Work While You Study in Canada – Work Off Campus

International students in Canada can gain valuable work experience by working off campus while studying. This option allows students to work part-time during school terms and full-time during scheduled breaks — without needing a separate work permit.

Who Can Work Off Campus?

You may be eligible if you:

• Hold a valid study permit with work authorization.
• Are a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI).
• Are enrolled in a post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional program of at least 6 months that leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
• Have started your studies.
• Have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

Part-time students may still qualify if they are in their final semester and were full-time previously.

How Many Hours Can You Work Off Campus?

• During regular semesters: Up to 24 hours per week.
• During scheduled breaks (summer, winter holidays, reading week): Unlimited hours allowed, if you were full-time before and will return to full-time after the break.
• Self-employed students: The same weekly hour limits apply; you must track and prove your hours.

Working more than 24 hours per week during study terms is a violation of study permit conditions and can affect your status in Canada.

Who Cannot Work Off Campus?

You are not eligible if you:

• Are only enrolled in ESL/FSL programs (English or French as a second language).
• Are taking general interest courses.
• Are only studying prerequisites for a full-time program.
• Do not meet all eligibility requirements listed on your study permit

Why Legal Guidance Matters

While off-campus work seems straightforward, missteps can put your student status at risk. Our law firm helps international students understand their rights, stay compliant with work conditions, and plan pathways to permanent residency.