A Canadian Study Permit allows the international student to work during term time and during regular breaks for a Canadian employer. This may help make contacts for when or if the student looks to seek permanent residence in Canada.

Off-Campus Work

To be eligible for off-campus work, which can be undertaken up to 20 hours a week during term times and full time during regular breaks, the student must meet the following requirements:

  • Hold a study permit and be enrolled and studying full time at a recognized Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
  • Undertake a study program of at least 6 months leading to a certificate, diploma or degree.
  • Have a social insurance number (SIN).

Students who are no longer studying full time but were registered as such at the start of their study period or are in a final semester where the full-time study is no longer required may also be eligible for off-campus work.
Students are not eligible for off-campus work if they are studying either English or French as a second language, if they are taking a general interest course, or if they are exchange or visiting students.

On-Campus Work

International students may be able to undertake work within their campus if they meet the following requirements:

  • Hold a study permit and be enrolled and studying full time at a recognized Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
  • Undertake a study program of at least 6 months leading to a certificate, diploma or degree.
  • Have a social insurance number (SIN).

This includes work for the school, for faculty members or student organizations, for private businesses within the campus or providing services to the school, as well as being self-employed.
If international students are required to take part in work placements or internships as part of the study program they need to apply for a co-op or intern work permit. Once graduated, they can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) which allows them to work for a Canadian employer for the equivalent duration of their study time. During this time, many international students choose to apply for permanent residence via the federal application routes or one of the many provincial nominee programs (PNPs).