How to Convert Visitor Visa to Work Permit in Canada Without LMIA

Do you wish to work in Canada? But you don’t know how to convert a visitor’s visa to a work permit in Canada without LMIA. Let’s uncover the step-by-step guide to this process.

The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a legal document. It is proof that there was no Canadian national available for the job. That’s why there is a need to hire foreign workers. Many work permit applications require this document.

This article will tell you about all the secrets of a work permit without an LMIA. Looks impossible? Read this article. Here, you’ll find the complete guide to the application process and eligibility criteria. 

Want to live your dream life in Canada? So, let’s get started.

Can You Convert a Visitor Visa to a Work Permit Without LMIA?

You can convert a visitor visa to a work permit in Canada without LMIA. There are some conditions and different types of work permits. This way, you can easily apply.

Let’s look at conditions when there is no need for LMIA.

International Mobility Program (IMP)

The International Mobility Program allows you to obtain a work permit in Canada without LMIA.  In this case, a person hires a foreign worker without LMIA. It includes work permits under the various agreements like:

• NAFTA (now USMCA) (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement)
• CETA (Comprehensive Economy Trade Agreement)
• Intra-company transferees

For example, You are visiting Canada on an L1 visa. And your employer wants to transfer you to transfer you to their Canadian branch. This is possible under the International Mobility Program without an LMIA.

Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Suppose you were a student of any Canadian institution. So you can easily apply for a post-graduation work permit. This work experience will benefit you in the future. There is a high chance that you will be a permanent resident of Canada. 

Moreover, you can get this work permit in Canada without LMIA.

So, don’t worry after graduation, and hurry up and apply for a position on our website.

Significant Benefit Work Permit

This type of work permit is for specific people. You can get this work permit when you can prove to bring major economic benefits. Therefore, they hire those foreign workers who can provide significant advantages to the country. For example, economic, social, or cultural benefits.

The good news is that you can get this work permit without an LMA document.

Explore Open Work Permits (No LMIA Required)

You can also work for the open work permits. In this case, there is no need for LMIA, and you can work easily for any employer in Canada.

Eligibility Criteria

• Spouse of a Skilled Worker: 

If your spouse is doing a highly skilled job (NOC 0, A, or B), you can apply for an open work permit.

• Spouse of an International Student: 

If your spouse studies full-time in Canada, you are eligible for an open work permit. However, your spouse must be in a designated learning institution (DLI).

• Spousal Sponsorship:
  
  You can apply for an open work permit if your application is about the spousal sponsorship program.

First, choose the category for your work permit. Second, apply for it through our website. 

Steps to Convert Visitor Visa to Work Permit in Canada Without LMIA

Here is the complete step-by-step guide to getting your work permit in Canada without LMIA;

1. Check Your Eligibility

First, make sure you qualify for a work permit without LMIA.

Some categories include:

• Intra-company transferees
• People covered by international trade agreements (e.g., USMCA, CETA)
• Entrepreneurs or self-employed workers ( the Significant Benefit to Canada program)
• Spouse of a skilled worker
• Spousal Sponsorship
• Spouse of an international student

If you come under any of the above categories, move to the next step.

2. Gather Required Documents

The second step is to collect the following documents:

• Proof of financial stability (at least 1,000$ in a bank account)
• A job letter from a Canadian employer
• Qualifications proofs (e.g., certifications/diplomas)
• A valid passport
• Medical examination (if required)

You should also prepare valid evidence that your work permit is LMIA-exempt. Employers may need to provide details of the LMIA exemption code.  

3. Apply for the Work Permit

You can fill out the work permit application online. Follow these steps:

1. Visitor Visa Canada Online Application Form

Suppose you could not find a proper job during your visit. No worries. You can also extend your stay and submit the visitor visa application. This way, the process of getting a work permit will be easier.

2. Application for a Work Permit
   
   You can apply for a work permit in Canada or from outside the country. If you’re already on a visitor visa in Canada, apply from within the country. But first, check the categories that don’t require LMIA. 

 Wait for Approval

Once you have applied, then wait for approval. After you get approval for the work permit, you will receive a letter. This letter is a kind of entry pass. So, while traveling, keep this letter with you.

Visitor Visa to Work Permit in Canada without LMIA: Processing Time

Processing times depend on where and how you apply. If you’re applying online, it will take 16-20 days. But sometimes, the process can take several weeks due to complex situations. For example, you could not provide enough evidence or documents. So, the processing time can be 15-20 weeks.

Moreover, the processing time will be different when converting a visitor visa to Canada from the US. So, it is always to plan well in advance.

Final thoughts

In a nutshell, save yourself from the hassle of LMIA. There are so many golden opportunities to get a work permit in Canada without the LMIA. Following the exact process mentioned in the article, you can get a work permit to build a dream life. Whether you’re applying under the International Mobility Program or through other LMIA-exempt categories, it does not matter. Canada offers a lot of opportunities. So, hurry up and apply now.

FAQS

How do you get LMIA work visa for Canada? You can get an LMIA work permit if you can prove that the job offer is real. Moreover, they could not find any Canadian for this position. Employers also guarantee that their business is real and financially stable.

Can I get a work permit on a visitor visa in Canada? No, you can not. You can not apply for a work visa from within Canada because this policy has expired. But you must leave or re-enter Canada to apply for a work permit.

Is LMIA  required for a work permit in Canada? No, it is not required under specific conditions. If you are among the following categories, you don’t require the LMIA for a work permit. Intra-company transfereesPeople covered by international trade agreements (e.g., USMCA, CETA)Entrepreneurs or self-employed workers Spouse of a skilled workerSpousal Sponsorship