How many hours can you work as an international student in Canada?

May 21, 2025 Student Resources
How many hours can you work as an international student in Canada?
Changes to off-campus work hours: As of November 8, 2024, students are allowed to work off campus up to 24 hours per week without a work permit. Make sure you meet the other requirements for working while you study. Many international students are interested in working while they study in Canada to gain work experience, make connections with employers, and earn some additional money. To ensure that you are working legally while studying in Canada, there are some important requirements that you need to meet. International students may not start working in Canada until they have started their full-time program of study. Working off-campus while studying International students studying at the UM must meet all of the following requirements to work off campus while they are studying. You must: have a valid study permit that includes a condition stating they are authorized to work in Canada be a full-time student be enrolled in an academic, vocational or professional training program be enrolled in a program of study at least six months or more in duration that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate. have a valid Social Insurance Number (S.I.N) During scheduled breaks, such as summer or winter holidays, there is no limit on the number of hours students can work. Off-campus work includes areas outside the educational institution and its campus, including self-employment roles like Uber or DoorDash deliveries. Working on-campus as an international student in Canada For international students in Canada, finding a part-time job may be a good way to gain international experience while also covering some basic expenses. International students in Canada can work on-campus in addition to off-campus employment, provided they meet the necessary eligibility criteria. Unlike off-campus work, there is no limit to the number of hours students can work on-campus. On-campus work refers to employment within the buildings or grounds of a school’s campus. This includes jobs with the school itself, faculty members, student organizations, or private businesses that operate on campus. Students can even work for themselves if they own a business that is physically located on-campus. If a school has multiple campuses, students are generally expected to work at the campus where they are enrolled. However, exceptions are possible, such as when a student is a research or teaching assistant, or when the work is tied to a research grant. Students may also work at libraries or research facilities affiliated with the school but located outside the main campus. Not abiding by the rules could have consequences including losing a student status, not being approved for a study or work permit in the future and even having to leave the country.
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