As an international student in Canada, you have opportunities to gain work experience during your studies, which can help you with your career and finances. Here’s an overview of how you can work while studying and what to keep in mind:
Off-Campus Work #
Eligibility Requirements: To work off-campus, you must:
- Hold a valid study permit.
- Be studying full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI).
- Be in satisfactory academic standing as determined by your institution.
- Be enrolled in a program that is at least six months in duration and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- Have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
Work Hours:
- You can work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions.
- Full-time work is allowed during scheduled breaks (e.g., winter and summer holidays).
Temporary Measure (Effective Nov 15, 2022 – Dec 31, 2023):
- Eligible international students can work more than 20 hours per week while classes are in session to help alleviate Canada’s labor shortages.
Special Considerations:
- If you are studying part-time in your final semester and were previously a full-time student, you may continue working off-campus under certain conditions.
Ineligible Students:
- Students enrolled in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) programs.
- Students taking general interest courses or programs.
- Visiting or exchange students.
On-Campus Work #
Eligibility Requirements: To work on-campus without a work permit, you must:
- Hold a valid study permit.
- Have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
- Be registered as a full-time student at:
- A public post-secondary institution (college, university, CEGEP in Quebec).
- A private college-level school in Quebec that operates like a public school and is at least 50% government-funded.
- A Canadian private school that can award degrees under provincial law.
Types of On-Campus Work:
- Work for the school, a faculty member, or a student organization.
- Employment by a private business located on campus.
- Work for a private contractor providing services to the school.
- Self-employment on campus.
Co-op and Internship Work #
If your study program requires a co-op or internship:
- You must apply for a co-op or intern work permit in addition to your study permit.
Post-Graduation Work Permits #
Eligibility:
- After graduation, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work full-time in Canada.
Spousal Work Permits:
- Spouses or common-law partners of full-time international students may be eligible for an open work permit.
By understanding these guidelines and preparing your applications accordingly, you can make the most of your time in Canada and gain valuable work experience while studying. If you need further assistance, consulting with an immigration professional may be beneficial.
