Short intro: Can a visitor (tourist) in Canada switch to a work permit? In 2025, it can be possible in specific scenarios—typically with a valid job offer and employer steps (LMIA/employer-compliance). Because policies change, always verify the current inside-Canada rules on IRCC before you apply.
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Table of Contents
Can visitors apply for a work permit from inside Canada?
Depending on current IRCC policy, visitors may be allowed to apply for an employer-specific work permit from inside Canada—typically when there is a genuine job offer and the employer has completed the required steps (e.g., LMIA approval or employer-compliance for LMIA-exempt categories). These measures are policy-dependent; confirm the latest rules before applying.
Important: Even if you submit an application, you generally cannot begin working until a work permit is approved and issued (unless an authorized public policy says otherwise).
Main pathways (employer-specific & alternatives)
| Pathway | What it requires | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| Employer-specific (LMIA) | Approved LMIA + written job offer; you apply for a closed permit | Most occupations with willing employers |
| Employer-specific (LMIA-exempt) | Employer compliance submission & offer number | Categories exempt by policy/treaty |
| Outside-Canada processing | Apply from abroad if inside-Canada option doesn’t apply | Visitors who must leave to apply |
| Study → Work later | Enroll in eligible study; later PGWP or employer route | Those needing time to upskill |
Documents & practical checklist
- Job offer letter: title, duties, pay, hours, location, start date.
- Employer proof: LMIA decision letter or employer-compliance/offer number (LMIA-exempt).
- Passport & status: visitor record/stamp showing you’re in status.
- Proof of qualifications (if applicable): education, licences, references.
- Police/medical checks if requested; biometrics if not valid within 10 years.
- Financials (if needed) to show you can support yourself while waiting.
Tip: Keep a single PDF bundle of all letters/receipts to avoid confusion.
Common risks (status, work start, refusals)
- Working too early: Do not start before the permit is approved unless explicitly allowed by current policy.
- Status expiry: Track your visitor status expiry; extension may be required while your application is pending.
- LMIA/compliance delays: Employer paperwork can take time—set realistic start dates.
- Travel plans: Leaving Canada during processing can affect your application; plan carefully.
Application steps (inside vs outside)
- Secure a genuine offer from a compliant employer (confirm LMIA or compliance number).
- Complete online forms via IRCC (inside-Canada work permit application if eligible).
- Upload documents: passport, current status, job offer, LMIA/compliance, CV, checks.
- Pay fees (work permit + biometrics if required) and attend biometrics if prompted.
- Wait for decision; read approval letter/eVisa and conditions carefully.
- If not eligible inside Canada: apply from outside; align travel with biometrics/VAC availability.
Interlinking you should read next
FAQ
Can every visitor switch to a work permit? No—only if the current IRCC policy allows and employer steps (LMIA/compliance) are complete.
Can I start work after applying? Usually no—you must wait for approval unless a specific policy clearly allows earlier work.
Do I need to leave Canada? If you’re not eligible to apply from inside, you may need to apply from abroad.
What if my status expires while waiting? Extend visitor status on time, or explore restoration if you become out of status.
© 2025 NextStep Europe — Educational content only, not legal advice.