Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students, due to its high-quality education system, diverse culture, and excellent job opportunities. While studying in Canada is an exciting experience, managing your finances is not just important—it’s essential for making the most of your time there. Many students opt for part-time jobs in Canada while studying to help cover their living expenses and gain valuable work experience.
However, it is important to understand the rules and regulations related to student working hours in Canada. In this guide, we will discuss the limits on student working hours, eligibility requirements, and other important details to help international students work legally and efficiently in Canada.
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Understanding Student Working Hours in Canada
For international students, working part-time while studying in Canada offers a valuable opportunity to earn income, gain Canadian work experience, and develop skills that can benefit your future career. However, there are specific rules and regulations governing student working hours in Canada that you must understand to ensure compliance with immigration laws.
Eligibility to Work in Canada
To work in Canada as an international student, you need to meet certain criteria. You must:
- Be a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI).
- Have a valid study permit that allows you to work on or off campus.
- Be enrolled in a program that leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate, and that is at least 6 months long.
If you meet these conditions, you are eligible to work in Canada, but the number of hours you can work depends on various factors, which we will explore below.
Working Hours During Regular Studies
During regular academic sessions (while classes are in session), international students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week. This limit applies to both on-campus and off-campus work. The rationale behind this restriction is to ensure that students prioritize their studies while still having the opportunity to earn some income.
Working Hours During Breaks (Holidays and Vacations)
One of the key benefits of studying in Canada is the opportunity to work full-time during scheduled breaks, such as winter or summer vacations, or other scheduled school holidays. During these periods, students can work Full-time- there is no limit.
This full-time work option allows students to earn more income during their time off from studies. However, it’s important to remember that this applies only to designated breaks and not during the regular academic term.
On-Campus Work
On-campus work refers to jobs that are located within the university or college campus. These jobs can be offered by the institution, student organizations, or commercial enterprises located on the campus.
International students with a valid study permit are allowed to work on-campus without a work permit as long as they are enrolled full-time in a program at a DLI. There is no specific limit on the number of hours you can work on-campus during the academic term, but it’s always best to check with your institution’s rules.
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Off-Campus Work
Off-campus work refers to employment with employers who are not affiliated with your school. For international students, off-campus work is allowed under the following conditions:
- You must have a valid study permit that explicitly allows off-campus work.
- You must be a full-time student enrolled in a DLI.
- You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
Co-op or Internship Programs
In certain programs, students may be required to complete a co-op (cooperative education) or internship as part of their academic requirements. For these programs, students can work full-time during the semester, as long as the co-op or internship is an essential part of the curriculum.
To work as part of a co-op or internship program, you must:
- Have a valid study permit.
- Have an official letter from your school confirming that the work placement is a part of your program.
- Apply for a co-op work permit in addition to your study permit.
Consequences of Violating Work Hour Restrictions
It’s essential to follow the regulations regarding student working hours in Canada. Violating these rules, such as working more hours than allowed or working without proper authorization, could lead to serious consequences, including:
- Loss of student status.
- A fine or deportation.
- Difficulty obtaining work permits in the future.
Always ensure that your work hours comply with the conditions set out in your study permit to avoid any legal complications.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
After completing 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 three years, depending on the length of your study program. The PGWP is an excellent way for international students to gain valuable work experience in Canada after graduation.
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IRCC Working Hour Rules for International Students
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently made changes to the working hours for international students in Canada. These changes will affect how many hours you can work while studying and when you can work full-time. Here’s a breakdown of the rules and the flexibility they offer:
| Aspect | Details | Eligibility | Examples |
| Study Term Work Limit | International students can work up to 20 hours per week during regular study terms (fall/winter semesters). | Full-time students with a valid study permit. | Working in the library, cafeteria, or as a research assistant. |
| Full-Time Work During Breaks | Students can work full-time (40+ hours/week) during scheduled breaks (e.g., summer holidays, winter break, etc.). | All students during scheduled academic breaks. | Working at a retail store or in a research lab during the summer holidays. |
| Recent Flexibility | Some exceptions allow students to work more than 20 hours during the semester, depending on the program, funding requirements, or other criteria. | Certain academic programs, or funding and work-study opportunities. | Working as a research assistant or in a co-op program. |
| Post-Graduation Work | After completing their studies, international students can work full-time under a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) if eligible. | Graduates from eligible Canadian institutions. | Working in a full-time job related to the field of study after graduation. |
| Work Without a Permit | Some on-campus jobs or certain programs may allow students to work without a work permit. | Students in specific programs or working on campus. | Working in the student center, bookstore, or as a teaching assistant. |
On-Campus vs. Off-Campus Work: What Are the Differences?
When it comes to working while studying in Canada, international students have the option to work either on-campus or off-campus, each with its own rules and advantages. Both offer unique opportunities, and understanding these differences is essential for students to make the best choice based on their academic schedules, career goals, and work preferences.
| Criteria | On-Campus Work | Off-Campus Work |
| Location | Located within the university or college campus | Located outside the university campus |
| Eligibility | Valid study permit, enrolled full-time in a recognized institution | Valid study permit, enrolled full-time in a recognized program, work permit required |
| Hours of Work | No set limit, but should prioritize academics | Up to 20 hours per week during studies, full time during scheduled breaks |
| Work Permit | No separate work permit required | Work permit required, with eligibility criteria |
| Taxation | Income is subject to tax | Income is subject to tax |
| Job Opportunities | Limited to campus jobs (e.g., library, office) | Broad range of opportunities (e.g., retail, internships) |
| Impact on Studies | Easier to balance with studies, flexible hours | Can be more demanding, may require better time management |
Best Part-Time Jobs for Students in Canada
Working part-time while studying in Canada is a great way for students to gain experience, learn new skills, and earn some extra money. There are many job options both on-campus and off-campus. Here’s an easy guide to help you understand the different part-time job opportunities available.
On-Campus Part-Time Jobs
On-campus jobs allow students to work directly on their university or college campus. These jobs are easy to access and save time since you don’t have to commute. However, there are usually limited spots, so it’s a good idea to apply early.
Common on-campus part-time jobs include:
| Job Title | Estimated Hourly Salary | Job Description |
| Library Assistant | CAD 12 – CAD 18 | Assist students with resources and manage library inventories. |
| Cafeteria Staff | CAD 12 – CAD 15 | Work in campus dining facilities, serving food or assisting with kitchen operations. |
| Administrative Assistant | CAD 14 – CAD 18 | Provide office support, manage paperwork, answer calls, and assist in various campus departments. |
| Teaching Assistant | CAD 15 – CAD 25 | Assist professors with grading, tutoring, and academic research. |
| Tech Department Support | CAD 15 – CAD 20 | Provide technical assistance with IT-related issues, hardware, and software. |
| Bookstore Assistant | CAD 13 – CAD 18 | Work in the campus bookstore, assist with stock management, customer service, and transactions. |
| Tech Guide | CAD 14 – CAD 20 | Help students with using campus technology such as computer labs and online resources. |
Off-Campus Part-Time Jobs
Off-campus jobs give students a chance to work outside of the school, helping them gain experience in the local community. To work off-campus, students need to be eligible and can only work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year.
Popular off-campus jobs include:
| Job Title | Estimated Hourly Salary | Job Description |
| Server at Restaurants | CAD 10 – CAD 15 (plus tips) | Provide customer service, take orders, and serve food at restaurants, cafes, and bars. |
| Bartender | CAD 12 – CAD 18 (plus tips) | Serve alcoholic beverages and manage bar services at bars and restaurants. |
| Babysitter/Nanny | CAD 15 – CAD 20 | Care for children, including babysitting and providing nanny services. |
| Driver | CAD 15 – CAD 25 (varies by service) | Work for ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to transport passengers. |
| Pet Walker | CAD 12 – CAD 18 | Walk dogs and provide pet care services for pet owners. |
| Retail Assistant | CAD 13 – CAD 18 | Assist customers, restock shelves, and manage sales at retail outlets. |
| Tutor | CAD 15 – CAD 30 | Provide academic tutoring services in subjects such as math, science, or languages. |
| Freelancer | CAD 20 – CAD 50+ | Use skills in writing, graphic design, web development, or other fields for freelance work. |
| Nanny | CAD 15 – CAD 25 | Provide childcare and housekeeping services for families. |
| Supervisor | CAD 15 – CAD 22 | Oversee operations and manage staff at retail stores, restaurants, or other establishments. |
Co-op Placements
Co-op placements are like internships, where students work in jobs related to their study program. This gives them real-world experience. Some co-op jobs may require a special work permit if the job is part of your academic course.
