Working While Studying in Canada

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Working While Studying in Canada

The Canadian government changed the terms of Canadian study permits in 2014. These changes allow international students to be granted authorization to work in Canada with most study permits. Canadian study permits permit full-time international students to work 20 hours per week during school sessions and full-time during breaks.

Studying in Canada while working is a great option. But, there are some things you need to know before you can start earning.

Studying while you work can provide you with income and help you meet new people. It also allows you to build connections that will make you stand out when looking for a job.

Learn more about Canada and the opportunities for international students to work in Canada before you begin looking for that dream job.

A study permit is not required for international students to work in Canada while studying.

  • A study permit can be used for a study program less than six months in length.
  • A study permit stipulates that the permit holder must work within a specified time frame.

International students may be allowed to work 20 hours per week, even if they do not attend full-time classes.

  • This student is in their final semester of a program. They do not need to take a full-time course load to complete the program.
  • This student is currently at the graduate study level and has completed all coursework required for their degree.

Note that a Canadian study permit can be revoked at any time. This means that the foreign national cannot work in Canada immediately. Any future Canadian immigration applications will be affected if a foreign national studies or works in Canada without legal authorization.

STUDYING IN CANADA WHILE YOU WORK

Eligibility

Students abroad who have a valid study permit and are enrolled full-time in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) may work on campus without a license. This allows you to work in any industry in Canada. Students from other countries can also work on campus if they so desire.

Work on campus is when you work for an employer other than a college or university. You can work on campus for any employer, including the university, college, faculty, student organization, private contractor, or as a research assistant.

Important to remember that you must still prove sufficient financial resources to apply for a study permit, even if your plans include working while studying in Canada. You will need to prove that you can support yourself while looking without working.

Expected future earnings won’t suffice when you have sufficient financial resources. Therefore, the fact that you plan to work while studying in Canada does not meet the requirement to show financial capability before arriving.

The conditions of employment and whether you are allowed to work in Canada will be stated on your study permit. This will enable you to apply for a Social Insurance Number from Service Canada. A SIN is required before you can start working while studying in Canada.

You can request a free amendment to your study permit if the required statement is not included in your pass. Although this can be done once you arrive in the country, it is easier to do so when your permit is issued. If you have any questions about your study permit, the Immigration officer can help you.

If your study program is shorter than six months or if you’re enrolled in an English or French as Second Language (FSL) program, you can’t work in Canada without permission. Students who are visiting or exchange students at DLI cannot work in Canada while studying.

You cannot work while studying in Canada without starting your program.

Looking for a job

The next step is finding a job. Part-time jobs are not uncommon in Canada, where employers are keen to hire students. It may seem easy to become eligible to work in Canada.

  • Find out more about Canada’s job market.

You will need to prepare your CV (or cover letter) before you apply for jobs or start searching. Your cover letter and resume are the essential tools to get the attention of potential employers and stand out as the best candidate for the job. Your resume should be up-to-date and properly formatted to meet Canadian employer expectations. Your cover letter is your opportunity to show off your personality and accomplishments. For each job, write a cover letter tailored to the position. Highlight how you meet their criteria. Online applications can use the cover letter as your introduction email. Attach your resume in a PDF.

You can look for work in many places. There are hundreds of jobs available on Indeed, Monster, and Craigslist websites. You may find a portal that offers jobs in your city, town, or library.

It is possible to walk around your neighborhood and look for restaurants or shops that advertise in the windows. You can also take paper copies if you decide to try this approach. Wear bright clothes appropriate for the business, such as a collared shirt, and avoid wearing blue jeans. Also, be aware of your availability. If you see something promising, please ask for information about the job. This is a great way to make a first impression and possibly get a job interview. This is a proven method of networking your way to success. We have a complete guide to networking techniques to assist you.

Canada has a strong culture that encourages students to work while they study. Keep in mind that your studies are the most important thing. Don’t be afraid to ask for time off during exam periods and when preparing for a deadline. Students who study while working have the same labor rights in Canada as other workers. You should be aware of your rights and the minimum wage in your provincial province. So that you can file your taxes, make sure you have payslips and a record of employment.