Canada is one of the most sought-after destinations for international students due to its world-class education, multicultural society, and work opportunities. One of the most common questions students ask before or after arriving is: What jobs are allowed for students on a Canadian visa? In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about working in Canada as a student — the types of jobs, work conditions, eligibility rules, and tips to balance study and work.
Understanding the Student Visa (Study Permit)
Before diving into job options, it’s important to understand the basics of the Canadian Study Permit. This permit allows international students to live and study in Canada at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). In many cases, the study permit also comes with authorization to work, either on-campus, off-campus, or through co-op/internship programs, provided certain conditions are met.
General Work Eligibility for Students
To work while studying in Canada, international students must:
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Hold a valid study permit.
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Be enrolled full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI).
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Be studying in a program that leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
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Be enrolled in a post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program.
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Start work only after their study program begins.
If these conditions are met, students can work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks (like winter or summer holidays).
Types of Jobs Allowed for Students on a Canadian Visa
1. On-Campus Jobs
On-campus jobs are often the most accessible option for students, especially in the first year.
Examples:
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Library assistant
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Research assistant
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Peer tutor
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IT helpdesk support
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Campus tour guide
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Student ambassador
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Cafeteria staff
On-campus jobs do not require a separate work permit and are usually convenient because they’re close to your academic schedule.
2. Off-Campus Jobs
Students can work off-campus up to 20 hours/week during semesters and full-time during breaks.
Popular sectors:
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Retail: Cashier, sales associate, stock handler
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Food services: Barista, server, kitchen assistant
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Customer service: Call center agent, receptionist
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Tutoring: If you have expertise in a subject, tutoring fellow students can be lucrative
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Delivery services: Food delivery (Uber Eats, DoorDash)
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Warehouse or factory work: For students looking for physical jobs with flexible hours
These jobs are open to most students but remember: your primary purpose in Canada must remain education.
3. Co-op or Internship Programs
Some academic programs include mandatory co-op or internship components. To participate in these, students must apply for a co-op work permit, in addition to their study permit.
Requirements:
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The internship must be an essential part of your academic curriculum.
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Your school must provide a letter confirming this.
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The co-op placement cannot form more than 50% of your total study program.
Industries for co-op placements:
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Business and finance
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Information technology
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Engineering
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Marketing and communications
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Social work and public health
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Scientific research
4. Freelancing or Self-Employment
Freelancing is a gray area for international students. Technically, you are allowed to be self-employed only if you meet the same conditions as off-campus work and:
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You do not work more than 20 hours per week during study periods.
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You report your income and pay taxes.
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Your freelancing does not interfere with your academic progress.
Examples of freelance work:
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Graphic design
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Photography
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Social media management
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Writing/blogging
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Online tutoring
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Web development
Note: Immigration authorities may view self-employment differently. Always consult with your school’s international office or an immigration expert.
Jobs Not Allowed for Students
There are a few restrictions regarding the kind of work students can do:
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Jobs that require a high level of medical responsibility (e.g., doctors, nurses) unless the student has passed a medical exam and has proper authorization.
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Jobs involving sexual services, such as escort services, massage parlors, or strip clubs, are strictly prohibited for international students.
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Students cannot work before their program starts or after it ends unless they apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Where to Find Student Jobs in Canada
Finding a job might seem challenging at first, but plenty of resources are available:
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University or college career centers
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On-campus job boards
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Websites like:
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Indeed Canada
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Job Bank Canada
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Workopolis
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SimplyHired
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Networking events, workshops, and job fairs
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LinkedIn
You can also walk into local stores and restaurants with your resume and ask if they are hiring.
Tips for Working as a Student in Canada
1. Time Management is Crucial
Balancing studies and work can be challenging. Prioritize your academic responsibilities and ensure you never exceed the legal working hours.
2. Know Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with your rights as a worker in Canada. Employers must pay you at least the minimum wage and provide a safe working environment.
3. File Your Taxes
Even as a part-time or freelance worker, you are required to file taxes. This can also make you eligible for certain benefits like the GST/HST credit.
4. Use Campus Resources
Your college or university likely has career advisors, resume-building workshops, and interview coaching. Take advantage of these free services.
5. Work Experience Matters
Don’t dismiss any job. Even if it’s a basic retail position, Canadian work experience strengthens your resume and can help you qualify for permanent residency in the future.
Can Working as a Student Help You Stay in Canada?
Yes! Gaining Canadian work experience during your studies can help you qualify for programs like:
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Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
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Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry
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Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Make sure your job and program meet IRCC criteria to take advantage of these immigration pathways.
Final Thoughts
Canada offers a wide range of job opportunities for students, allowing them to gain valuable work experience, support themselves financially, and enhance their resumes. Whether you choose an on-campus job, a retail position, or a co-op internship, working in Canada as a student is possible — as long as you follow the rules.
If you plan your time wisely, know your legal limits, and take advantage of school resources, working as a student in Canada can be an incredibly rewarding experience — academically, professionally, and personally.