Work Options in Canada for International Students

Canada has alluring prospects for the majority of the international students who wish to study overseas as it has a significant position among the world’s foremost study destinations. Apart from this, it’s easier for international students to apply for a permanent residence there as it is sparsely populated.

We’re sure you all must be knowing these facts when you’re trying to understand more about Canada.

Are you also looking for study options in Canada?

In that case, apart from finalizing a University/college where you fit in for your desired program, most of you may also be anxious to analyze the work choices while studying so that you can earn and be self-reliant.

Certain work opportunities provide financial support while giving you practical exposure and developing expertise which becomes an added advantage while applying for a Full-Time Job after completing your degree or Diploma.

The work while study option also allows you to socialize with the local crowd while getting exposure to the work trends and the lifestyle in the country.

Student Work Options in Canada

Students are eligible to work on or off campus from day one if they get the Study Permit.

Study Permits are issued to those who pursue an academic, vocational or professional training of six months or more which leads to a degree, diploma or certificate at a chosen Learning Institution.

Those who get the study permits do not have to apply for a separate work permit.

Work Hours

  • Part-time work during semesters (up to 20 hours/week)
  • Full-time job during vacation (40 hours/week)

Co-ops & Internship Programmes: 

  • Inbuilt internships of one or two semesters
  • Opportunity to get first-hand Industry related exposure and experience in the relevant area of study

Work on-campus

  • You won’t require a work permit or a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
  • You can exceed the 20 hours per week limit during semesters.

Summer or Part-time job

Those who desire to be eligible for an off-campus job, have to meet the following criteria:

  • You have to be a full-time student with a valid study permit.
  • You must have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
  • You must get admission at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
  • You must pursue a degree, a diploma or a certificate programme

Post Study Work Visa for International Students

All the international students who graduate from a Canadian Post-Secondary Institution are eligible for a Post Study Work Visa.

Criteria for Post Study Work Visa

  • You have to study full-time for at least eight months before the completion of your program
  • You have to graduate from a Designated Learning Institution
  • You have to complete and pass the program of study and receive a written notification of eligibility to obtain your degree, diploma, or certificate
  • You must apply for a Post-Study Work Permit within 90 days of receiving the written confirmation from your academic institution
  • You are supposed to have a valid Study Permit when applying for the Post-Study Work Visa

Duration of Work Permit:

  • 1-year Study: 1-year extension
  • 2/3/4/5 years of Study: up to 3 years of extension (As per the discretion of the Visa Officers)

Steps for an efficient job hunt in Canada

Before you go job hunting, you should ensure that you get a Social Insurance Number which will be essential for work and you should have access to the national programmes and other benefits.

Recommendations

It is easier to get jobs based on recommendations, so it is beneficial to develop your network so that you get the right recommendation at the right time.

Expand your network

  • Join a professional/student association
  • Involve in volunteer work
  • Participate in information sessions

You see it’s so easy to earn while studying and even post study in Canada and you have ample scope to be financially self-sufficient. You just have to proceed in a systematic way with the right approach.

Once you do this you can undoubtedly make Canada your study destination and progress in leaps and bounds.