Work While You Study in Canada

Working and Studying

Temporary residents in Canada may need to get a work permit to work in Canada while they study. Students have a few options for working while they study.

Working on Campus

Anyone who has a valid study permit who attends a public or private college or university in Canada can work on campus as long as they remain full-time.

Private universities need to operate on the same rules as public institutions for this to be valid.

If you no longer meet the requirements listed above, it is important to stop working immediately.

Working Off-Campus

You may be able to work off-campus without a work permit if you meet the following requirements:

• You will work 20 hours or less a week unless it is during academic break, when you can work full time.
• You need to have a valid study permit and be a full time student
• You need to be enrolled in a designated learning institution
• You need to be in a program of more than six months in duration that awards a degree.
• You will need a Social Insurance Number in order to work in Canada while you study.

Work as an Intern

Co-op students or interns need to get a work permit in order to work in Canada. Requirements include:

To be eligible for a work permit you will need to

• Have a valid study permit
• Intend to get an internship that is an essential part of your studies in Canada
• Have a letter from an academic official at your school saying that your internship is essential to your studies
• Show that your employment will not make up more than 50% of your total program of study.

The form used to apply for a work permit with a study permit is Form IMM 5710, Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker.