Work Visa for a Virtual Job/Work from Home

[androide520]

Hello,

I'm currently looking to get a work visa so that I can work in Canada for a year and apply for permanent residency. I wonder, if I get a virtual job based in Windsor, ON, through the Government of Canada's job bank; do I need a work visa to do it? And even if it's not necessary to get a work visa, can I still get one so I can move to Canada?

Cheers and thanks in advance,
André

 

[scylla]

Hello,

I'm currently looking to get a work visa so that I can work in Canada for a year and apply for permanent residency. I wonder, if I get a virtual job based in Windsor, ON, through the Government of Canada's job bank; do I need a work visa to do it? And even if it's not necessary to get a work visa, can I still get one so I can move to Canada?

Cheers and thanks in advance,
André

Yes, you would need a work permit if you are physically working from Canada.

In order to apply for the work permit, you need a job offer from a Canadian employer and that employer needs to obtain an approved LMIA.

 

[androide520]

But what if it is a virtual job/work from home?

 

[scylla]

But what if it is a virtual job/work from home?

If it's a virtual job where you are allowed to work outside of Canada, then there is no need for you to be in Canada and a work permit will not be approved. In that case your only option would be to work for the employer outside of Canada. Working from within Canada will not be an option.

If it's a virtual job that requires you to be physically in Canada, then you need a work permit. To get a work permit, you need a job offer and an approved LMIA from the employer.

 

[androide520]

I see. Thank you very much. One last question: whether the virtual job requires me to be physically in Canada is up to the discretion of the employer?

 

[scylla]

I see. Thank you very much. One last question: whether the virtual job requires me to be physically in Canada is up to the discretion of the employer?

Yes, this is 100% at the discretion of the employer.

 

[androide520]

Got it. Thanks a lot, you've been a huge help