Studying in Canada is a dream for many international students — and it’s easy to see why. With top-ranked institutions, multicultural cities, and a welcoming atmosphere, Canada offers not only quality education but also opportunities to gain work experience while studying.
If you’re planning to study in Canada or are already enrolled, one of the most common questions you might have is:
Can I work while studying on a Canada student visa?
The short answer is yes — but there are specific rules, limits, and requirements you need to know. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything about working in Canada as an international student.
1. Understanding the Canadian Study Permit
Before diving into work opportunities, let’s clarify what the Canadian Study Permit allows:
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The permit gives you legal permission to study in Canada at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
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It often includes a condition that allows you to work part-time during academic sessions and full-time during breaks — but only under certain conditions.
Important: A study permit is not a work permit — but it can come with work authorization.
2. Working On-Campus vs. Off-Campus
Working On-Campus
As a full-time student with a valid study permit, you’re allowed to work on-campus without a separate work permit.
You can work on-campus if:
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You’re enrolled full-time at a DLI
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Your study permit includes a condition stating you can work
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You have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
You can work for:
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Your school
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A faculty member
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A private business on the campus premises
There’s no limit to the number of hours you can work on-campus, but you must maintain your full-time student status.
Working Off-Campus
You can also work off-campus without a work permit if:
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You’re enrolled in a full-time post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional program
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Your program is at least 6 months long
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You have started your studies
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Your study permit clearly states that you’re allowed to work
Allowed work limits:
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Up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions
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Full-time during scheduled breaks, such as winter and summer holidays
As of November 15, 2022 to April 30, 2024, Canada temporarily lifted the 20-hour cap, allowing eligible students to work more than 20 hours per week off-campus. (Check IRCC updates for current policies.)
3. Getting a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
To work legally in Canada, you’ll need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) — even for part-time or on-campus jobs.
You can apply for a SIN online or at a Service Canada center with:
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Your study permit (must state you’re eligible to work)
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A valid passport
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Proof of enrollment, if needed
Once you have a SIN, you’re good to go!
4. Types of Jobs You Can Do as a Student
Depending on your schedule and preferences, here are some common jobs for international students in Canada:
On-Campus:
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Library assistant
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Research or teaching assistant
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Campus café or bookstore staff
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IT support
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Peer mentor or student ambassador
Off-Campus:
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Barista or café worker
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Retail associate
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Food delivery or UberEats
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Call center agent
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Freelance writer/designer (check rules for self-employment)
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Customer service rep
Choose jobs that don’t interfere with your studies. Prioritize your class schedule and academic success.
5. Work-Integrated Learning (Co-Op or Internship)
Some programs in Canada include co-op terms or internships as part of the curriculum. In such cases, you’ll need to apply for a co-op work permit in addition to your study permit.
To be eligible:
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The co-op or internship must be essential to your program
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It must represent less than 50% of your total program
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You must have a valid study permit
Ask your institution’s international student office for help with the process.
6. Can You Be Self-Employed While Studying?
Generally, international students can work as independent contractors or freelancers, but this is a bit of a grey area. You must:
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Have a valid SIN
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Follow the same rules (20 hours/week during school, full-time during breaks)
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Pay taxes and keep records
It’s best to consult an immigration advisor before starting a freelance gig to ensure compliance.
7. Post-Graduation Work Opportunities
Once you complete your studies, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — which allows you to work full-time in Canada for up to 3 years, depending on your program length.
This permit is a great stepping stone toward permanent residency if you plan to stay in Canada long-term.
8. Tips for Balancing Work and Study
While working part-time offers financial and practical benefits, it’s important to strike the right balance. Here are some tips:
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Plan your schedule around your classes
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Prioritize jobs with flexible hours
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Avoid late-night shifts before exams
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Set boundaries to prevent burnout
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Use campus resources (career centers, student support)
Your main goal is to graduate successfully — work is a bonus, not the priority.