Table of Contents
Introduction
Visiting the UK, US, Canada, or other countries on a tourist or visitor visa and then deciding to work there is a common scenario. But can you legally switch from a visitor visa to a work visa? The short answer: It depends on the country—and the process must be done by the book to avoid immigration trouble.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to legally transition from a visitor visa to a work visa, what the limitations are, and the right steps to follow in 2025.
Key Facts to Know First
- Most countries do not allow in-country switching from a visitor visa to a work visa.
- Leaving the country and applying from your home country is often required.
- The process must be initiated with a valid job offer from an approved employer.
- Illegal employment on a visitor visa can lead to deportation or future visa bans.
Country-by-Country Overview
United Kingdom (UK)
- You cannot switch from a Standard Visitor Visa to a Skilled Worker Visa from within the UK.
- You must leave the UK and apply for a work visa from your home country or a country where you have legal residency.
- Exception: If you’re already in the UK on a different eligible visa (like student or graduate), switching is possible.
Legal Route:
- Secure a job offer from a UK employer with a sponsorship license.
- Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Leave the UK and apply online for the Skilled Worker Visa.
- Wait for the visa approval before returning to work.
United States (US)
- Visitor visas (B1/B2) do not permit employment or in-country status changes to H-1B or other work visas.
- You must leave the US and apply for a work visa (e.g., H-1B, O-1) at a US embassy abroad.
Legal Route:
- Secure a job with a US employer.
- Employer files a petition with USCIS.
- Once approved, apply for the visa at a US consulate in your country.
Canada
- Switching from a visitor visa to a work permit is possible, but only under specific programs.
- If you apply under the Temporary Public Policy (extended until February 2025), you can apply for an employer-specific work permit from inside Canada.
Legal Route:
- Find a Canadian employer with a positive LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) or LMIA-exempt job.
- Apply online for a work permit from inside Canada.
- Wait for your biometrics request and further instructions.
Australia
- Switching from a visitor visa to a work visa is generally not allowed.
- You must leave Australia and apply from your home country.
Steps to Legally Make the Switch
Regardless of the country, here’s the general process:
- Get a Job Offer
Find an employer willing to sponsor you under a legal work visa category. - Check Sponsorship Rules
Ensure the employer has the right accreditation or sponsorship status (UK, US, Canada). - Exit and Apply
Leave the country (unless you’re in Canada under the temporary policy) and apply for the work visa legally through the correct channel. - Provide Accurate Documents
Include your passport, visitor visa details, job offer letter, and any country-specific forms. - Wait for Approval
Do not return or start working until your visa is granted and stamped.
What to Avoid
- Never work on a visitor visa.
- Don’t overstay your visitor visa validity.
- Avoid “freelance” loopholes unless they are permitted under a digital nomad visa.
Pro Tip for 2025
Some countries are launching digital nomad or freelancer visas (like the UAE, Portugal, and Spain), which allow remote work without traditional sponsorship. These can be a fast-track alternative if you’re working online.
Conclusion
Switching from a visitor to a work visa can be done legally, but not by just getting a job while you’re visiting. The correct process usually requires applying from outside the country through official immigration channels. Understanding your destination’s visa policies—and sticking to them—is key to building your career abroad legally and safely.
UK Home Office, USCIS, IRCC Canada, Australian Government Department of Home Affairs, GOV.UK
