How to Convert a Visitor Visa to a Work Permit in Canada

Many international visitors in Canada eventually consider working, settling, or making Canada their long-term home. If you arrived with a visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa), you might wonder whether you can shift into a work permit without leaving the country.

Not long ago, special COVID-era rules made this possible in limited cases. But those rules changed in 2024. This blog explains exactly what changed, what is still possible, and how to plan if you hope to convert or transition to work status legally. Throughout, ICAN Immigration Lawyers is here to guide you safely and effectively.

What Is a Visitor Visa & What Are Its Limitations?

A visitor visa (also called a Temporary Resident Visa, or TRV) allows you to enter Canada temporarily for visits, tourism, family, or short stays. It does not grant you permission to work or study (unless authorized separately).

Key Limitations

• No employment allowed: Visitors cannot legally work without a separate work permit.
• Temporary duration: Usually stays up to 6 months or as determined at entry.
• Cannot automatically change to work status: The visitor visa alone doesn’t provide a right to convert into a work permit from within Canada under standard rules.
• Strict enforcement: Overstaying, unauthorized work, or misrepresentation can lead to refusal of future applications or removal proceedings.

Because of these limits, the idea of “visitor → work permit conversion” is only possible in very narrow, constrained situations now.

Can I Convert My Visitor Visa to a Work Permit?

In most cases, NO IRCC formally ended a temporary public policy that allowed visitors to apply for work permits from inside Canada. This termination took effect as of August 28, 2024.

Before that date, under the COVID-era rule, visitors who met specific requirements (e.g., having a valid job offer, visitor status, or having held a work permit previously) could apply from inside Canada. However, that pathway is closed for new applications as of August 28, 2024.

In 2025 and beyond, if you’re on a visitor visa and seeking work status, you generally must use standard work permit pathways, including applying from outside Canada (or via certain exceptions). You can also extend your visitor visa till further proceedings of a work permit.

Exceptional Cases: When Visitor → Work Permit Conversion Is Still Possible

Although the general route is closed, there are a few exceptions or special categories in IRCC rules where someone in Canada may obtain a work permit or open work permit under specific conditions.

(1)  Spouse / Common-Law Partner Open Work Permit (SOWP) for Workers or Students

One of the main exceptions is open work permit eligibility for spouses or common-law partners of foreign workers or international students. IRCC maintains rules permitting such permits under certain conditions.

Key points and changes:

• As of January 21, 2025, IRCC updated eligibility for family members of workers. Only select spouses/common-law partners may apply under this measure.
• The principal worker must be employed in a TEER 0 or 1 occupation, or a select TEER 2/3 job.
• The principal worker’s permit must have at least 16 months of validity remaining upon receiving the spouse’s open work permit application.
• For spouses of international students: from April 30, 2024, only students in master’s, doctoral, or certain professional degree programs make their spouse eligible.

You are likely ineligible under the new rules:

• If your spouse works in TEER 4 or 5, you are likely ineligible under the new rules.
• If your spouse works in TEER 2 or 3, but the job is not one of the selected jobs.
• If your spouse is not a student in master’s, doctoral, or certain professional degree programs.
• If your spouse’s work permit length is shorter than 16 months from the day you apply for an open work permit.
• Eligibility is strictly checked; weak documentation or mismatches can lead to refusal.

(2)  Spousal Sponsorship Open Work Permit (PR Application in Canada)

Another pathway is for spouses or partners applying for permanent residence under the Spouse / Common-Law Partner in Canada class. While waiting for the PR application, eligible spouses can apply for an open work permit.

To use this path:

• You must have a valid temporary resident status (visitor, student, or worker) or have applied for restoration.
• You must apply online via IRCC’s open work permit process, which is connected to your PR application.
• If your work permit or visitor status is expiring soon, applying for PR can trigger eligibility for the open work permit.

This is not exactly converting from visitor to worker, but a legal route to transition status when tied to a PR sponsorship. You can also sponsor your elders on a Super Visa.

5. Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do If You Qualify Under an Exception

If you believe you satisfy one of the exception categories (e.g., as a spouse of a specified worker, a spouse of a specified student, or a PR sponsor), here’s how to proceed:

1. Confirm your eligibility
   Check your status, your spouse’s permit, their occupation (TEER classification), and relationship documentation.
2. Gather documentation
   • Your valid identity and visitor status
   • Spouse’s valid work permit and proof of employment
   • Relationship proof (marriage certificate, joint accounts, leases)
   • Job classification (TEER level) as required
3. Complete the IRCC open work permit application
   • Choose the correct category (spouse, PR, open work permit, etc.)
   • Fill online forms accurately
4. Submit supporting documents and pay fees/biometrics
   • Include all identity, relationship, spouse’s info, job classification, etc.
   • Pay the required permit and biometrics fees
5. Wait for the decision
   • Do not begin working until permit approval
   • If your application was submitted under the old rules before August 28, 2024, it will be processed under the old policy
6. Once approved, your status changes, and you can legally work per the permit terms

