Studying in Canada offers international students not only a world-class education but also opportunities to gain valuable work experience. Depending on your study permit conditions, you may be eligible to work both on and off campus—often without needing a separate work permit.
If eligible, you can work unlimited hours on campus and up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic sessions. During scheduled breaks, such as summer or winter holidays, you may work full-time off campus. All work authorization is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and must be listed on your study permit.
⚠️ It’s important to respect these rules—violating your study permit conditions could lead to losing your student status, refusal of future permits, or even removal from Canada.
Before you begin any employment, you must have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) and wait until your classes officially start.
Types of Work Opportunities
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On-Campus: Jobs within your university or college, such as libraries, cafeterias, student centers, or faculty departments. You can also run your own business if it’s based on campus. There is no limit to the number of hours you can work on campus.
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Off-Campus: Work with local employers outside the campus, such as shops, restaurants, or tutoring. Students may work up to 24 hours per week during semesters and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (up to 180 days per year).
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Remote Work (Outside Canada): You may work remotely for an employer located outside Canada, with no hour restrictions, as long as the employer has no operations, clients, or financial ties to Canada.
Eligibility to Work
You may work on or off campus if:
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You are a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI).
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Your study program is at least six months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
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You have a valid study permit with work authorization conditions.
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You have already started your program.
👉 If you are in your final semester and only need part-time studies to complete your program, you may still qualify to work.
Internships and Co-Op Placements
If your program requires a co-op placement or internship, you must apply for a co-op work permit in addition to your study permit. This requires:
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A valid study permit.
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A letter from your DLI confirming that the work placement is mandatory.
Note: If your co-op makes up more than 50% of your program, or you’re enrolled in ESL/FSL or general interest courses, you will not qualify under this route.
Authorized Leave from Studies
International students may take an authorized leave of up to 150 days, with approval from their school, for reasons such as health, pregnancy, family emergencies, or institutional strikes. During this period, you are not allowed to work on or off campus.
✅ Key Takeaways:
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Unlimited on-campus work.
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24 hours/week off-campus (unlimited during scheduled breaks).
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Remote work for foreign employers allowed without restrictions.
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Follow all IRCC rules to avoid losing your status.
