It’s one of the most common assumptions visitors make: “Once I’m in Canada, I can switch to a different permit.” But the rules are far more restrictive than people realize.

In most cases, you cannot apply for a study or work permit from inside Canada if you entered as a visitor—unless you fall under a specific exemption.

For study permits, you may apply from inside Canada only if:

  • You’re a minor already studying at a recognized institution
  • You’re the spouse or dependent of a worker or international student
  • You’ve completed a short-term program and are moving to a longer one
  • You’re eligible under a public policy exception

For work permits, IRCC currently allows some visitors to apply from inside Canada if they have a valid job offer backed by an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment). This special public policy, extended into 2025, was originally launched during COVID and remains a key exception.

If none of these apply to you, you will likely have to leave Canada and apply from abroad or re-enter through “flagpoling.”

Key eligibility points:

  • Visitor status does not automatically allow transition to a permit
  • You must prove eligibility under a valid public policy or exemption
  • Applying without qualifying can lead to refusal and loss of status

We advise visitors not to guess. Each situation is different—and one misstep could mean months of delay or forced departure. If you’re trying to shift from visitor to student or worker, we’ll evaluate your case against the current public policies to give you a legal path forward.