6. What Is Not Allowed Under Current IRCC Rules

Under today’s IRCC framework:

• You cannot submit a new work permit application from visitor status under the old temporary policy after August 28, 2024.
• You cannot start working until your permit is approved
• You cannot rely on COVID flexibilities or older policies that no longer exist
• You cannot treat visitor status as a backdoor to work — without meeting a recognized exception

7. Deciding Factors That Influence Approval Under Exceptions

To be granted an exception, IRCC scrutinizes:

• Your spouse’s occupation (TEER 0/1 or eligible TEER 2/3)
• Your spouse’s study program (master’s, doctoral, or certain professional degree programs)
• Whether your spouse’s permit has sufficient remaining validity (16+ months)
• Your relationship proof and status in Canada
• Your admissibility (criminal, health, etc.)
• The strength and clarity of the employer/permit documentation

When applying for a work permit from a visitor status under allowable exceptions, IRCC evaluates more than just eligibility criteria. Officers conduct a holistic assessment of your case to determine whether it aligns with Canada’s immigration laws and policies.

Key Deciding Factors:

• Principal Applicant’s Job Classification
  IRCC checks whether your spouse or partner (the worker or student) is employed in a qualifying occupation under TEER 0, 1, or an eligible TEER 2/3 role. The classification of their occupation is critical to your eligibility.
• Permit Validity
  The principal applicant’s work or study permit must generally have at least 16 months of validity left at the time of your application for an open work permit. Shorter durations may lead to refusal.
• Relationship Evidence: A genuine, legally recognized marriage or common-law relationship must be clearly demonstrated with solid documentation: joint leases, utility bills, travel history, affidavits, etc.
• Status in Canada
  You must hold a valid temporary resident status in Canada (i.e., visitor, not expired), or have applied for restoration of status.
• Consistency of Purpose and Intention
  One often-overlooked but critical factor is how well your application aligns with your original stated purpose for coming to Canada. When you applied for a visitor visa, you indicated that you were coming only for a temporary visit, such as for tourism or to visit family.

Changing your intention shortly after arrival—from being a visitor to pursuing work—can raise red flags. Immigration officers may ask:

• Did the applicant always intend to work and misrepresent their purpose?
  • What new circumstances justify this shift in intention?
  • Are there credible, well-documented reasons for this change?

What You Must Do:
If you apply for a work permit from a visitor status (under allowable exceptions), include a clear and persuasive explanation for why your plans changed. You must show:

• That your change of intention is genuine and recent, not premeditated deception.
  • That your new purpose aligns with Canadian immigration objectives (e.g., family reunification, spousal support).
  • Supporting documents, such as letters from your spouse, employment contracts, or changes in personal circumstances.

Remember, one of the original assessments for issuing a visitor visa is whether the applicant has sufficient ties to return home. When you later apply to stay and work, your credibility can come under scrutiny, unless your reasoning is clear, consistent, and well-supported. Understand the importance of and the Role of Biometrics so that your process remains free of hindrance.

8. What You Must Prove: Essential Documentation

Your application must include clear, strong evidence such as:

• Proof of your visitor status (passport, visitor record)
• Spouse’s valid work permit and job details
• Proof that the job meets the TEER requirement
• Relationship documentation (marriage, joint leases, shared finances)
• Your personal credentials or resume (to support connection)
• Clear, organized files to avoid gaps or suspicion

When applying to convert your visitor visa into a work permit, the strength and clarity of your documentation can make or break your case. Immigration officers rely heavily on the evidence you provide to assess your eligibility, credibility, and genuine intent. Below is a detailed guide on the types of documents you should include and why each is critical.

(1)  Proof of Your Current Visitor Status

• Valid Passport Pages showing your biographical details, entry stamps, and any existing visas.
• Visitor Record (if applicable): This document confirms your current legal status in Canada as a visitor.
• Record of Entry: This can be the electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or landing slip indicating your most recent entry into Canada.

             Why it matters: Establishes that you are legally present in Canada and eligible to apply for a status

             change.

(2)  Principal Applicant’s Work or Study Permit & Job Details

• Copy of Your Spouse’s or Partner’s Valid Work or Study Permit: It must be valid for at least 6 months (ideally 16 months) beyond your application date.
• Employment Verification Letter: From the spouse’s employer, detailing job title, duties, employment status (full-time/part-time), salary, and employment duration.
• Job Offer Letter or Contract: If available, official documentation confirming your spouse’s employment.
• NOC or TEER Classification Proof: Official documentation or IRCC guidance proving that the spouse’s occupation meets the eligibility criteria (TEER 0, 1, or eligible TEER 2/3).

