How to Apply for a Work Permit in Canada as a Visitor

Canada has long been a top destination for individuals seeking better work opportunities, world-class education, and a high quality of life. Every year, thousands of people visit Canada as tourists, and many begin to consider the possibility of working while they are in the country. The good news is that under specific circumstances, visitors can apply for a work permit without leaving Canada. However, it’s important to understand the rules, eligibility criteria, and step-by-step process before you proceed.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to apply for a work permit in Canada as a visitor, explore your options, and provide key tips to improve your chances of success.

Can You Apply for a Work Permit from Within Canada as a Visitor?

Yes, you can—but only under certain conditions.

In the past, most foreign nationals had to leave Canada before applying for a work permit. However, due to temporary policy changes introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), visitors who are in Canada with valid status may now apply for a work permit from within the country if they have a valid job offer.

This temporary policy has been extended until February 28, 2025, making it a great opportunity for eligible visitors to legally transition to temporary workers without leaving Canada.

Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Work Permit from Within Canada as a Visitor?

To be eligible under the temporary public policy, you must meet the following conditions:

1. You must be physically present in Canada.

2. You must have valid visitor status at the time of applying.

3. You must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.

4. The job offer must be supported by a positive LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) or be LMIA-exempt (such as under an international agreement or significant benefit stream).

5. You must apply before February 28, 2025.

6. You must apply for an employer-specific work permit, not an open work permit.

If you meet these criteria, you can apply for a work permit without needing to leave Canada.

What Is an LMIA, and Why Is It Important?

An LMIA is a document that an employer in Canada may need to get before hiring a foreign worker. It proves that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job and that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to do the job.

Your employer needs to apply for this document and receive a positive LMIA before they can offer you a job that qualifies for a work permit.

Some job offers, however, are exempt from the LMIA requirement. These include:

• Jobs under international agreements (like CUSMA/NAFTA)

• Jobs that provide significant cultural or social benefits to Canada

• Jobs under programs like the International Mobility Program (IMP)

Steps to Apply for a Work Permit as a Visitor in Canada

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to apply for a work permit from inside Canada:

Step 1: Get a Valid Job Offer

Before anything else, you need to find a job in Canada. Your job offer must meet the following criteria:

• Be full-time and non-seasonal (in most cases)

• Include details such as your role, duties, wages, and duration

• Be from an employer who is legally allowed to hire foreign workers

Step 2: Employer Applies for an LMIA (if Required)

If your job is not LMIA-exempt, your potential employer must:

• Apply for an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)

• Pay the required processing fee

• Wait for a positive or neutral LMIA

Once the employer receives a positive LMIA, they can provide you with a detailed job offer letter and a copy of the LMIA, which you will need to submit with your application.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

To apply for your work permit, you’ll need the following:

• A valid passport

• A visitor record or proof of visitor status

• The job offer letter from your employer

• A copy of the LMIA (or proof of LMIA exemption)

• The employment contract

• A completed work permit application form (IMM 5710)

• Proof of medical exam results, if required

• Police certificates, if applicable

• Payment for the application fees

Step 4: Submit Your Application Online

You must submit your application online through your IRCC account. Follow these steps:

1. Log into your IRCC account or create a new one.

2. Fill in the application form (IMM 5710) for applying from inside Canada.

3. Upload all required documents.

4. Pay the application fee (generally CAD $155 for a work permit).

5. Submit the application.

After submission, you may be asked to provide biometrics (photo and fingerprints) if you haven’t done so already.

Step 5: Wait for Processing and Approval

Processing times can vary, but you can check the current processing time on the IRCC website.

Once approved, you will receive a work permit document stating:

• The employer’s name

• Your job title

• Work location

• Duration of the permit

This document is proof that you are legally authorized to work in Canada.

Step 6: Start Working!

After receiving your work permit, you can begin working according to the terms of your permit. Remember:

• You can only work for the specific employer listed on the permit.

• If you change jobs, you must apply to change the conditions of your work permit.

How Long Is the Work Permit Valid?

The duration of your work permit usually matches the length of the job offer or LMIA approval. Most initial permits are valid for 1 to 2 years, but you can apply for an extension if needed.

Can You Apply for Permanent Residence Later?

Yes. Working in Canada can open pathways to permanent residency through programs like:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

• Express Entry

• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

• Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)

Having Canadian work experience boosts your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in Express Entry, making you a stronger candidate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying without a valid job offer

• Submitting incomplete documents

• Failing to maintain visitor status

• Not checking if the job requires an LMIA or not

• Working before the permit is issued (which is illegal)

To avoid delays or rejections, make sure you meet all requirements and provide accurate information.

Tips to Find a Job as a Visitor in Canada

• Use popular Canadian job boards like Job Bank, Indeed, Monster, and Workopolis

• Network on platforms like LinkedIn

• Visit local businesses in person if possible

• Focus on high-demand occupations (like healthcare, construction, and tech)

• Be clear with employers that you are in Canada on a visitor visa and require a work permit

Conclusion

Applying for a work permit in Canada as a visitor is possible and can be a life-changing opportunity. The key is to understand the eligibility requirements, secure a valid job offer, and follow the proper application steps. With Canada extending the public policy allowing in-country work permit applications until February 28, 2025, this is the perfect time to make your move.