Can You Change a Tourist Visa to a Permanent Resident in Canada?

By Travis P June 25, 2019 (Updated March 8, 2023) 2 min. read

If you are visiting Canada on a visitor visa it is very difficult to turn that visitor visa into permanent residency. In most cases, you would not be able to meet the requirements for permanent residency while in Canada on a visit. In cases where you are able to successfully turn a visitor visa into permanent residency, it is because of extenuating circumstances such as qualifying for refugee status or being in a relationship with a partner that already has Canadian citizenship. However, if you have fallen in love with Canada and would like to immigrate, there are a few things that you can you do while in Canada on a visitor visa.

Option 1: Work Permit

The first option you can explore is the possibility of working in Canada. Canada offers work permits to qualified candidates which allows them to move to Canada. In many cases, obtaining a work permit is seen as the first step in becoming a permanent resident in Canada.  You can use the time that you are in Canada as a visitor to look at different companies and job opportunities. In order to obtain a work permit, an employer will need to offer you an employment offer and you will have to apply for a work permit.

Usually, you would likely have to return to your home country because work permits can take a significant amount of time to be granted. However, as of February 28, 2023, an extension on a policy has been made that states foreign nationals who are visiting Canada can apply for a work permit and work in the country if they receive a valid job offer without leaving the country.

Option 2: Study Permit

The second option that you might want to explore is applying to a Canadian university. If you want to continue your education, this would be a good option. Canada boasts several world-class universities and a degree from one of them could help enhance your career. In order to apply for a study permit, you must first apply to and be accepted to a university in Canada. While you are in Canada, you could visit several of the universities and explore what type of program you would be interested in. If you are accepted to a university, you can begin the study permit application. Like the work permit option, you might need to return to your home country before you are approved for a study permit.

Are You a Tourist in Canada Who Wants to Become a Permanent Resident?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 866.934.7447.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Click here to fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form below and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

Wasi Mesbahuddin Avatar

Wasi Mesbahuddin

Second time working with Visaplace, and was successful again with a visa application for parents (2 out of 2). Worked with Felicita and Mansi, strong guidance, very detailed approach to putting together a very thorough and comprehensive application. Good feedback and support throughout the full process. Highly recommend Visaplace!

Maria Accounting Avatar

Maria Accounting

We are incredibly grateful to Attorney Felicita and her outstanding team for their exceptional legal support. Thanks to their expertise, professionalism, and efficiency, we were able to secure two work visas and a visitor visa for our family members — all within a remarkably short period of time.

Attorney Felicita’s leadership, attention to detail, and deep knowledge of immigration law made the entire process smooth and stress-free. The team was responsive, thorough, and truly committed to achieving the best outcome for us.

We highly recommend Attorney Felicita and her team to anyone in need of skilled and reliable legal representation. Their dedication and results speak for themselves.

Thank you 🙏

Maria El khazen

Manale Avatar

Manale

Felicita and her team are amazing. They’re so professional. It’s not the first time that i refer to them to submit my applications and never fail to achieve satisfying results

Ljiljana Pavkov Avatar

Ljiljana Pavkov

I have nothing but praise! The entire team was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and kind, especially Mansi Sanghiv. She patiently explained everything I needed to know and resolved all of my concerns. I felt safe and well taken care of throughout the entire process. I am extremely satisfied with the service and experience, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking for quality, dedication, and trust.

Lisanne Cholette Avatar

Lisanne Cholette

Mansi has been helping me navigate through a new chapter in my life. It has been a huge comfort to be able to lean on her knowledge and expertise and I would highly recommend her to anyone!

BERLITA COLLADO Avatar

BERLITA COLLADO

I am so very thankful to the VISAPACE team for making it all come true and possible from my Open Work Permit to my Permanent Residence, you make it all happen .Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart , Thank you for being part of my achievements. Now I am now a Permanent Residence through the effort, power and knowledge of VISAPLACE LEGAL TEAM.
Sending you my best appreciation and thank you.

Berlie Collado

Shahrzad Sh Avatar

Shahrzad Sh

“I truly want to thank Mansi. Her patience and thoughtful advices made a big difference for me. Her recommendations were not only helpful but also gave me clearer insight. Words can’t fully express how grateful I am for her support.”