work permits: $155 per person is required to obtain a work permit, including extensions.
• Processing period for a Canada work permit: depending on the kind of permit, processing times vary. Selected and usually takes two to three months for candidates from outside the country

We will go over more information in the upcoming updates, such as the necessary paperwork, possible difficulties, and advice for a smooth conversion process. Changing your temporary visa to a work visa Having a visa in Canada gives you access to a wide range of opportunities and the ability to participate in the dynamic Canadian workforce.

When you set out on this trip, make sure you read up on the most recent immigration laws and regulations, consult with immigration professionals, look into employment options, and approach the process with perseverance and patience. Your shift from tourist to a valued member of Canadian society is a step toward achieving your goals and creating a happy, rewarding life in the Great White North.

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