Work as a Student

Work as an international student

Although you are required to show in your application for a Canadian study permit that you have sufficient funds to cover your studies and living expenses without working, in reality, many international students choose to work part-time to earn extra income and gain work experience.

As an international student in Canada with a valid study permit, you can usually work on campus without a separate work permit if you meet certain eligibility requirements.

Eligibility requirements

To work on campus, you must be a full-time post-secondary student at one of the following:

• A public post-secondary institution (college, university, trade or technical school, or a CEGEP in Quebec)
• A private post-secondary school in Quebec that follows the same rules as public institutions
• A public or private secondary or post-secondary institution in Quebec offering qualifying programs of 900 hours or more leading to a Diploma of Vocational Studies (DVS) or an Attestation of Vocational Specialization (AVS)
• A Canadian private institution that is legally authorized under provincial law to grant degrees (for example, associate, bachelor's, master's or doctoral degrees), and you are enrolled in a degree program authorized by the province.

Additionally, you would need to have a valid study permit (or maintained status) which includes printed conditions that allow you to work on campus and you have received a Social Insurance Number (SIN).

Not all programs at private institutions automatically qualify, so it is important to check whether your specific program meets the work eligibility rules.

Work hours

If you meet these conditions, you may be allowed to:

• Work up to 24 hours per week during regular academic sessions
• Work full-time during scheduled breaks (for example, winter holidays, summer break, or spring reading week)

Types of on-campus employers

Your on-campus employer can be:

• The institution itself
• A student organization
• A private business located on campus (such as a cafeteria, medical clinic, or print shop)

You may also work as a graduate assistant, teaching assistant, or research assistant on campus under these rules.

Important considerations

It is important to be aware of your study permit conditions and what type of work is allowed and how it may affect your future immigration options (such as a Post-Graduation Work Permit).