Work during your studies

You can only start working in Canada when you start your study program. You can’t work before your studies begin.

Whether you choose to work on or off-campus, make sure you understand the requirements.

Work on-campus

Am I eligible?

You may work on-campus at the institution you are attending without a work permit if:

• you are a full-time student at an eligible post-secondary institution;
• you have a valid study permit or maintained status;
• you have printed conditions on your initial study permit allowing you to work on campus; and,
• you have a social insurance number (SIN).

For more information about working on-campus, refer to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.

Work off-campus

You and your employer must make sure you can work off campus without a work permit before you start working. If you start working off campus but don’t meet the requirements, you may have to leave Canada.

You may work off campus without a work permit if you meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada eligibility requirements. 

For more information on working off-campus, refer to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.

Changes to off-campus work hours

As of November 8, 2024, students are allowed to work off campus up to 24 hours per week without a work permit. Make sure you meet the other requirements for working while you study.

Work as a co-op student or intern

Some programs include work experience as part of the curriculum. You must apply for a work permit to participate in co-op or internship programs.

For more information about working as a co-op or intern, refer to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.