Can international student work full time in Canada?

Canada as a welcoming country has become a favourite place for international students who are seeking quality education.

The country has high academic standards, making it an amazing place for students worldwide.

It’s safe, and its universities and colleges (plus other academic institutes) are highly ranked in the world.

Also read: Can I look for a job in Canada with a tourist visa?

If you are considering studying in Canada, you are making a good choice, however, studying in Canada costs lots of money, and not many students can afford it.

Tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses can add up quickly, creating financial challenges for you, this is why most students choose to work while studying to earn some extra money.

Also read: disadvantages of studying in Australia for international students

This helps them manage their expenses and makes education in Canada more accessible to students from different parts of the world.

Many students find part-time jobs, like working in shops or cafes, to support themselves during their studies.

Also read: What happens if an international student comes to Canada and works illegally?

Canada just like many countries of the world allows students to work while studying but what are the conditions?

Can students work full-time?

This guide will explore the working terms for international students in Canada.

Can international students work full-time in Canada?

International students can work full-time in Canada, but it is only during term breaks like summer and winter breaks. Except for break times, you are not allowed to work full-time as an international student in Canada.

This means you can work a lot more hours (more than 20 hours per week) when you’re not in classes (during breaks) and fewer hours (only 20 hours per week) during regular school terms/semesters.

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When classes are in session, like during school time, you’re allowed to work up to 20 hours per week if you’re a full-time student in Canada.

This rule was made to help students focus on their studies while still having the opportunity to earn some money on the side.

As a student, your primary aim of coming to Canada is to study, not to work, that purpose must be maintained.

It’s a way to balance work and school – a way to make sure that students get a good education and a chance to gain work experience too.

A win-win situation

Work regulations for international students in Canada

There are rules you must obey to work as an international student in Canada.

To start, you must have a valid study permit. Your valid study permit is enough for you to work in Canada as a student.

In Canada, your study permit is not just a ticket to attend classes; it’s also the key for you to gain work experience and earn money on the side.

Also read: How to survive as an international student in the UK

Whether you’re studying for a short course (less than 2 years but more than 8 months program), a diploma, or a degree, having a valid study permit is all you need to work while you study.

Types of work and hours

On-campus work: One of the advantages of having a study permit is that you can work on-campus without the need for any extra work permit.

There are jobs around school environments that you can do with your study permit.

Also read: How do I correct a mistake on my UK visa application after submission?

On-campus jobs in Canada for International students

Library Assistant: You will assist in library operations, shelving books, helping students, and managing resources.
Research Assistant: In this job, you will work with professors on research projects that are related to your field of study.
Campus Tour Guide: If you get this job, you will help showcase your campus to prospective students and their families.
Administrative Assistant: You will assist in administrative duties in different departments on campus.
Cafeteria Staff: Here, you will work in the campus cafeteria or dining hall, serving food or managing operations.
Student Ambassador: As an Ambassador, you will represent the university at events.
Fitness Center Attendant: Your work here is to monitor gym facilities, assist with equipment, and support fitness programs.
IT Support Assistant: You will provide technical support to students and faculty on campus.
Language Lab Assistant: Here, you will assist students with language learning resources.
Tutoring Services: You can offer tutoring services as well.

Off-campus work: If you fancy gaining experience beyond the campus, you can apply for an Off-Campus Work Permit (OCWP).

Also read: How is life in Canada for immigrants

With your study permit, you can get a job off-campus, below are jobs you can do off-campus.

Off-campus jobs

Retail Positions: You can work in retail stores as a cashier, sales associate, or customer service rep.
Restaurant and Hospitality Jobs: You can get job opportunities in restaurants, cafes, hotels, and other hospitality establishments.
Administrative Jobs: You can do office assistant work.
Childcare Provider: You can do babysitting or work at daycare centres.
Sales and Marketing Positions: There are opportunities for entry-level roles in sales, marketing, or promotions.
Freelance Writing or Graphic Design: Use your skills for freelance projects online.
Delivery Driver: Can you drive? You can get driving jobs.
Call Center Jobs: You can do customer service roles in call centres or customer support centres.

Tips that will help you find a job

To get jobs easily, use your university job boards and career services.
You can also get jobs by attending job fairs and networking events.
Another place to find a job is online. Check online job platforms and community bulletin boards.
Finally, you can get jobs by networking with professors, fellow students, and local professionals.

Can international students work in Canada after graduation?

Yes, international students can work in Canada after graduation through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program.

The PGWP allows students who have completed a program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada to work for up to three years after graduation.

Also read: How can I get a scholarship to study in Canada

Not everyone is allowed to work for up to three years, the length of the PGWP depends on the length of the study program completed.

Conclusion

If you are an international student in Canada, working while studying is a great idea, not only will you gain work experience but you will also earn money on the side.

All you need is your study permit, you can work on or off-campus, working can also help you build connections, meet locals and make more friends in Canada.