Working While Studying in Canada

International students in Canada can work off campus up to 24 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. No separate work permit is needed if your study permit authorizes work. You may also qualify for co-op or internship programs.

During Term

Up to 24 hrs/wk

During Breaks

Full-Time

On Campus

No Limit

Co-op/Internship

Permit Required

Off-Campus Work

Since November 2024, eligible international students can work up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic sessions. During scheduled breaks (summer, winter holidays), you can work full-time. You must be a full-time student maintaining satisfactory academic standing.

On-Campus Work

There is no hourly limit for on-campus work. You can work for the institution where you are enrolled — as a teaching assistant, research assistant, library aide, or at campus bookstores and cafeterias.

Co-op & Internship Programs

If your program includes mandatory work experience, you may need a co-op work permit. This permit is separate from your study permit and must be applied for at the same time. The work must be an essential part of your curriculum.

Key Rules to Follow

You must be a full-time student at a DLI

You must have a valid study permit that authorizes work

Do not start working before your program begins

Off-campus work is limited to 24 hrs/week during term

You can work multiple jobs as long as the total stays under the limit

You need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work in Canada

If you stop studying, you must stop working immediately

Co-op work permits are free. If your program has a mandatory co-op component, apply for the co-op work permit at the same time as your study permit to avoid delays.

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