They are so many things to marvel that if you are planning to change your visitor visa to a work permit when in Canada, then there is lot to know. Yes, it can be done but then it is quite a lengthy procedure. To help you understand this, allow us to do so in a more simplified manner in this article.
From Visitor Visa to Work Visa: Risky Business
Indeed, while in Canada, people with visitor visas have been free to apply for work permits. Such a measure was adopted according to the norms of emergencies for several years to support companies that experienced a lack of manpower. Still, this is not an easy process and not all people can become regulation members.
Job Offer: The Key Requirement
Basically you can not change your visa without a valid job offer. This has to be an offer of employment from a employer in Canada who undergoes an LMIA test. From this document one can be sure that there is no Canadian worker who is willing to do the job. In as much as one can apply for work visa, there is almost no chance of being granted one unless one has an LMIA-approved offer.
What is the LMIA Process?
Making it harder, LMIA is a complex process that is involved when applying for visas such as the Investor Visa. The employers are required to provide proof that they searched for a domestic talent before hiring a foreign talent. This entails publicizing the position and then informing them that no Canadian could be employed to for the position. This means that getting a job offer may not be easy especially due to the time and effort that one has to use.
Challenges: Why Success Rates Are Low
How one can be able to turn a visitor visa to a work permit is quite rare. The main challenge is to get an employer who is willing to apply for a LMIA. That is why if you secure a job, the competition is high and it is not rare to meet employers who are inclined to consider only domestic employees.
Stay Within Visa Limits
I hope you wouldn’t forget that you’re on a visitor’s visa and it has its own limit. Overstaying this visa in Canada which we will discuss later causes issues such as being deported. Maintain the documentation of the visa one has as well as understand that all the processes have to be legal.
Tips for Success
1. Persistence: Just continue updating and optimizing your resume and continue on sending applications to various positions. Networking can also help.
2. Location Matters: It is recommended to apply in areas which there are not many companies in operation, probably small towns.
3. Backup Plan: When you cannot get a job opportunity you may seek for a study permit or think about going back home.