Why it matters: Confirms the legitimacy of the job tied to your eligibility for an open work permit.

(3)  Evidence That the Job Meets TEER Requirements

• NOC Code Documentation: Printouts or IRCC references for the TEER level classification of the spouse’s occupation.
• Job Description from Employer: Detailing tasks and responsibilities that align with the TEER classification.

               Why it matters: The eligibility for an open work permit often depends on the spouse’s job falling

               within specific occupational categories.

(4)  Relationship Documentation (Proving Genuine and Continuing Relationship)

• Marriage Certificate or Common-Law Declaration: Legal proof of your marital or common-law status.
• Joint Lease or Mortgage Agreement: Documents showing shared residence.
• Shared Utility Bills (electricity, water, internet): Reflecting both names at the same address over several months.
• Joint Bank Account Statements: Showing shared finances.
• Photos Together: At significant life events or casual settings, supporting the relationship’s authenticity.
• Communication Records: Such as emails, chat logs, and call records showing ongoing contact, especially if you have lived apart at any time.
• Affidavits from Friends or Family: Confirming your relationship.

          Why it matters: Demonstrates that your relationship is genuine and not solely for immigration

          purposes.

(5)  Your Personal Credentials and Employment History (Supporting Your Connection to Work)

• Resume or CV: Detailing your qualifications, education, and work history.
• Previous Work Permits or Employment Letters: If applicable, show your work history and experience.
• Education Credentials: Diplomas, transcripts, or certificates supporting your qualifications.

        Why it matters: Though the work permit may be open (not employer-specific), your background

        adds credibility to your application and future employability.

(6)  A Clear and Coherent Explanation of Change in Intent

• Written Letter of Explanation(This has to be very convincing and  credible): Detailing why your purpose changed from visitor to worker, explaining new circumstances such as:
  • Marriage or common-law partnership with a work or study permit holder.
  • Change in personal or family circumstances requiring you to work.
  • Any other relevant reasons supporting your request

• Supporting Documents: Medical reports, family emergency documentation, or letters from employers/spouse to corroborate your explanation.

        Why it matters: Immigration officers assess your intent carefully. This narrative helps demonstrate

        good faith and coherence with your initial visitor status.

Important Tips for Organizing Your Application:

• Use clear tabbing and labels for all documents.
• Be honest and transparent in your letter of Explanation
• Include translations if documents are not in English or French.
• Ensure there are no gaps in dates or unclear timelines.
• Double-check all documents for completeness and legibility.
• Keep copies of everything submitted for your records.

Common Consequence of Weak Documentation:

Insufficient or poorly organized evidence is one of the leading causes of refusal in visitor-to-work permit conversions. Applications lacking solid proof of relationship, legal status, or spouse’s qualifying employment will likely be denied or delayed.

Summary Checklist:

Document Type	Examples	Purpose
Visitor Status Proof	Passport, visitor record	Confirms legal stay in Canada
Spouse’s Work/Study Permit & Job Proof	Work permit, employer letters, NOC/TEER proof	Verifies eligibility linked to spouse’s job
Relationship Evidence	Marriage certificate, joint leases, photos	Proves genuine partnership
Personal Credentials	Resume, education certificates	Supports your employability and background
Letter of Explanation	Written statement + supporting docs	Explains the change of intention clearly

9. Pitfalls to Watch Out For

Many applications fail due to:

• Applying under the wrong or expired policy
• Weak or vague job/spouse documentation
• Spouse in an ineligible TEER job
• Visitor status expired or was invalid at the time of application
• Starting work before permit approval
• Your explanation and supporting documents provide low credibility
• Misrepresentation or incomplete information

Always proceed carefully and double-check your eligibility.

10. Conditions for Highest Likelihood of Success

If you want the strongest chance, aim to satisfy:

• Spouse’s job in TEER 0 or 1 (or eligible TEER 2/3)
• Spouse’s permit has ≥ 16 months of validity left
• Spouse program is master’s, doctoral, or certain professional degree programs
• You have a valid temporary status (visitor) at the time of application
• Solid relationship documents
• No visa or immigration violations
• Fully compliant, accurate, and clear application
• Credible, honest, and coherent supporting documents

11. What ICAN Immigration Law Group Lawyers Can Do for You

Navigating these changes and exception paths is complex. ICAN Immigration Lawyers can assist you in:

• Eligibility assessment: determining whether you qualify under the open work permit or spousal rules
• Document preparation: ensuring employer, TEER, permit, and relationship documents are valid and strong
• Application drafting & submission: building a professional, compliant application
• Refusal support & alternative planning: if your application is denied, we help with appeals or alternate strategies
• Policy updates & strategy advising: because immigration rules change, we keep you in the loop

Contact ICAN Immigration law firm today to smoothen out the process through appropriate guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers