Canada is one of the most sought-after destinations for international students, thanks to its high-quality education system, diverse culture, and welcoming environment. However, many students are concerned about their finances and whether they can work while studying in Canada. The good news is that international students are permitted to work in Canada while they study, which can help them cover some of their living expenses and gain valuable work experience. Here, we will explore the rules and regulations surrounding international student work in Canada.
Types of work permits for international students
International students in Canada have two options when it comes to working: on-campus and off-campus. Both types of work permits have specific rules and regulations that students must follow to be eligible.
On-campus work permit:
As the name suggests, an on-campus work permit allows international students to work on the campus of the institution where they are enrolled. To be eligible for an on-campus work permit, students must have a valid study permit and be enrolled in a full-time program at a designated learning institution (DLI). Students can work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as winter and summer holidays.
Off-campus work permit:
An off-campus work permit allows international students to work off-campus while they study. To be eligible for an off-campus work permit, students must have a valid study permit and be enrolled in a full-time program at a DLI for at least six months. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
Co-op work permit:
A Co-op work permit is a type of work permit issued by the Canadian government to international students who are enrolled in a program that requires work experience as part of their curriculum. The co-op work permit allows students to gain practical work experience in their field of study, which can enhance their employability and help them transition into their careers after graduation. To be eligible for a co-op work permit, students must have a valid study permit and be enrolled in a co-op or internship program at a DLI.
Post-graduation work permit:
After graduating from a DLI, international students can apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). A PGWP allows students to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of their study program. To be eligible for a PGWP, students must have completed a program at a DLI that is at least eight months long and have a valid study permit.
Rules and regulations for international student work
International students in Canada must follow specific rules and regulations when it comes to working. Failure to comply with these rules can result in the student being removed from Canada and prevented from returning.
Some of the rules and regulations for international student work include:
- Students must have a valid study permit and be enrolled in a full-time program at a DLI to be eligible for work permits.
- Students can only work for the employer and at the location specified on their work permit.
- Students cannot work for an employer who has been deemed ineligible by the Government of Canada.
- Students must stop working on the day their study permit expires, unless they have applied for and received an extension.
- Students must not work more than the maximum number of hours allowed under their work permit.
Benefits of working while studying in Canada
Working while studying in Canada can provide international students with many benefits. Some of these benefits include:
- Earning income to help cover living expenses, such as rent, food, and transportation.
- Gaining valuable work experience that can be added to a resume and improve job prospects after graduation.
- Networking with potential employers and building professional connections.
- Improving language skills and gaining a better understanding of Canadian culture.
Conclusion
International students in Canada can work while they study, thanks to the various work permits available to them, including on-campus work permits, off-campus work permits, co-op work permits, and post-graduation work permits. These work permits have specific rules and regulations that students must follow to be eligible, including having a valid study permit and being enrolled in a full-time program at a designated learning institution.
