Working while studying in Canada (work and study in Canada) is one of the major advantages of selecting Canada as your study destination. But there are a few things you should know before you can begin earning.

There are lots of work and study opportunities in Canada for international students. If you have been wondering how possible it is. Tontimes is here to guide you on how to work and study in Canada as an international student in Canada.
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Work while you study, assist your spouse or common-law partner in obtaining a work permit while you study, and work temporarily or permanently in Canada after you graduate as an international student.
Foreign/international students studying in Canada may work on or off campus as long as they have a valid study permit.
How To Work and Study in Canada
- In order for an international student to be qualified to work while studying, they must:
- You must have a valid Canadian study permit.
- Maintain an acceptable academic standing as determined by their institution
- Be enrolled in a six-month academic, vocational, or professional training program that leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- Be enrolled in a postsecondary designated learning institution or, in Quebec, a secondary vocational program.
Therefore, if the student does not meet the requirements in Canada, they must stop working on that day. However, such a student can otherwise be authorized to continue working by applying for a work permit in Canada.
So, if you found yourself in such a condition, don’t panic. Simply apply for a Canadian work permit. Once such an application is granted, you will resume your work. work and study in Canada program!

Who is eligible to work off-campus in Canada?
You may work off-campus without a work permit if you meet the following criteria:
- have a valid study permit in Canada
- Are enrolled in full-time studies at a designated learning institution in Canada (DLI)
- have begun their studies in Canada
- are enrolled in a program that lasts at least six months and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate
- have a Social Security Number (SIN).
If you are no longer a full-time student, you can still work off-campus, if you meet the following criteria:
- You’ve been a full-time student since the beginning of your program in Canada, and
- You’re now only studying part-time because this is your final semester (and you don’t need a full course load to finish your program).
Before you begin working, you and your employer must confirm that you are eligible to work off-campus without a work permit. If you begin working off-campus but fail to meet the requirements, you may be required to leave Canada.
Who can Work On Campus?
You can only begin working in Canada once you begin your studies. You are unable to work until your studies begin.
More so, you can work as an international student in Canada if your study permit includes a provision allowing you to work on or off campus.
You are permitted to work on your school’s campus without a work permit if you:
- are a full-time post-secondary student at:
- a public post-secondary school such as a college, university, trade or technical school, or CEGEP in Quebec
- a private postsecondary school in Quebec that follows the same rules as public schools in Quebec
- the private or public secondary or post-secondary institution in Quebec that offers qualifying programs of 900 hours or more. This programĀ must lead to a diploma of vocational studies (DVS) or an attestation of vocational specialization is eligible (AVS)
- a private school in Canada that can legally award degrees under provincial law (for example, an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, or a doctorate), but only if the student is enrolled in a study program leading to a degree authorized by the province. This may not include all of the private institution’s programs of study.
- have a valid study permit, and
- Possess a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
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Who is not eligible to work off-campus in Canada?
Even if you are a full-time student at a DLI, you may be prohibited from working off-campus unless you have a work permit. This is true if you are:
- English or French as a second language (ESL/FSL) studies
- taking courses of general interest or courses to prepare for another study program
- a visiting or exchange student who will not receive a degree from your host university in Canada
If any of these apply to you, you must obtain a valid work permit in order to study and work in Canada.
How many hours can you work on a student visa?
If you qualify for off-campus employment, you may work up to 20 hours per week:
- during regular school sessions, or while studying if enrolled in an intensive program with no scheduled breaks
- if you are studying part-time because you are finishing your program’s final session
- if you are a graduate student who has completed all of your degree requirements.
However, you can work and study in Canada full-time:
- during scheduled breaks, such as the winter and summer holidays, or during spring break
- If you have applied for another work permit after finishing your studies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Work and Study in Canada
Can I work and study in Canada at the same time?
Yes, international students with a study permit can work on or off campus while studying. However, there are some restrictions and conditions that must be met.
How many hours can I work while studying in Canada?
International students can work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer and winter holidays.
Can I stay in Canada after completing my studies?
Yes, international students who complete their studies in Canada may be eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). The PGWP allows them to work in Canada for up to three years after graduation.
How do I apply for a study permit in Canada?
To apply for a study permit in Canada, you need to first be accepted by a designated learning institution (DLI) and provide proof of acceptance, have a valid passport, provide proof of financial support, and satisfy other requirements set by the Canadian government.
Can I bring my family members with me to Canada while studying?
Yes, you can bring your spouse/common-law partner and dependent children with you to Canada while studying. They will need to apply for a visitor visa or a study permit if they plan to study in Canada.
How much does it cost to study in Canada?
The cost of studying in Canada varies depending on the institution, program, and location. Generally, international students should budget at least CAD $10,000 to $15,000 per year for tuition fees, plus additional expenses for housing, food, and other living expenses.
Can I work in Canada after my PGWP expires?
If you want to continue working in Canada after your PGWP expires, you may be able to apply for permanent residence through a number of immigration programs offered by the Canadian government.
What are the English language requirements for studying in Canada?
The English language requirements for studying in Canada vary depending on the institution and program. Generally, international students need to provide proof of English proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.
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