Canada is a popular overseas study destination for students. Besides its world-class institutions, stunning natural beauty, and high standards of living, Canada is also famous for its student-friendly visa policies.
Many international students studying in Canada choose to work during their stay in the country. The students pursuing their degrees in Canada have several employment options, including on-campus/off-campus work, and internships. Most overseas students in Canada can work up to 20 hours per week and full-time during their scheduled break without requiring a work permit.
The opportunity to work while studying is one of the most significant advantages of choosing Canada as your study location, but there are a few things you should be aware of before you start earning. Canada migration agents assist in understanding the student visa requirements for working while studying.
Work on Campus
You can work in Canada as an international student if your study visa includes a provision allowing you to work on or off campus. You are eligible to work on your school’s campus without a work permit if you:
- Are enrolled full-time in a public post-secondary institution such as a college, university, trade, or technical school
- Have a valid study permit as well as a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Were a full-time student in every semester of your programme who is now studying part-time in your final semester to complete the necessary coursework
An on-campus employer might be the school, yourself (in case you own a company that is physically located on campus), a faculty member or a member of a student group, or a private contractor who offers on-campus services.
Work off Campus
Before you begin working, you and your employer must ensure that you may work off campus without a work permit. If you begin working off campus, but fail to satisfy educational requirements, you may be required to leave Canada. You can only begin working in Canada once your academic programme has begun.
If you are eligible for working off campus while studying, it will be stated in the requirements of your study permit. Those who are eligible do not require a work permit. To be eligible:
- You must be enrolled in a designated learning institution (DLI) as a full-time student. This includes postsecondary academic, vocational, or professional training programmes or secondary-level vocational training programmes (Quebec only).
- Your study programme should last at least 6 months and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- You should have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- You are in your last semester and are now studying part-time to complete the necessary coursework
You have the option of working up to 20 hours each week for off-campus employment. You can work more than one job to make up these hours while adhering to the visa guidelines. If you’re on a scheduled break (the winter and summer holidays, or a fall or spring break) you can work full-time. Learn more about off-campus work rights from the best immigration consultants for Canada.
Co-op Work and Internships
Work experience is required as part of the curriculum in several academic programmes. If you satisfy all of the following requirements, you can apply for a co-op or intern work permit:
- You have a study permit.
- In order to complete your educational programme in Canada, you are required to work in the country.
- You have a document from your institution confirming that all students in your programme must complete work placements to graduate.
- Your co-op or internship should account for 50% or less of your overall academic time.
Work Opportunities for Partners
Spouses and common-law partners of international students in Canada are also eligible for an open work permit that allows them to enjoy the benefit of working in the country. The work permit of spouses and common-law partners are valid till the end of your study permit. Your Canada immigration consultants will assist you with the necessary documentation and permits.
Find the Right Opportunities
Once you know your opportunities as a student, the next step is to find the right job. Advertisements for part-time job opportunities may be found on several websites. Your province may have its own employment portals, such as those for leisure centres, libraries, or administration. Canada is known for its warm and friendly locals who welcome international students with open arms. With proper research and planning, it won’t be too difficult for you to find your ideal job.
Options to Explore after Completing Your Degree
You may need to quit working in Canada as soon as you finish your education. However, there are numerous options for continuing to work.
- If you want to stay and work in Canada, you may be able to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work for any company in Canada for up to three years after you graduate.
If you are beginning a new study programme after completing the previous one, you can work between the programmes
