Canadian student work permits
Many international students want to work in Canada while studying, and they can apply for many types of work permits. Find out more in this blog and determine which Permit is the right one for you!
The 5 Types Of Work Permits You Can Apply For As An International Student
As an international student in Canada, you may be eligible to work on or off campus without a work permit. Also, you can participate in the International Experience Canada program or work as an intern or co-op student.
There are five types of work permits you can apply for as an international student:
1. On-campus work permit:
You can work on campus without a work permit if you are a full-time student at a designated learning institution and have a valid study permit. This includes working as a teaching or research assistant or at the school's library, cafeteria, or bookstore. Check with your school's international office to see if they offer on-campus employment for international students.
2. Off-campus work permit:
You can apply for an off-campus work permit if you are a full-time student at a designated learning institution and have been studying in Canada for six months or more. With this work permit, you can work up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full-time during scheduled breaks (such as winter and summer holidays). To apply for an off-campus work permit, you must apply for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
3. Co-op/internship work permit:
If your program of study includes mandatory co-op or internship placements, you must apply for a co-op/internship work permit before beginning your placement. This type of work permit is valid for the duration of your placement, up to four years. You must have a valid study permit to apply for a co-op/internship work permit.
4. Post-graduation work permit:
If you have graduated from a designated learning institution, you may be eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). This work permit allows you to work in any occupation for up to three years after your studies. To be eligible, you must have studied full-time in Canada and held a valid study permit throughout your program of study.
5. International Experience Canada:
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program allows young people from participating countries to come to Canada and work temporarily. There are three categories under IEC: working holiday, young professionals, and international co-op internship programs. To participate in IEC, you must first meet the eligibility requirements of your chosen category and then receive an invitation to apply.
Working On-Campus
As an international student in Canada, you have the option to work on or off campus. Working on campus is a great way to gain experience in your field, meet new people, and make some extra money. There are a few things to keep in mind when applying for a job on campus:
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You must have a valid study permit
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You can only work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks
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Working on campus does not require a separate work permit.
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You may be required to provide your Social Insurance Number (SIN) to your employer.
If you are planning to work from home, then you must apply for an employment permit. The requirements for a work permit vary depending on your country of citizenship and how long you plan on staying in Canada. More information can be found on the website of Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
Working Off-Campus
There are a few different types of work permits you can apply for as an international student. The most common is the Off-Campus Work Permit, which allows you to work up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full-time during breaks. You can also apply for a Co-Op Work Permit, which allows you to work full-time in your field of study while completing your studies. Finally, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, which allows you to work in your field of study for up to three years after graduation.
To be eligible for an Off-Campus Work Permit, you must need:
You must be a full-time student in an approved educational institution.
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Have a valid study permit
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Maintain good academic standing
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Take part in on-campus employment for at least six months before applying (if possible)
To be eligible for a Work Permit Co-Op, You must meet the following requirements.
You must be taking part in a full-time postsecondary education program that requires work placements as a part of the course OR is taking part in a graduate program and has completed at minimum 50% of your studies in Canada and satisfy all other eligibility requirements for the off-campus work Permit Program.
A Work Permit Application: What You Need to Know?
If you want to work while you study in Canada, you will need a work permit. You can apply for a work permit as soon as you receive your study Permit.
To apply for a work permit, you will need the following:
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A valid passport or travel document
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Your Study Permit
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The Letter of Introduction that was sent to you when you received your Study Permit
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Proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada (such as bank statements or a letter from the person who is financially responsible for you)
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Two passport photos
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The application fee (CAD 155)
The process of obtaining a work permit can be completed online or on paper. If you apply online, make sure to have a credit card and access to a printer so that you can print out your confirmation page and any other documents that are required. If you are applying on paper, send your application to the address provided in the instructions.
CONSEQUENCES OF NOT HAVING A WORK PERMIT
A few consequences come with not having a work permit as an international student. For one, you may not be able to find a job as easily without one. Most employers want to see that you have a valid work permit before hiring you. Additionally, you could be deported back to your home country if caught working without a permit. This is why it's important to ensure that you have the proper documentation before seeking employment in Canada.
