Studying in Canada is an enriching experience, but it can also represent a significant financial investment. Fortunately, Canada offers international students the possibility to work during their studies to help them meet their needs, gain professional experience, and integrate into the Canadian job market. This article covers everything you need to know about working during your studies in Canada.
Requirements for working in Canada as a student
As a holder of a valid study permit, you have the opportunity to work while studying, under certain conditions:
- Be enrolled as a full-time student;
- Be enrolled in a designated learning institution (DLI) at a post-secondary level, or, in Quebec, in a secondary-level vocational training program;
- Be enrolled in a general or vocational training program that lasts at least six months and leads to a diploma or certificate;
- Hold a valid study permit;
- Have a Social Insurance Number (SIN). This number is mandatory to work legally in Canada.
Exception: If you are enrolled part-time during your final academic session before graduating, you are still allowed to work, provided all other requirements are met.
Note:
Starting January 21, 2025, new restrictions apply to open work permits for spouses and common-law partners of international students. Only spouses of students enrolled in master's programs (lasting 16 months or more), doctoral programs, or certain eligible professional programs will be able to apply for an open work permit. This permit will allow them to work for any employer in Canada during the duration of their partner's study permit.
Spouses already holding an open work permit before January 21, 2025, are not affected. With this restriction, spouses of students enrolled in undergraduate programs (bachelor's) or shorter technical and professional diplomas are no longer eligible for an open work permit. This could make settling in Canada more challenging for some couples, limiting their ability to generate income and integrate more easily before a potential permanent residency application.
Process for obtaining a SIN in Canada
The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is essential for working legally in Canada. Employers use it to report your income to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Here's how to obtain it:
Visit a Service Canada office.
Bring the necessary documents:
- Your valid study permit indicating that you are authorized to work.
- A proof of identity (your passport).
The SIN is generally issued immediately during your visit. It is a nine-digit number.
You will receive a paper with the number written on it. You must provide your SIN to your employer, but it is crucial not to disclose it unnecessarily. Your SIN is sensitive personal information that could be used for fraudulent purposes. Make sure to note this number in case you lose the paper.
Good to know:
Obtaining a SIN is free. Your SIN is valid as long as you are authorized to work in Canada. If your study permit expires, your authorization to work also expires.
Conditions for working in Canada
You must have received your study permit and be authorized to enter Canada. Your study permit must be valid and specify that you are allowed to work on or off-campus. You can only start working in Canada after you have begun your study program.
Since November 8, 2024, students are allowed to work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week without a work permit during regular academic sessions. During scheduled breaks, such as winter, summer, and the so-called fall and spring reading weeks, you can work full-time. There is no fixed limit. Students can work an unlimited number of hours during these periods, as long as they meet their other obligations (being a full-time student before and after the break).
For on-campus work, there is no limit to the number of hours as long as you maintain your full-time student status.
Types of jobs available for students in Canada
On-campus jobs
On-campus jobs are convenient as they do not require significant commuting. Here are some examples:
- Administrative assistant;
- Library employee;
- Campus store employee;
- Worker in a cafeteria;
- Research or teaching assistant;
- Tutor;
- Student residence facilitator;
- Student representative.
Off-campus jobs
International students can also find off-campus jobs in various sectors:
- Fast food or restaurants;
- Retail (stores, supermarkets);
- Services (receptionist, customer assistant);
- Administrative positions in local businesses;
- Delivery person;
- Cashier;
- Housekeeper;
- Warehouse clerk.
Self-employed workers
Students with a valid study permit can work for themselves as self-employed workers, provided they comply with the conditions of their study permit. This means they can run their own business or offer freelance services while continuing their studies. These services can include writing, marketing, photography, translation, web development, etc. However, they must adhere to the 24-hour per week limit during regular academic sessions and can work full-time during scheduled breaks.
Cooperative programs in Canada
In some study programs, students are required to complete several paid internships in Canada to graduate. This is what French-speaking universities call the co-op program. A few of these co-op programs are open to international students, but exceptions exist. If you are affected, you will need to obtain a work permit as a co-op program participant in addition to your study permit. The co-op work permit is closed, meaning it can only be used for a specific job and a particular employer. Your educational institution must provide you with a letter stating that all students participating in your study program must complete professional internships to graduate, so you can apply for your work permit. Moreover, these professional experiences must represent a maximum of 50% of the total duration of your study program.
