Tourist Visa > Work Permit when re-entering Canada

[Schwesthi]

Hi
I am currently in Canada on Tourist Visa but I want to start working. I found a job offer, now I need a work permit as fast as possible. By coincidence I fly home (Switzerland) for my brother's wedding for 2 weeks. My plan is to apply for a temporary work permit when re-entering Canada after this wedding. My port of entry will be Toronto. Has anyone tried this yet? Experiences?

 

[scylla]

Do you have an approved LMIA from your employer in addition to the job offer?

If so, then you can apply for the work permit at the POE when you re-enter Canada.

 

[Schwesthi]

Not yet. I just found out that I need that. Apparently it takes very long to get an LMIA...
Do you know the process?

 

[Schwesthi]

My Job Offer is from an Indian Band (First Nations) I don't know if this makes a difference...?

 

[scylla]

Jobs / individuals that are exempt from LMIAs are here (I don't know if your job is exempt):

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/apply-who-permit.asp

Yes - the LMIA process takes a long time unfortunately. Your employer has to start by posting the job for a minimum of a month to prove no Canadian could be hired for the role. The employer must then submit the LMIA application for processing, including a $1K fee. Processing can take anywhere from 6 to 16+ weeks.

 

[Schwesthi]

Puuh! That's LONG!
Well.. if we have to go through, we have to go through...

Anyone knows if Indian Band-employers are exempt from LMIA? The exemptions on CIC are very vague...