IRCC has updated visa guidelines for digital nomads
Canada is adapting legislation to attract remote workers from around the world.
In the summer of 2023, Canada announced its intention to develop a special visa policy for digital nomads. These are people who conduct their labor activities online from anywhere in the world. Separate visas for digital nomads were never invented, but on January 30, 2024, the migration legislation was amended to clarify the status and rights of such visitors.
According to the current migration rules of Canada, a digital nomad, in order to come to the country for a period of up to 6 months, it is enough to obtain the status of a tourist, i.e. to obtain a visitor visa or a temporary residence permit. During this period, it is possible to legally work remotely for a foreign employer.
A digital nomad does not need any additional documents to enter Canada. However, he or she must still convince the migration officer that he or she will leave the country at the end of his or her authorized stay.
Work permit
When the temporary residence permit expires, the visa must be renewed or its legal status must be changed.
The government assumes that some of the digital nomads, once in Canada, will want to explore employment prospects with local employers. If they receive an offer from a Canadian firm, they are required to apply for a work permit and consider permanent residency.
Family members of digital nomads who plan to work or study in Canada are also required to apply for the appropriate work or study permits.
