Can I change from visitor status to a work permit without leaving Canada?

In some cases, you can apply to change your status from visitor to worker inside Canada without leaving. This is only possible if you have a job offer that qualifies for a work permit and your situation falls within one of the categories IRCC allows to be processed from inside Canada. Not every work permit category can be applied for from inside the country — some require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and others are exempt.

The process of applying from inside Canada is called a "change of status" application. You must apply before your visitor status expires and remain in Canada lawfully during processing. You cannot start working until your new work permit is issued — working before that, even with a pending application, is unauthorized work.

Because the rules about which work permits can be applied for from inside Canada are specific and change over time, getting legal advice before submitting is strongly recommended. An immigration lawyer can assess whether your job offer qualifies and help prepare a correct application.