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?
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VisaPlace Immigration News Contributor
Ella Bergquist
Hello! I am one of VisaPlace's many immigration news contributors. Comment below if you have any questions or comments about this article.
