Hello,

I am an Australian who has been working in Canada for the last year with an open Work Permit.

I wish to stay in Canada for another 3-6 months after my work permit expires, not working, just holidaying.

Am I required to leave Canada and then return, entering with a visitor status, or does my status automatically change over (from worker to visitor)?

If I was to leave, do I have to be away for a certain amount of time before I return, or could I come back a week or two later?

My current plan is to travel to the UK for a short amount of time (1-2 weeks), and then return. Is this feasible? Are there any documents that I will need? I have people who can vouch for me if this would assist me.

Your time and help is greatly appreciated. I've had an extremely hard time finding information on this topic, as most of what I've found relates to 1st time visitors.

Thanks.

You may request an extension of your visitor status (i.e., without permission to work) via an application to the Case Processing Centre in Vegreville, Alberta. This application is processed inland, and does not require you to leave prior to or following its submission.

If you do leave Canada, there is no minimum duration for which you must remain outside Canada prior to returning. As an Australian citizen, you would not be required to obtain a passport visa prior to returning to the Canadian port of entry.