Examples of co-op jobs include:
| Job Title | Estimated Hourly Salary | Job Description |
| Project Intern | CAD 15 – CAD 25 | Assist with project management and planning in various industries. |
| Business Analyst Intern | CAD 18 – CAD 30 | Support analysis of business data and help in improving business processes. |
| Business Development Coordinator | CAD 18 – CAD 28 | Assist with business development activities, market research, and strategy planning. |
| Data-entry Intern | CAD 12 – CAD 18 | Input and manage data for businesses, ensuring accuracy and timely entry. |
| Sales Associate Intern | CAD 12 – CAD 18 | Gain sales and marketing experience, assist with customer relations. |
| Salesforce Intern | CAD 20 – CAD 35 | Work with Salesforce CRM software for business development and customer relationship management. |
| Customer Service Representative | CAD 14 – CAD 20 | Assist customers by resolving inquiries, providing product information, and managing customer support. |
| Translator Intern | CAD 15 – CAD 25 | Assist with language translation for businesses or organizations. |
Tips to Balance Studies and Work as a Student in Canada
Balancing studies and work as a student in Canada can be challenging, but with proper planning and time management, it’s possible to excel in both areas while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Here are some tips to help you successfully manage your academic and work commitments.
- Create a Schedule: Organize your time by creating a weekly schedule that includes your classes, study time, work hours, and personal time. This will help you stay on track and avoid last-minute stress.
- Prioritize Tasks: Focus on completing important tasks first. Use a task list or planner to help you prioritize assignments, work deadlines, and study sessions.
- Stay Organized: Keep your study materials, work schedules, and personal items organized. This will help you save time and reduce confusion when juggling multiple tasks.
- Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals for both your studies and work. Avoid overloading yourself with too many shifts or assignments, as it can lead to burnout.
- Communicate with Your Employer: Be transparent with your employer about your study commitments. Many employers will be flexible and may offer shifts that align with your academic schedule.
- Take Advantage of Breaks: Use your breaks between classes to study or catch up on work-related tasks. Short, productive sessions during downtime can make a huge difference.
- Make Time for Rest: Ensure that you get enough sleep and take breaks. Overworking yourself, whether academically or at your job, can harm your health and overall performance.
- Balance Social and Work Life
Don’t forget to make time for social activities, friends, and relaxation. A balanced lifestyle will help keep you motivated and reduce stress. - Ask for Support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mentor, academic advisor, or counselor. They can offer valuable advice and strategies for balancing your commitments.
Ultimately, understanding student working hours in Canada is key to balancing your studies and work. By following the guidelines for on-campus and off-campus work, along with any exceptions for specific programs, you can manage your time effectively while staying compliant with immigration rules.
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FAQs on Student Working Hours in Canada
Yes, Student working hours in Canada are regulated for international students. As long as you have a valid study permit, you can work while studying. You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic terms (fall/winter semesters) and full-time during breaks, as long as the work complies with IRCC regulations.
During the academic term, Student working hours in Canada are limited to 20 hours per week. This allows you to balance your studies with part-time employment. However, this limit applies to all paid work, including both on-campus and off-campus employment.
Yes, Student working hours in Canada can exceed the 20-hour limit during scheduled breaks like summer holidays, winter break, and other school vacations. You are allowed to work full-time (40+ hours per week) during these periods when you have fewer academic responsibilities.
In certain cases, students may be allowed to work more than 20 hours per week during the semester. This typically applies to students in co-op programs, work-study positions, or funded research jobs. You must verify with your school or program to see if you qualify for these exceptions to working hours in Canada.
Yes, Student working hours in Canada allow students to work on-campus without needing a work permit, provided you meet the requirements. You must have a valid study permit and be enrolled full-time in a designated learning institution (DLI). There is no restriction on the number of hours you can work on-campus, but your work must comply with the terms of your study permit.
Yes, you can work as a freelancer during your studies, but you must comply with the weekly work-hour limits. Freelance work must also meet the conditions of your study permit.
Once you complete your studies, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work full-time in Canada. You need to apply within 180 days of receiving your final transcript or completion letter from your educational institution. The length of the PGWP depends on the duration of your study program.
Yes, after receiving a PGWP, Student working hours in Canada are not restricted. You are allowed to work full-time, whether the job is related to your field of study or not. The PGWP gives you the flexibility to gain work experience in Canada and is a step toward potentially applying for permanent residency.
Yes, you can work multiple part-time jobs, as long as the total hours do not exceed the 20-hour limit during academic terms. You can work full-time during breaks.
Exceeding the working hours limit can lead to penalties, including fines, losing your study permit, or being asked to leave Canada. Always make sure to stay within the legal working hours.
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