Changing status: temporary worker to visitor

[Ro46]

Hi there,

I'm a Brit here on a 1-year work permit. I recently decided I'd like to come back for another year as I'm allowed ONE more work visa through BUNAC (SWAP, here). My current visa expires on Nov 30 and I know I have to return to the UK to reapply. What I want to know is if I can apply for a change of status (to visitor status), stay for a few more weeks getting things sorted (but obviously not working), then go home and wait out the few weeks before I can come back. Is it relatively easy to change a work permit to a visitors permit? Is there any potential impact on my second visa application if I do this?

This all sounds really complicated, I hope someone gets it...

Thanks!
R

 

[matthewc]

Not complicated at all, just submit the application to extend your stay as a visitor before your current work permit expires. Don't mention the plan to later apply for another work permit - keep it simple and just request the few weeks extra.

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/extend-stay.asp

There should be no impact on your subsequent work permit application.

 

[Ro46]

Thanks Matthew, that's really helpful. I'm going to have to wait and see if I can submit my second visa application from Canada - if so, I'll definitely consider staying a few weeks extra.
Cheers for your help

 

[Rob87]

As long as this is completed before the end of your working visa is that ok? or does it need to be at least 30 days before?