Foreign nationals looking for employment in Canada should apply for a work permit from outside the country. IRCC offers specific pathways for individuals to apply from within Canada under particular conditions. Here is the outline of the nine key scenarios which will make this possible and what are the steps the applicant needs to follow.
Valid Study or Work Permit Holders
The applicant has to make an application for a new Canada work permit before the current one expires. For this, the applicant should already hold a valid study or work permit and physically be present in Canada. This allows for a smooth transition between statuses without the need to leave the country.
Spouse, Common-Law Partner, or Parent Has a Valid Permit
If the spouse, common law partner, or parent of an individual holds a valid study or work permit may apply for their own work permit. They can make the application as long as the permit of the family member remains valid and all the other eligibility criteria are met.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility
When students complete their studies in Canada at a Designated Learning Institution and still hold a valid study permit can apply for a PGWP. The application for PGWP should be made within 180 days of receiving their final grades. A PGWP is an open work permit that allows the visa holder to work for any employer across Canada.
Temporary Resident Permit Holders
Applicants, their spouse or parent who has a Temporary Resident Permit with a validity of atleast 6months can apply for a work permit from within Canada. The temporary resident permits are given under compelling circumstances where entry into Canada is justified despite inadmissibility.
Permanent Residence Applicants Awaiting Decision
- An applicant may be eligible to apply for a work permit while remaining in the country under these conditions.
- Made a PR application under the spouse or common-law partner in Canada or the TRP class
- Received an Acknowledgement or Receipt
- Work Permit Needed for a Different Job
Specific professionals, such as artists, athletes, or guest speakers, are authorized to work in Canada without a permit. If an individual falls under this category but now wants a work permit for a different job, they can very well make an application from within Canada.
CUSMA Professionals, Transferees, Traders, or Investors
Under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), eligible professionals, intra-company transferees, traders, and investors from the U.S or Mexico can apply for a Canadian work permit. They should have a qualifying offer and meet some requirements.
Refugee Claimants
Individuals who have made or intend to make a refugee claim in Canada based on a well-founded fear of persecution or danger can apply for a work permit. The eligibility depends on IRCC accepting your claim for processing.
Convention Refugees or Protected Persons
Applicants who have been officially recognized as convention refugees or protected persons by the Immigration and Refugee Board can apply for a work permit from within the country.
Maintained Status: Continue Working or Studying Legally
When an applicant applies for a new work permit before the current one expires, they can continue to work or study under the existing permit until a decision is made. This maintained status will be taken away if the applicant leaves Canada.
How to Apply from Within Canada
To apply, applicants must:
- Make sure they meet the eligibility criteria based on their scenario.
- Applicants should prepare all the documents using the online instructions given by IRCC.
- They should prove their financial stability and intention to leave Canada once the permit expires.
- All the applicants should submit their biometrics, police clearance, or medical exams if required.
- The applicant has to pay the required fees.
All the applications should be submitted online through the IRCC’s secure account, unless exemptions apply. Early applications is advised as the current processing times application from inside Canada can exceed 230days.
Consultants at Croyez Immigration will help applicants navigate all of these pathways with expert guidance and personalized support. Contact us to get a free consultation and determine your eligibility to begin your Canadian journey.