Working in Canada as an International Student: Rules and Restrictions

Working while studying in Canada can help international students gain experience, build professional connections and manage some of their living expenses. But having a study permit does not automatically mean you can work whenever or as many hours as you want.

Your ability to work depends on the conditions of your study permit, your program and enrolment status, whether the work is on or off campus, and whether classes are in session.

Understanding these rules is important because working when you are not authorized—or working more hours than permitted—can affect your immigration status and future applications.

Can I Work While Studying in Canada?

You may be able to work in Canada without obtaining a separate work permit if you meet the applicable requirements and your study permit includes a condition authorizing you to work.

You cannot begin working before your study program starts.

For off-campus work, eligible students generally need to be studying full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI) in an eligible academic, vocational or professional program that is at least six months long and leads to a degree, diploma or certificate.

There are exceptions in certain circumstances, including eligible students studying part-time during the final semester of their program.

How Many Hours Can I Work Off Campus?

During a regular academic term, eligible international students can generally work:

Up to 24 hours per week off campus.

This is a weekly limit—not an average.

For example, working fewer hours one week does not mean you can automatically transfer those unused hours to the following week.

You may have more than one job, but the combined off-campus hours must remain within the permitted limit while classes are in session.

What About Scheduled School Breaks?

Different rules may apply during an eligible scheduled break.

Students who meet the requirements may work unlimited hours off campus during scheduled breaks such as summer or winter holidays or reading week.

However, a weekend or statutory holiday by itself does not automatically qualify as a scheduled break. The break generally must be scheduled by your school and last at least seven consecutive days.

If your program does not have scheduled breaks, the regular 24-hour weekly off-campus limit continues to apply.

What About Working On Campus?

Eligible international students may also be permitted to work on campus.

Unlike off-campus employment, IRCC does not currently impose a specific weekly hour limit on eligible on-campus work during regular academic terms or scheduled breaks.

However, you must continue to meet the requirements that authorize you to work on campus.

What About Co-op and Internship Placements?

This is an area where the rules changed in 2026.

As of April 1, 2026, eligible post-secondary international students no longer require a separate co-op work permit for qualifying student work placements, such as co-op placements and internships.

Students must still meet the applicable eligibility requirements, so it is important to confirm that your particular placement and study situation qualify before beginning work.

When Must I Stop Working?

Having previously been eligible to work does not necessarily mean that authorization continues regardless of changes to your studies.

For example, your ability to work may be affected if you:

• take an authorized leave from your studies;

• stop meeting the applicable enrolment requirements;

• are between schools and are not currently studying;

• allow your study permit to expire; or

• complete your program.

There are specific rules that may allow certain graduates to work while awaiting a decision on a post-graduation work permit or another work permit, but the requirements must be met.

Keep Track of Your Hours

One of the easiest mistakes to avoid is also one of the most important: losing track of how many hours you have actually worked.

IRCC places responsibility on the student to keep track of off-campus working hours and demonstrate that study permit conditions have been respected.

Consider keeping records such as:

• work schedules;

• timesheets;

• pay stubs;

• employment agreements; and

• records from each employer if you have more than one job.

Self-employed students also need to track the time they spend performing services, selling products or earning commissions.

What Happens If I Work More Than 24 Hours?

Working more than the permitted off-campus hours while classes are in session can constitute a violation of your study permit conditions.

The consequences can be significant. Non-compliance may affect your student status and future study or work permit applications and, depending on the circumstances, could result in having to leave Canada.

This is why students should not rely only on an employer, school or friend to tell them how many hours they are permitted to work. Your individual immigration status and study permit conditions matter.

Before You Start Working: 5 Things to Check

Before accepting or continuing employment, ask yourself:

1. Does my study permit authorize me to work?

2. Am I currently eligible to work based on my enrolment and program?

3. Is the job on campus, off campus or a student work placement?

4. Are classes currently in session or am I in an eligible scheduled break?

5. Am I keeping accurate records of my working hours?

Working while studying can be a valuable part of your Canadian experience—but maintaining your immigration status should always come first.

Learn Before You Apply. Prepare Today. Succeed Tomorrow.

Need advice about your particular circumstances? Book a consultation today!

This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration requirements can change, and individual circumstances matter.