Can International Students Study and Work in Canada?

Did you know that nearly half of all international students in Canada work while studying? Working in Canada can help you get practical work experience and build your network. It may even help you stay and work in Canada after your studies.

Work while you study, help your spouse or common-law partner get a work permit, or work temporarily or stay permanently in Canada after you graduate as an international student.

To work while studying, students must meet specific eligibility criteria, including holding a valid study permit and being enrolled in a designated learning institution.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about working while studying in Canada.

Pro Tip: Wages or salaries for work in Canada depend on the employer and the skills required for your position. The minimum wage varies by province and territory and ranges from $14-$16 per hour.

Requirements & Eligibility for Working as a Student in Canada

To work in Canada as an international student, you must meet certain requirements. These include having valid study permits in Canada and being enrolled in an eligible study program. According to latest reports, around 364,000 international students will get study permits in the year 2024. Here are the detailed eligibility criteria:

• Full-time Student: You must be enrolled full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI).
• Program Enrollment:
• Post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program
• Secondary-level vocational training program (Quebec only)
• Program Requirements:
• At least 6 months long
• Leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate
• Study Start: You must have already started your studies.
• Social Insurance Number (SIN): You need a SIN to work in Canada.

Special Note for Part-time Students:

• You can work off-campus if:
• It’s your last semester, and you don’t need a full course load to complete your program.
• You were a full-time student in Canada up until your last semester.

Quick Read: Cost of Living in Canada for International Students

How to Get a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to Work in Canada?

A SIN is a 9-digit number issued by the Government of Canada, required to work in Canada.

To apply for a SIN to work off-campus, your study permit must state one of the following conditions:

• You may work 20 hours per week off-campus or full-time during regular breaks.
• You may accept employment on or off-campus if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Types of work International Students can Undertake While Studying in Canada

Working while studying in Canada offers international students various employment opportunities. With study permits in Canada, they can explore on-campus and off-campus work options.

To apply for a PGWP, confirm your program completion with a degree, diploma, transcript, or official letter. Apply within 180 days after graduation.

On-campus

Getting a high-paying part-time job appears to be the best option for most foreign college students to afford their tuition, rent, and other expenses. The intriguing aspect is that Canada allows eligible students to work part-time while studying without a work permit. Being a working student in Canada offers extra perks as well. For example, some companies in Canada provide employment perks to part-time employees. Tuition reimbursement, flexible schedules, health, and dental care, discounted stocks, and employee discounts are examples of such advantages.

Filipino students can work on-campus at their designated learning institution. This includes jobs like library assistants, research assistants, or working at the campus bookstore.

• Library Assistants: Help with organising books and assisting students.
• Research Assistants: Support professors with research projects.
• Administrative Staff: Work in university offices, handling paper work and student inquiries.
• Campus Bookstore Staff: Manage sales and inventory in the campus bookstore.
• Cafeteria Workers: Serve food and manage the dining area.

These roles provide valuable experience and convenient on-campus work in Canada

Off-campus

Filipino students can engage in off-campus work in Canada under specific regulations. With a valid study permit, students can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks. Here are some common off-campus job options:

Here are some common off-campus job options:

• Retail Assistants: Work in stores, assisting customers and managing inventory.
• Hospitality Staff: Serve in restaurants or hotels, providing customer service.
• Internships: Gain practical experience related to your field of study.
• Freelancing: Offer skills like graphic design or tutoring.

Quick Read: Best Courses in Canada for International Students

Co-op Programs

A co-op programme integrates work experience into your study program, allowing you to work on or off-campus. For example, an environmental studies co-op degree lets you work 3-4 months annually in your field, providing hands-on professional experience in Canada. Here's a quick guide to applying for a co-op work permit in Canada:

Eligibility:

You can apply for a co-op work permit if:

• You have a valid study permit.
• Your study program in Canada requires work experience for completion.
• You have a letter from your school confirming that work placements are mandatory for all students in your program.
• Your co-op placement or internship constitutes 50% or less of your total study program.

Pro Tip: If you're ineligible for a co-op work permit but wish to work in Canada, apply for a regular work permit.

Internships

Internships in Canada for international students provide valuable industry experience, enhancing skills and career prospects.

Sectors Offering Internships:

• Engineering: Practical experience in various engineering fields.
• Business: Roles in marketing, finance, and management.
• Information Technology: Positions in software development and network management.
• Healthcare: Internships in hospitals, clinics, and research.
• Environmental Studies: Work in sustainability and conservation projects.
• These internships offer hands-on learning and professional growth opportunities.

Understanding the opportunities and requirements for working while studying in Canada is crucial for international students. Check your eligibility, understand your rights, and make the most of your time in Canada.

Need personalised guidance? Contact AECC Global, your trusted abroad consultant, for expert advice and support on studying and working in Canada.