Canada Visa: Apply Visitor Visa With Open Work Permit?

"No, you cannot apply for a Canadian visitor visa (TRV) from inside Canada if you are currently living and working in the UAE, even if you hold a valid Canadian open work permit.

Key Points

1. You Must Be Physically in Canada to Apply “Inside Canada”

IRCC only allows an “inside Canada” TRV application if you are:

In Canada physically, and

Have valid temporary resident status (work permit, study permit, etc.)

Since you are still outside Canada, you must apply from outside, through the UAE visa office or your country of nationality.

2. Your Open Work Permit Does Not Grant Entry

A Canadian open work permit:

Allows you to work in Canada,

But does NOT allow you to enter Canada without a valid visitor visa (TRV).

You must obtain the TRV before travelling to Canada.

3. Apply Through IRCC as an “Outside Canada” Applicant

You should submit your TRV application through:

The UAE (if residing there), or

India (your home country), depending on your documents and residence status.

4. Many Applicants Do This

It is common for people holding valid Canadian work/study permits to apply for a TRV from abroad when they have not yet entered Canada."