Both immigration and worker visa in Canada allow you to stay and work in the country. But there are several differences that make both of them suitable for different scenarios. For example, if your goal is short-termed and you want to work in Canada for a limited period, a temporary work visa Canada would be the best go for you. On the other hand, if your objective is long-term with the future expectation to settle down in the country, applying for an immigration visa is the way to go.
In addition to the main difference mentioned above, there are several other features and limitations linked to both visas. So, the key aspects that make a worker’s visa differ from an immigrant’s visa are discussed below:
| Scenario | Temporary Work Visa | Immigration visa |
| Employer | Temporary worker visa Canada holders are not allowed to change their employer. They are only supposed to work at a single job with their sponsoring employer. | People with immigration visas are free to switch jobs according to their own will. Additionally, immigrants can also work on a contract basis as consultants, which brings certain tax benefits. |
| Unemployment | In case a temporary work visa Canada holder gets laid off, or the company runs out of business, they will have to leave the country within a few days. | Immigrants are free to find another job anywhere in the country. Moreover, they are also eligible to get unemployment insurance benefits. |
| Business opportunities | A temporary worker is not supposed to start his own business in the country. | An immigrant can start his own business by registering with the official authorities like the ministry of consumer relations. |
| Job for the spouse | If a worker’s spouse wishes to find work within the country, they will have to follow the formal procedure to arrange the sponsorship from an authentic Canadian employer. | An immigrant’s spouse is free to find a job in the country without needing any authorization or permits from the authorities. |
| Family sponsorship | A worker can only sponsor his spouse and dependent children. | In addition to their spouse and dependent children, immigration visa holders can also sponsor extended family members, including parents and dependent siblings. |
| Location | Holders of worker visa Canada cannot shift their residence location. | People with immigration visas do not have any restrictions regarding their location and can shift from one place to another. |
| Residency type | Workers do not have approval for permanent residency in Canada. | Immigration visa holders receive the official permanent resident status from the Government of Canada. |
| Application for citizenship | Workers have to wait for their green card and some additional period before applying for Canadian citizenship. | Permanent residents can apply for citizenship after completing 3 years of stay in the country. |
| Travel | Travelling outside the country can invite renewal risks upon returning. | PRs are free to travel wherever they want, whenever they want, as long as they fulfill their residency commitment of 2 years accumulated residency out of a total of 5 years. |
To sum it up, an immigration visa brings you several advantages over a temporary worker visa Canada. However, if your work plans are set for a limited period, it is best to go with the temporary work permit rather than spending your resources on attaining permanent residence.
