Imagine you visit Canada, and its beauty and opportunities capture your heart. You start wondering, can I stay and work here? Well, you’re not alone! Many visitors feel this way, it’s not uncommon for the beauty of Canada to spark a desire to transition from being a mere visitor to becoming a worker in the country.
If you are currently in Canada or you wish to visit the country and desire to transition from a visitor to a worker, Canada has a path to help you turn this dream into reality. Canada’s charm often makes visitors want more than just a short trip. They’re drawn to its stunning scenery, lively cities, and friendly people.
Is it easy to find a Job on a Tourist visa in Canada?
No, it is not easy to find a job in Canada while on a tourist visa. Tourist visas are intended for temporary visits and tourism activities, not for employment.
To work in Canada legally, you would need a work permit. You have to follow the appropriate immigration procedures and obtain the necessary permits before seeking employment in the country. If you are ready to transition, below is how you can achieve your target.
How to find a job on a Tourist visa in Canada
The purpose of a tourist visa is primarily for leisure and travel – you cannot work in Canada with your tourist visa.
While it might be tempting to find a job right away, remember that your priority on a tourist visa is to explore and enjoy the country. But while exploring the country, you can make work connections.
Exploring job opportunities
While you can’t work on a tourist visa, you can use your time to network, attend job fairs, and connect with potential employers.
This step is important because building these connections will come in handy once you’re ready to apply for a work permit.
Securing a job offer
When you’ve identified a job opportunity and an employer willing to hire you, they (the employer) will need to provide you with a formal job offer, the job needs to be LMIA approved.
This offer is essential as it will become a crucial part of your work permit application.
Applying for a Temporary Resident Visa
Once you have a valid job offer, you can begin the process of applying for a Temporary Resident Visa even while in Canada.
With your Temporary Resident Visa, you can apply for a work permit, a work permit allows you to legally work in Canada.
Apply for a work permit
Once you have obtained your Temporary Resident Visa, you need to apply for a work permit.
Your work permit application should include all your documents.
Documents needed for work visa application
- Job offer letter: You need to include the job offer letter from your prospective employer.
- Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): You will also get this from your employer.
- Proof of Qualifications: You need documents that prove your qualifications and eligibility for the job, such as educational certificates or transcripts.
- Your passport: A valid passport that doesn’t expire during your stay in Canada.
- Proof of Financial Support: Evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses, including accommodation, transportation, and other costs.
- Application Forms: Filled-out application forms for the specific work permit category you’re applying under.
- Passport-Sized Photos: Recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specifications outlined by the Canadian government.
- Proof of Payment: Receipts or proof of payment for the required visa application fees.
Once you have all your documents, you can submit your work permit application.
Wait for work permit approval
After submitting your work permit application, there will be a waiting period while the authorities process your application.
The processing time can vary, so it’s a good idea to check the average processing times for work permits in your specific category.
In the meantime, you need to maintain your legal status in Canada, such as abiding by the terms of your tourist visa.
Transition to a worker
Once your work permit is approved, you’ll receive an official document that allows you to legally work in Canada. At this point, you can begin your employment with the company that offered you the job.
While working, you need to understand your work permit’s conditions, it helps you remain lawful.
Conclusion
While it’s not easy to find a job on a tourist visa in Canada due to restrictions, the country does offer legitimate pathways for you to transition from a tourist to a worker and work legally.
You just need to submit an application and obtain your Temporary Resident Visa, with your Temporary Resident Visa, you can apply for a work permit. If your work permit application is approved, you can transition from being a tourist to a temporary worker, enhancing both your career and your Canadian adventure.
