Canada Updates Its Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads

Canada Updates Its Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads

New information about the Digital Nomad Visa Program has been made public by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

In an effort to draw business and skilled talent to the country, the IRCC unveiled a Tech Talent Strategy last year that is comprised of four major components. In a recent statement, the organism made clear the conditions that might bar digital nomads from entering the nation.

Without further ado, these are the new updates:

Can a digital nomad be employed by a Canadian company?

Only if they get a work permit, which is a different type of visa.

What extra paperwork is needed in order to obtain a digital nomad visa?

A visa requires that certain requirements be met. Applicants need to:

  • Work outside of Canada.
  • Have a job that allows them to work from home.
  • Show that they have enough money to cover your entire six-month stay in Canada.
  • showcase their connections to Canada by booking accommodation with friends or relatives.

They still have to persuade the immigration officer that they intend to depart Canada when their permitted stay expires.

When should a digital nomad submit a work permit application?

If digital nomads come across a Canadian employer that’s willing to hire them, they will need to apply for a work permit in Canada.

How much time can a digital nomad stay in Canada?

To relocate to Canada for a maximum of six months at a time, a digital nomad needs visitor status in order to work remotely for an international employer, work for themselves as independent contractors, or provide services to clients outside of the country.

Can digital nomads’ families work or study in Canada?

Applying for a work permit or study permit is necessary for family members of digital nomads who are willing to work or study in the country.

Open Work Permit for H-1B specialty occupation visa holders

Through the introduction of an effective work permit for holders of H-1B specialty occupation visas in the US looking for employment opportunities in Canada, this country is also promoting labor mobility within North America.

Numerous experts in the high-tech industry are employed by companies that have significant operations in both the United States and Canada. Individuals who currently hold H-1B specialty occupation visas in the United States will be able to apply for entry into Canada, as well as the entry of their immediate family. 

The selected applicants will receive an open work permit that allows them to work for any employer in Canada for a maximum of three years. In addition, dependents and spouses are eligible to apply for a work or study permit in addition to a temporary resident visa. The purpose of this program is to make it easier for qualified workers in the IT sector to find employment in Canada.