Canada has become one of the top choices for international students who want not only a world-class education but also valuable work opportunities. Many students dream of studying in Canada because it allows them to work during their studies, gain Canadian work experience, and eventually transition to permanent residency (PR).
At Globexa Immigration, we guide students step by step — from getting a study permit to understanding the work rules during and after studies, and even planning for PR. Here’s a complete guide to help you stay informed and compliant.
1. Why International Students Want to Work in Canada
Manage expenses: Tuition and living costs can be high, and part-time work helps reduce the financial burden.
Gain Canadian work experience: This improves job prospects after graduation.
Pathway to PR: Work experience in Canada makes you eligible for immigration programs such as Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Networking: Working helps you build professional and community connections.
Globexa Immigration has helped hundreds of students take advantage of these opportunities while ensuring they follow all IRCC rules.
1.1 Work Rules During Your Studies
As an international student, your primary purpose is to study. But with a valid study permit, you can work under certain conditions.
a) On-Campus Work
You can work at your college or university campus without a separate work permit.
Employers may include:
The institution itself.
A professor (research assistant or lab assistant).
Student organizations, clubs, or campus services.
There is no hour restriction for on-campus work.
Example: You could work at the library, student center, or as a research assistant.
b) Off-Campus Work
You can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic session.
You can work full-time during scheduled breaks such as summer, winter holidays, or reading weeks.
Eligibility requirements:
You must have a valid study permit.
You must be a full-time student at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
The program must be at least 6 months long and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Example: Many students work part-time at retail stores, restaurants, or as tutors.
c) Co-op & Internship Work
If your academic program requires work experience as part of the curriculum, you need a co-op work permit.
Your school must confirm that the work placement is a mandatory part of your studies.
Co-op work can be full-time depending on your program structure.
Example: A business student might need to complete a 4-month internship at a Canadian company as part of their degree.
1.2 Recent Updates on Student Work Hours
Canada has introduced temporary changes to help students work more hours.
From November 15, 2022, to April 30, 2024, IRCC allowed students to work full-time off-campus instead of the 20-hour weekly limit.
This was introduced to address labor shortages in Canada.
Students should always check the IRCC website or consult with Globexa Immigration for updated rules before planning work schedules.
1.3 Work Rules After Graduation
After completing your studies, Canada allows students to continue working through specific permits.
a) Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
The PGWP is the most common option for graduates.
It is an open work permit, meaning you can work for any employer in Canada.
Validity:
Program of 8 months to <2 years → PGWP valid for the same duration.
Program of 2 years or more → PGWP valid for up to 3 years.
This is a golden opportunity to gain the Canadian work experience required for PR.
b) Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)
If you have already applied for PR through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), you can apply for a BOWP.
This allows you to continue working legally while waiting for your PR decision.
c) Transition to Permanent Residency (PR)
After completing studies and gaining work experience through PGWP, students can apply for PR through different pathways:
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Requires at least 1 year of skilled work experience in Canada.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Many provinces offer immigration streams specifically for international graduates.
Other pathways: Programs like the Caregiver Pilot, Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot, or Agri-Food Pilot.
Globexa Immigration specializes in PR applications and can help students choose the right pathway after completing their studies.
1.4 Rules You Must Follow
While Canada offers flexibility, you must follow immigration rules strictly:
Do not work before your studies officially start.
Stop working immediately if your study permit expires or if you stop being a full-time student.
Unauthorized work may result in losing your student status and future visa refusals.
Globexa Immigration ensures students avoid these mistakes by providing expert legal guidance.
1.5 Benefits of Working in Canada as a Student
Earn money to support tuition and living expenses.
Develop skills relevant to your future career.
Gain Canadian work experience which is highly valued by employers.
Strengthen PR applications with work history.
Cultural exposure by interacting with Canadians and other international students.
Final Thoughts
Working in Canada during and after your studies is not just about making money — it’s a crucial step toward building your future career and achieving permanent residency. By understanding the rules and following IRCC guidelines, you can maximize your opportunities without risking your student status.
At Globexa Immigration, we help students understand their options, apply for the right permits, and prepare for permanent residency. Whether you need guidance for your study permit, PGWP, or immigration application, our experts are here to make your Canadian journey smooth and successful.
