Can I work in Canada with a tourist visa?

In general, you can’t work in Canada on a visitor (tourist) visa, because it doesn’t authorize employment in the Canadian labour market. However, some limited business-visitor activities may be allowed without a work permit under IRCC rules. A tourist visa allows foreign nationals to enter and stay temporarily in Canada for purposes such as tourism, visiting relatives or friends, or short business meetings. However, it does not grant permission to work or earn income from a Canadian employer.

Understanding the Tourist Visa (Visitor Visa)

A Canadian visitor visa (TRV) or an eTA typically allows a stay of up to 6 months, but the exact length of stay is determined at the port of entry. If you want to stay longer, you generally need to apply for a visitor record. Visitor status is meant for tourism and certain short business-visitor activities (such as meetings, conferences, or site visits), but it does not authorize you to take a job or be employed in Canada without a work permit.

Working in Canada without the relevant permit is considered unauthorized employment, which may result in severe repercussions, including visa cancellation, deportation, or restrictions on future entry.

When You Can Work Legally in Canada

To work in Canada, you must obtain one of the following work permits:

An employer-specific work permit lets you work for a particular employer. Depending on the job and program, it may require an LMIA, or it may be LMIA-exempt under the International Mobility Program.
An open work permit can allow you to work for most employers in Canada, subject to any conditions or restrictions listed on your permit. It is typically granted to:
- Spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers or international students.
- Claimants of refugees or some temporary residents.
- Participants in exchange programs, such as Working Holiday Visas.

These permits can be applied for before entering Canada or, in a few instances, in the country, provided you qualify to do so.

Exploring Options for Changing Status

When you are already in Canada with a tourist visa and a potential employer, you cannot work immediately. In the past, a temporary public policy allowed some visitors to apply for certain employer-supported work permits from within Canada. However, IRCC has ended that policy (with limited transitional processing for applications submitted before the end date), so most visitors must apply from outside Canada unless they qualify under another specific rule.

In Summary

A tourist visa does not permit employment in Canada, as it is intended solely for travel and tourism. To work legally, you need to obtain a relevant work permit from the Canadian government.

If you plan to work during your stay, prepare in advance by determining the type of visa you need, verifying your eligibility, and applying for it well in advance. Legal employment guarantees rights and an enjoyable and worry-free stay in Canada.

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