Getting a job offer while in Canada on a visit visa doesn't automatically let you start working — group members emphasized that converting status requires a specific legal pathway.
What group members said:- Changing status from visitor to worker generally requires an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) obtained by the employer, confirming no qualified Canadian worker is available for the role.
- It is possible, but not simple or fast — the employer needs to be willing to go through the LMIA process, which takes time and isn't guaranteed to succeed.
- There are some work permit categories that don't require a job offer at all (e.g., open work permits tied to other eligibility, such as a spouse's status), so it's worth checking whether you qualify for one of those instead of relying solely on an employer-driven LMIA route.
Because working without authorization while on a visitor visa is a serious violation of your status, don't start working for an employer until the work permit is actually approved — a job offer alone does not grant permission to work.