Embarking on a visit to Canada is a thrilling adventure filled with the promise of diverse landscapes, welcoming communities, and unique cultural experiences. Yet, for many individuals, what starts as a short-term exploration often evolves into a more profound desire – the pursuit of a career in the Great White North. If you’ve found yourself yearning for an extended stay and envisioning your professional growth within the Canadian backdrop, the prospect of converting your visit visa into a work visa becomes a key consideration.
This article serves as a practical guide to help you navigate this transition seamlessly. We’ll demystify the complexities of shifting from a visit visa to a work visa in Canada, breaking down the essential steps and offering valuable insights. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant urban life of cities like Toronto and Vancouver or the serene charm of smaller communities, understanding the eligibility criteria and mastering the application process is crucial.
Guide to Transitioning from Visit Visa to Work Visa in Canada
If you find yourself currently in Canada, there’s good news – you can apply for various permits under specific circumstances. Firstly, if you hold a valid study or work permit, you’re eligible to submit an application. Additionally, if your spouse, common-law partner, or parent is currently in possession of a valid study or work permit, you can also explore this opportunity.
If you’ve completed your studies and are eligible for a post-graduation work permit, and your study permit is still in force, this is another avenue for application. Furthermore, if you or your family member holds a temporary resident permit valid for six months or more, you meet the criteria for applying from within Canada.
For those awaiting a decision on a permanent residence application, particularly in the Spouse and common-law partner in Canada class, overseas family class, or the Temporary resident permit holder class, you can also initiate an application from within Canada.
Moreover, individuals who have made or are planning to make a claim for refugee protection are eligible for the application process. If you have been officially recognized as a Convention refugee or protected person by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, this serves as grounds for applying from within the country.
Additionally, if you possess the right to work in Canada without a work permit but need one for a different job (excluding business visitors), you can consider submitting an application. Lastly, those falling under categories such as trader, investor, intra-company transferee, or professional according to the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) are also eligible to apply for permits from within Canada.
Apply Online from Inside Canada
Step 1: To submit your application online, you’ll need a few essentials:
- A scanner or camera: This is to help you create electronic copies of your necessary documents.
- A valid credit or debit card: Ensure you have a working credit or debit card for payment purposes.
If you encounter any issues during the online application process, follow these steps:
Step 2: Read the instruction guide.
Even if you choose to apply online, take the time to read the instruction guide before completing your application. This guide provides detailed explanations on how to fill out each section of the form.
Priority Processing for Work Permit Applicants
Applications from individuals engaged in or supporting essential services are being prioritized. When filling out the work permit application form, adhere to these steps for priority processing:
- Retrieve the National Occupational Classification (NOC) number from your employer’s offer of employment or Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- Enter this number in Box 4 under the “Details of intended work in Canada” section. Only the number should be entered.
- Eligible occupations that perform or support essential services
- Occupations in agriculture and agri-food, as well as healthcare, are eligible for priority processing.
Step 3: Prepare your answers for the online tool.
Before uploading your forms, answer some questions to generate a personalized document checklist.
Step 4: Know the fees you have to pay.
In most cases, your fees will cover processing for both you and anyone included in your application. Pay your fees at the end of the application process. For open work permits, ensure you pay the applicable fees:
- Work permit fee ($155)
- Open work permit holder fee ($100)
Step 5: Create your online account or sign in.
An online account is necessary for the application process. Use your account to pay fees, submit your application, and track its status. This streamlined approach ensures a smooth and efficient application process.
In conclusion, navigating the process of converting a visit visa to a work permit in Canada is a journey of possibilities and opportunities. The extended public policy provides a unique pathway for individuals already in Canada, offering a chance to build a career without the need to leave the country. As the vlogger emphasized, the eligibility criteria are clear, and understanding the steps involved can empower individuals to take advantage of this extended policy.