Finding a job in Canada
Many post-secondary institutions offer employment assistance services. If you are unsure who to turn to, start by contacting the international student service at your institution. You can also check the classifieds or the Canadian government's job search site,
Impact of work on your student status in Canada
Compliance with rules
It is crucial to comply with the conditions related to your study permit and the authorized working hours. If you exceed these limits or fail to meet your academic obligations, it could result in losing your legal status in Canada.
Tax implications
The income you earn in Canada must be declared during the annual tax season. You may be eligible for certain tax credits as an international student. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how to correctly report your income and what deductions and credits you might be eligible for.
The tax period in Canada runs from January 1 to December 31 each year. You must report your income before the deadline, which is generally April 30 of the following year.
To declare your income, you will need certain documents, including your Social Insurance Number (SIN), your T4 slips (pay stubs from your employers), and any other relevant documents concerning your eligible expenses for tax credits.
Several options are available to prepare and submit your tax return:
- Tax software: User-friendly software like TurboTax, H&R Block, or Wealthsimple Tax can guide you through the declaration process and help you identify the tax credits you are entitled to.
- Professional accountants: If you prefer personalized assistance, hiring a professional accountant is highly recommended, especially at the beginning. They will know exactly what rights you can claim, saving you valuable time when studying and working simultaneously.
- Tax assistance service: Service Canada offers a free tax assistance service for individuals with modest incomes and a simple tax situation.
Benefits of working while studying in Canada
Working while studying in Canada offers several significant advantages:
- Financial support: The income generated can help cover your daily expenses, such as housing, food, and transportation.
- Canadian work experience: This experience is often valued by Canadian employers when you seek a job after your studies.
- Personal development: Working enhances your time management, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Professional networking: You can establish valuable contacts that could help you in your future career.
Practical tips for balancing work and studies in Canada
Working while studying in Canada can be demanding. Here are some tips for effectively managing your responsibilities:
- Plan your schedule: Use a calendar to balance your classes, work hours, and rest times.
- Prioritize your studies: Ensure your job does not compromise your academic performance.
- Communicate with your employer: Inform them from the start that you are a student so they can adapt your schedule accordingly.
- Take care of yourself: Ensure you have enough time to sleep, eat healthily, and engage in relaxing activities.
- Set realistic goals: Honestly assess the number of hours you can dedicate to work and studies each week. Do not overload yourself to the point of exhaustion.
- Make use of downtime: Use bus rides or work breaks to review your notes or read articles. Every little moment counts.
- Create a dedicated study space: Having a quiet and organized place to study can improve your concentration and productivity.
- Learn to say no: It is important to know how to refuse extra work hours if you feel it will affect your studies or well-being.
- Use digital tools: Task management apps, reminders, and online learning platforms can help you stay organized and track your progress.
- Find a relevant job: If possible, look for a job that complements your field of study. This can make work more interesting and provide valuable experience.
Other professional programs for students in Canada
You also have the opportunity to work in Canada if you participate in the International Experience Canada program. You must be between 18 and 35 years old and your home country must have signed an agreement with Canada.
The International Co-op category is for you if you need to do an internship as part of your studies and you receive an offer from a Canadian employer. If you wish to travel and work to fund your trip, you can try your luck in the Working Holiday category. The WHV is ideal for financing your trip and temporarily studying (e.g., English courses), offering great freedom to explore different regions of Canada while gaining varied professional experience.
Since June 27, 2023, temporary expatriate workers can study more easily, without a study permit, until the expiration date of their work permit. This official announcement was made by the Minister of Immigration. The study authorization has been extended for work permit holders, effective immediately. This new measure cancels the previous one, which imposed a limit on the duration of study programs accessible to foreign workers without a study permit (maximum 6 months). This new measure is planned to last 3 years. For more information, read the section “Studying and Working in Canada: New Measures” in this article, and check your eligibility on this page.
Working in Canada will allow you to gain valuable professional experience. It will also help you establish business contacts for the future, and may also assist you in obtaining permanent residency. Many people considering permanent settlement in Canada start with studies. It's a common strategy, as the country offers advantageous immigration programs for international graduates.
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