Should I leave the U.S. before I have my ITA? Can I work in Canada while I wait?

[judgie]

I'm reading over and over again that the processing time for Express Entry is 4-6 months in order to receive an ITA. I was planning on being in Canada likely before my ITA came through. My question is, am I better off not even entering Canada until I have my ITA? If I enter Canada prior to receiving that, am I able to work? I cannot imagine living there for 4-6months without being able to work. If that's the case I'm better off waiting it out in the United States.

 

[OolongLikeALittlePuppy]

There is no fixed time for ITA. If your score is high enough, you will get it in the next round of invitation. It's 4-6 months to get your PR after you submit your application. I don't think submitting the application will grant you a valid work visa.

 

[judgie]

I think the question is really, what am I supposed to do while I wait to see if I get a PR? Can I work in Canada while I wait to see if the PR comes through?

 

[appar]

Do you have a work permit in Canada right now? If no, you cannot work in Canada until your PR is approved and you land.

 

[OolongLikeALittlePuppy]

You need some kind of work permit to be able to work in Canada. There are different options but you need to find one that fits your situation.