Thank you for your reply. Are you speaking from experience or just by knowledge? I'm pretty knowledgeable in Canadian immigration as well (so I'm inclined to assume that it's possible to enter with a visa since that's what allows you to enter the country) but I'm looking for someone who went through the same thing. CIC's hotline is not reliable at all for this kind of questions.
I do know that. But I have previously arrived in canada as a worker, showed my visa to the officer but he also asked if I had the permit (which I did have). So I'm hoping that it isn't a requirement (wouldn't make sense because I'm sure they can see that on their screens).
Update: I was able to enter Canada but got scolded by the border agent. She said a visa is not enough and its only purpose is for airlines to check if you are eligible to board the flight - next time I need to bring the permit with me (her words). Of course this was in the part of the airport where people with study/work permits need to go, those of you with visitor visas need not to worry.
