From Visitor to Worker: How to Get a Work Permit in Canada
Are you traveling to Canada and wondering about the possibility of staying longer to work? You’re not the only one! Many come to this beautiful country on a visitor visa, fall in love, and want to make this their home. The good news is that you can (in some cases) change from visitor status to a work permit without leaving Canada. More and more cases are coming up in Canada immigration regarding this change of status.
Let us show you all the options you have!
Step 1: Find a Job in Canada
The first thing you’ll need is a job offer from a Canadian employer. You can start looking for jobs online on websites like:
- Indeed
- Glassdoor
- Or directly on company websites
Make sure your resume (also called a CV) is written the Canadian way. That means it should be clear, short, and highlight your most important work experience and skills. If you’re not sure how to write a Canadian-style resume, don’t worry, our team at New Jain Immigration can help.
Step 2: Get a Job Offer with LMIA
Once you apply and get a job offer, your employer must apply for a document called an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment).
So, what is an LMIA? An LMIA is the proof that a company could not find a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to fill a position, and they are therefore able to offer the position to you. The employer is required to demonstrate that you are the best candidate for the position and, of course, get the LMIA approval. LMIA approval is necessary in order to apply for your work permit visa. Although it takes work and time, completing an LMIA is a significant step toward working in Canada.
Step 3: Apply for a Work Permit
Once you have an LMIA-approved job offer, it’s time to apply for your work permit. This is what allows you to legally work in Canada.
There are two main ways to apply:
Option 1: Apply Online
Most applicants are now applying online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website in Canada. This is the most used and recommended way to apply, especially if you are switching from a Canada tourist visa in the application exchange to a work permit visa.
Option 2: Flagpoling (Not Common Anymore)
Flagpoling means you go to the U.S. border and re-enter Canada to apply for your permit there. But new rules make this hard or not allowed in many cases, so it’s better to apply online.
Another Path: From Visitor to Student to Worker
If you can’t get a job offer right now, don’t worry. There’s another way to stay and work in Canada: become a student first, then work after.
Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Get Accepted into a Canadian School
Apply to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) – a school approved for international students. Our education consultants at New Jain Immigration can help you choose the right program and apply.
Step 2: Apply for a Study Permit
Once you’re accepted, you can apply for a study permit, which allows you to stay in Canada as a student while studying and also work part-time.
Step 3: Complete Your Studies
Study for at least 8 months to be eligible for the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP).
Step 4: Apply for PGWP
Once you finish school, apply for your PGWP, which is an open work permit. That means you can work for almost any employer in Canada!
This path takes a bit longer, but it can lead to more long-term options, including permanent residency through the Canada immigration system.
Also Read: Canada PGWP 2025: All You Need to Know About New Update
New Rules to Know (As of 2024–2025)
If you’re already in Canada, here are some new rules you should know:
- You can’t apply for your work permit at the border anymore. You must apply online.
- If you’re waiting for your new work permit and you leave Canada, you may lose your right to work when you return. You’ll have to wait until your new permit is approved before starting work again.
- If you want to extend your current work permit, you also have to do it online.
These rules help keep the process clear and fair for everyone, but they can be a little confusing if you’re not used to the Canada visa processing time or procedures.
Need Help? We’ve Got Your Back!
Changing your status from Canada visitor to worker isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. At New Jain Immigration, we’ve helped many people like you turn their Canadian dream into reality.
Whether you want to:
- Change your visitor visa to a work permit visa
- Apply for a study permit and later get a work permit
- Get help with job search or LMIA process
- Explore your best Canada immigration options
We’re here to help, every step of the way.
Contact New Jain Immigration today for trusted, expert advice. Let us guide you toward a brighter future in Canada.
FAQs
- Can I apply for a work permit visa while inside Canada?
Yes, depending on your circumstances, you can usually apply online for an employer-specific work permit while inside Canada as a visitor.
- Do I need a job offer to obtain a work permit?
Yes, typically, you will require a genuine job offer with an approved LMIA to apply for a work permit.
1.What is an LMIA?
An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is a document that proves a Canadian employer needs to hire a foreign worker.
2.How long does it take to get a work permit from Canada?
The Canada visa processing times vary; however, it could take a number of weeks to possibly months to process, depending on your application.
3.Can I start working while I wait for my work permit to be approved?
No, you must wait until your work permit is approved before starting work, unless you’re on maintained status from a previous permit.
