How to Update Your Canada Visa Information After a Change of Status

Introduction to Canada Visa Changes

Canada is a popular destination for international students, workers, and visitors. The country’s immigration policies are designed to facilitate smooth transitions for those who wish to change their status while in Canada. This article will guide you through the process of updating your Canada visa information after a change of status, focusing on the steps and requirements for students and workers.

Understanding Change of Status

What is a Change of Status?

A change of status refers to the process online casinos that accept visa debit of altering your immigration status while you are already in Canada. This can be necessary for various reasons, such as switching from a visitor status to a student status or from a work permit to a different type of work permit[3].

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a change of status, you must meet certain criteria:

Current Status : You must be in a valid nonimmigrant status.
Valid Stay : Your current status must remain valid.
No Violations : You must not have violated the conditions of your current status.
No Crimes : You must not have committed any crimes that would make you ineligible[1].

Steps to Change Your Status in Canada

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before applying for a change of status, it is crucial to determine if you are eligible. Check the specific requirements for your desired new status and ensure you meet all the necessary conditions[3].

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect all the necessary documents, including:

Study Permit : If you are changing to a student status, you will need a study permit.
Work Permit : If you are changing to a work permit, you will need a work permit.
Proof of Acceptance : Proof of acceptance from an educational institution or employer.
Financial Documents : Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself in Canada.
Passport : Your valid passport.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Submit your application online through your IRCC secure account. Ensure all documentation and information requested are provided with your application[3].

Specific Instructions for Students

Changing to a Student Status

If you are already in Canada on a valid nonimmigrant visa and wish to study at a SEVP-certified school, you can apply for a change of status to F-1 nonimmigrant student status.

Apply to and Receive Acceptance from an SEVP-Certified School
- Apply to and receive acceptance from an SEVP-certified school.
Obtain an Initial Form I-20
- Obtain an initial Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," from the SEVP-certified school.
- The designated school official (DSO) should give change of status in the Issue Reason section of the Form I-20.
Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee
- Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee.
File a Form I-539
- File a Form I-539, "Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status," with USCIS.
- Not all nonimmigrant classifications are eligible to change to student status. Read the instructions carefully to ensure that your nonimmigrant classification is eligible for a change of status[1].

Special Instructions for Changing to F-1 Status from B-1/B-2 Status

If you are changing status from B-1/B-2 to F or M student, refrain from enrolling in or beginning your studies until USCIS has approved your change of status. Enrolling in a course of study while in B-1/B-2 status, or any status that does not permit you to enroll in a program of study, will result in a status violation. If USCIS has not adjudicated your change of status at least 15 days before the program start date on your Form I-20, contact the DSO at your new school. You may need to wait to attend (have deferred attendance)[1].

Specific Instructions for Workers

Changing to a Work Permit

If you are already in Canada on a valid nonimmigrant visa and wish to work, you can apply for a change of status to a work permit.

Apply for a New Work Permit
- Apply for a new work permit through your IRCC secure account.
- Ensure you meet all the requirements for your desired work permit, including having a job offer from a Canadian employer and obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) if required.
Submit Required Documents
- Submit all required documents, including proof of a job offer, LMIA, and proof of sufficient funds to support yourself in Canada.
Pay Fees
- Pay the required fees for your new work permit application.
Wait for Approval
- Wait for USCIS to approve your application. Once approved, you can begin working in your new role[1].

Restoration of Status

If you have lost your temporary resident status, you may be able to restore it within 90 days if you meet certain conditions:

Stayed Longer Than Authorized : If you stayed in Canada longer than the period authorized for your stay but not longer than 90 days.
Changed Employers or Work : If you changed employers, location of employment, or type of work before obtaining a new work permit.
Changed Studies : If you changed the type of studies, educational institution, location of studies, or times and periods of studies without applying to change these conditions on your study permit if they were specified on your study permit[3].

Submitting the Application

Online Instructions

To apply online, you must have:

Access to a Scanner or Camera : To create electronic copies of your documents to upload.
Valid Credit Card : To pay with.

You will be required to create an online account profile and to register or log in using GCKey or Sign In Partner[3].

Factors That Can Facilitate Processing

There are certain things you can do to help ensure that your application is processed as fast as possible:

Ensure All Documentation is Provided : Ensure that all the documentation and information requested are provided with your application.
Advise of Changes in Contact Information : Advise us via the change of address link of any change to your contact information, including mailing address, telephone numbers, facsimile number (fax), and email address[3].

Factors That May Delay Processing

The following factors may delay the processing of your application:

Missing Signature on Application Forms
Missing Documentation
Incorrect Fee Payment
Unclear Photocopies of Documents
Documents Not Accompanied by a Certified English or French Translation
Verification of Information and Documents Provided
A Medical Condition That May Require Additional Tests or Consultations
A Criminal or Security Problem
Consultation Required with Other Offices in Canada and Abroad

Quality Assurance Program

Our quality assurance program randomly selects applications for a special review. If selected, you will be asked to attend an interview with an IRCC official to verify the documentation you submitted is accurate and that your application has been completed properly[3].

Conclusion

Updating your Canada visa information after a change of status requires careful planning and adherence to specific requirements. By understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering required documents, and following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth transition into your new status. Remember to submit your application online, ensure all documentation is provided, and be prepared for potential delays in processing. With these steps, you can successfully navigate the process and continue your journey in Canada.

Additional Resources

IRCC Website : For more information on the programs offered by IRCC, visit their website.
Application Forms : Use the Document Checklist [IMM 5555] to assist you in gathering the supporting documents to submit with your application.
Online Support : If you need assistance with your application, contact IRCC’s online support team.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your application for a change of status in Canada is processed efficiently and effectively, allowing you to continue your studies or work in the country without any issues.