Help CenterYour work permit "must leave by date" determines how long you can stay in Canada for. In some instances, this date is either the same or close to your camp contract end date. If so, you will need to change your status to a visitor if you wish to stay longer in Canada. Please read this article carefully before beginning.
This is the support guide for those looking to change their status to a visitor. Please do not follow these instructions if your camp has asked you to extend your work permit to continue working, for the work permit extension process read our 'Extending Your Stay as a Worker' article.
Very Important: You must complete your application before your current work permit "leave by date". If not, you will lose legal status in Canada and you must leave immediately - you cannot submit an online application after the expire date has surpassed.
Do I need to apply to change my status to a visitor?
If you wish to stay in Canada past the "must leave by date" on your work permit, you must apply to change your status. An eTA only allows you to enter Canada, it does not, however, provide you with legal status to remain in Canada.
If you're not sure on how to read your work permit expiry/leave by date, please see our read our 'Work Permit - Basics' article.
How do I begin my application to change my status to a visitor?
It's important to complete the application on a computer (as Adobe Reader 10 is required and it is not compatible with mobile phone/ipads)
- Set-up or login to your IRCC account
- Complete the questionnaire for your personal reference code
- In your IRCC account, select ‘Visitor visa, study and/or work permit’.
- Enter your personal reference code from the questionnaire when prompted.
- Complete all application items
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- Application form IMM5708
- Family Information Form IMM5707
- Proof of Means of Financial Support (may include bank statements, pay stubs, letter from a person providing you with financial support, etc.)
- Digital Photo
Submit your application before your work permit "must leave by date"
Will I have to pay any fees?
The application will cost $100 CAD.
When do I need to complete my application to change my status to a visitor?
You must complete this before your current work permit "must leave by date", otherwise you will not be able to apply and you will lose status in Canada. You will need to leave Canada immediately.
I'm having trouble opening the PDF forms on the IRCC application.
If you're having trouble, please see our technical support article.