Visitor in need of WP

[ifeoluwaolaitan]

Hi all,

I arrived in Canada in August with a 3-year visitor's visa. I will like to work at some point. How long do I have to wait before applying for a WP?

Thanks.

 

[scylla]

In order to qualify to apply for a work permit you must first secure a full time job offer from an employer in Canada. That employer must then obtain an approved LMIA (permission to hire you). The LMIA process will require your employer to advertise the job for at least a month to prove no Canadian could be hired for the role. Your employer will the have to submit the LMIA application along with a $1K fee. Processing of the LMIA application may take as long as four months. If the LMIA is approved (not all are), then you can apply for a work permit tied to that specific employer.

Note that it tends to be very difficult to find employers willing to go through the LMIA process.

Also, hopefully you are aware that your 3-year visitor's visa does not allow you to stay in Canada for three years.

 

[ifeoluwaolaitan]

Thanks Scylla for your prompt response. It was quite helpful. However, I would like to know if it is possible to get an OWP without having a job offer.

And yes, I am aware and do not intend staying that long.

Once again, thanks.

Ife.

 

[scylla]

Thanks Scylla for your prompt response. It was quite helpful. However, I would like to know if it is possible to get an OWP without having a job offer.

On what basis do you think you qualify for an OWP? Only certain people qualify for an OWP.

Are you accompanying a spouse who is in Canada as an international student? Are you accompanying a spouse who is in Canada as a foreign worker and who has a full time job that is NOC A, B or 0?