On This Page You Will Find:
- Who can work on-campus in Canada
- Off-campus work eligibility and hours
- How to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Working as a co-op student or intern
- Work options after your study program ends
International students in Canada can gain valuable work experience while studying by working on-campus, off-campus, or through co-op and internship placements. These work opportunities can help you support yourself financially, build your resume, and improve your chances of gaining permanent residence after graduation.
This guide explains when and where you can work, how many hours you’re allowed, and what you need to do to stay within the rules.
Working On-Campus
You can work on-campus without a separate work permit if you:
- Are a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI)
- Have a valid study permit with printed conditions allowing on-campus work
- Have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
You can work for:
- Your school
- Faculty members
- Student organisations
- Yourself (if operating an on-campus business)
- Private businesses or contractors offering services to your school
Where you can work
Normally, only at your primary campus. If you’re a research or teaching assistant, you may work at affiliated locations (e.g. libraries, hospitals) related to your studies.
Students in their final semester can still work on-campus even if studying part-time.
You must stop working if:
- You’re no longer a full-time student (except in final semester)
- Your study permit expires
- You take an authorised leave or switch schools
Working Off-Campus
As of November 8, 2024, you can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus without a work permit if you:
- Have a valid study permit with printed conditions for off-campus work
- Are enrolled full-time in a post-secondary academic or vocational program (minimum 6 months)
- Have started your program
- Have a SIN
You can work full-time off-campus during scheduled school breaks (e.g. summer, winter holidays) if you were a full-time student before and will resume full-time studies after the break.
You can’t work off-campus if you:
- Are enrolled in ESL/FSL or general interest courses
- Haven’t started your program
- Are on leave or not currently studying
Self-employed students must also count their hours and comply with all work limits.
You may need to request a change to your study permit if the work conditions are missing or incorrect. This must be done before applying for a SIN.
Getting a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
A SIN is required for any paid work in Canada.
To apply for a SIN, your study permit must include one of these conditions:
- May accept employment on or off campus if meeting eligibility criteria as per R186(f), (v) or (w). Must cease working if no longer meeting these criteria.
- May work 24 hours per week off campus or full-time during regular breaks if meeting criteria under R186(v).
If these are not printed on your permit, you can request an amendment at no cost.
You can apply for a SIN:
- Online
- In person at a Service Canada Centre
- By mail (may take longer)
Work as a Co-op Student or Intern
If your study program includes mandatory work experience, you can apply for a co-op work permit.
To qualify, you must:
- Have a valid study permit
- Be enrolled in a program where work placement is required
- Have a letter from your school confirming the requirement
- Ensure your placement is no more than 50% of your total study program
You are not eligible if you’re in:
- ESL/FSL programs
- General interest courses
- Preparatory courses for another study program
If ineligible, you’ll need a separate work permit to work in Canada.
Working After Graduation
You may be able to work full-time after your program ends if:
- You apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) before your study permit expires
- Or, you’re starting a new program within 150 days
To qualify, you must:
- Have completed your current program
- Have a letter of acceptance to a new full-time program
- Be eligible to work off-campus during your previous studies
Note: As of June 21, 2024, you cannot apply for a PGWP at the border. You must apply online from within Canada.
You can also work remotely for an employer located outside Canada. This does not count toward your 24-hour off-campus work limit.
FAQ
Can international students work full-time in Canada while studying?
No, you can work up to 24 hours per week off campus during the school term, and unlimited hours on-campus. Full-time work is only allowed during scheduled breaks.
Do I need a work permit to work on-campus as a student?
No, as long as your study permit lists the proper conditions and you meet the eligibility criteria, you can work on-campus without a separate work permit.
How do I get a Social Insurance Number (SIN) as a student?
You must have a valid study permit with the correct work conditions printed on it. You can apply online, by mail, or in person at a Service Canada office.
What is a co-op work permit, and do I need one?
A co-op work permit is needed if your program requires work experience. You must apply separately and submit a letter from your school confirming the work placement.
Can I work in Canada after my study program ends?
Yes, if you apply for a post-graduation work permit or another study permit before your current permit expires. You can then work full-time while awaiting a decision.
