Can I Convert Canada Visit Visa to Work Visa?

No, you cannot directly convert or transfer a Canadian visitor visa (temporary resident visa) into a work visa from inside Canada — unless you meet very specific exceptions.

General Rule:

A visitor visa (TRV) does not allow you to work in Canada or apply for a work permit from within Canada in most cases.

However, there is a Temporary Public Policy (until Feb 28, 2025):

You may be eligible to apply for a work permit from inside Canada if:

1. You are in Canada on a valid visitor visa, and

2. You have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, and

3. The employer has an approved LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment), unless exempt,

4. You apply online and meet all eligibility criteria,

5. You apply before February 28, 2025 under this special policy.

If approved, you can even start working sooner by applying for an interim work authorization.

Important Notes:

• You cannot job hunt illegally while on a visitor visa.

• You must leave Canada if your visa expires and you haven’t secured a work permit.

• If you don’t meet the special policy criteria, you’ll need to return to your home country and apply for a work permit from there.

What You Can Do:

• Start applying to Canadian employers immediately.

• Look for jobs that are supported by an LMIA or employers designated to hire foreign workers.

• Once you receive a valid job offer and LMIA, you can apply online for a work permit.

Need help?

I can help you:

• Find LMIA-approved jobs

• Draft your resume for Canadian employers

• Guide you through applying under the special policy