URGENT HELP Unpaid internship? What visa URGENT

[perdi1998]

Hi,
I have already been offered a formal job offer, but it is for an unpaid internship for 6-8 months. I have the means to support myself. This internship is with a family friend who is letting me shadow and assist her. I am moving from the UK to Vancouver. This job would not have been offered to other Canadians on the labour market and thus, may not need an LMIA - as it was not an open job, I am there as an extra helping hand whilst she is struggling.

Some have suggested me going as a business visitor on a visitors visa, but this is only up to 6 months and I have signed a lease for 8 months.
I have applied to the IEC pool, so perhaps if that is quick that is an option.

Are there any other options/advice? Who can i speak to for advice?
Thank you! Really need help asap as I am meant to be moving end of august, in just over two months.

 

[scylla]

Hi,
I have already been offered a formal job offer, but it is for an unpaid internship for 6-8 months. I have the means to support myself. This internship is with a family friend who is letting me shadow and assist her. I am moving from the UK to Vancouver. This job would not have been offered to other Canadians on the labour market and thus, may not need an LMIA - as it was not an open job, I am there as an extra helping hand whilst she is struggling.

Some have suggested me going as a business visitor on a visitors visa, but this is only up to 6 months and I have signed a lease for 8 months.
I have applied to the IEC pool, so perhaps if that is quick that is an option.

Are there any other options/advice? Who can i speak to for advice?
Thank you! Really need help asap as I am meant to be moving end of august, in just over two months.

An IEC visa is really the only realistic option. However I'm not sure if there are any visas remaining in the pool for this year if you are a UK national.

Otherwise you need a closed work permit which requires your employer to obtian an approved LMIA.

You cannot take up the internship on a TRV since what you are doing is classified as working even thought you are unpaid. A temporary business visa is also not an option. You need a work permit.