Students Working Hours in Canada: Rules, Benefits, and Opportunities

Canada has emerged as a top destination for international students because of its high-quality education and outstanding quality of life. Beyond the academic appeal, Canada offers unique opportunities for students to work part-time during their studies, enhancing their overall experience.

Regulations on Students Working Hours in Canada

International students in Canada can work on or off-campus under certain conditions. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has outlined specific rules regarding working hours for students:

1. Student Working Hours in Canada During Classes

International students are allowed to work off-campus for up to 24 hours a week during regular academic sessions without a work visa as of November 8, 2024. The goal of this change is to give students more financial flexibility while maintaining the importance of their academic obligations.

2. Student Working Hours in Canada During Scheduled Breaks

International students can work full-time off-campus during assigned vacations, such as the winter and summer holidays. During this time, students are free to make extra money without being restricted by their academic obligations.

Want to get Canada PR? Read this: Canada PR Process Step-by-Step from India in 2024

Eligibility Criteria to Work as a Student in Canada

To be eligible to work as a student in Canada, you must meet certain criteria. Here are the general eligibility requirements:

1. Valid Study Permit: You must have a valid study permit to study in Canada as an international student. Your study permit should explicitly state that you are allowed to work on or off campus.
2. Enrolled in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): You must be enrolled in a designated learning institution in Canada. DLIs are schools approved by the provincial or territorial government to host international students.
3. Full-time Student: You must be enrolled as a full-time student in a program that leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate. The specific definition of full-time may vary depending on the institution, so it's important to check with your school.
4. Valid Social Insurance Number (SIN): To work in Canada, you need a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN). You can apply for a SIN from Service Canada.
5. Work Permit: Depending on the type of work you want to do, you may need a work permit. There are two types of work permits available for international students: on-campus work permits and off-campus work permits. The conditions and restrictions for each type of work permit may vary, so it's important to check the specific requirements.
6. Compliance with Work Hour Restrictions: As an international student, you are generally allowed to work part-time during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer or winter holidays. There may be restrictions on the number of hours you can work per week, so it's important to check the regulations.

How to Find a Job as a Student in Canada?

Once you know the eligibility requirements for part-time jobs in Canada, you can look for jobs. Finding a job as a student in Canada can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Here are some steps to help you in your job search:

1. Research Work Permit Requirements: Before you start looking for a job, make sure you understand the work permit requirements for international students in Canada. Depending on your study program and the length of your program, you may be eligible to work on or off campus.
2. Explore On-Campus Opportunities: Many Canadian universities and colleges offer on-campus job opportunities specifically for students. These can include positions in libraries, student services, research labs, or campus facilities. Check your school's career services or student employment office for job postings and application procedures.
3. Utilize Online Job Boards: There are several online job boards and websites that cater to student job seekers in Canada. Some popular platforms include Indeed, Workopolis, and Job Bank. Use keywords like "student," "part-time," or "temporary" when searching for jobs.
4. Network with Peers and Professors: Networking can be a valuable tool in finding job opportunities. Connect with your classmates, professors, and alumni to learn about potential job openings or internships. Attend career fairs and industry events to expand your network.
5. Consider Co-op or Internship Programs: Many Canadian institutions offer co-op or internship programs that allow students to gain practical work experience related to their field of study. These programs often have partnerships with employers who are specifically looking to hire students.
6. Visit Local Businesses: Take the initiative to visit local businesses in your area and inquire about job openings. Bring copies of your resume and be prepared to fill out job applications on the spot. This approach can be particularly effective for part-time positions in retail, hospitality, or food services.
7. Polish Your Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and academic achievements. Emphasize any previous work experience, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your abilities and work ethic.

Looking for reasons to study abroad? We’ll give you ten: Top 10 Reasons Why Indian Students Go Abroad To Study

Benefits of Working as Students in Canada

Before checking out the students' working hours in Canada, let’s understand why having a part-time job is beneficial. Below are some of the major benefits of working as students in Canada:

• Financial Independence: Working part-time enables students to cover some of their living expenses, reducing their financial burden and allowing them to enjoy their time in Canada without constant financial stress.
• Skill Development: Part-time work provides students with an opportunity to enhance their soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving, which are highly valued by employers worldwide.
• Networking Opportunities: Working while studying allows students to build a professional network within their field of interest, increasing their chances of securing internships or full-time positions in the future.
• Cultural Immersion: Engaging in part-time jobs exposes students to the Canadian work culture, providing a deeper understanding of the country's professional landscape and enhancing their overall cultural immersion.

Top Part-Time Jobs in Canada

Part-time job salaries can vary based on the nature of the work obtained. For students engaged in part-time work, the payment is typically around CAD 10 per hour. It's important to note that part-time wages may differ from one city to another.

Below is a list of top off-campus part-time jobs along with average salary:

Job Title	Expected Salary/Wages (CAD/hour)
Customer Service Rep	14 CAD
Cook	13-15 CAD
Clerk	13 CAD
Sales Associate	14 CAD
Teacher	20-22 CAD
Web Designer	20 CAD
Dog Walker	15 CAD
Freelancer	25 CAD
Delivery Driver	19 CAD
Merchandiser	13 CAD
Translator	21 CAD
Writer	25 CAD

Explore Boundless Opportunities: Study in Canada with GetGIS!

Canada is renowned for its high-quality education, welcoming culture, and diverse landscape, offering an enriching experience for international students. With GetGIS as your trusted companion, we will assist you in every step of the journey, from selecting the ideal university to securing your student visa.

Whether you aspire to study engineering in Toronto, computer science in Vancouver, or business in Montreal, we are here to turn your dreams into reality. Don't miss out on this chance to broaden your horizons and pave the way for a successful future. Book a free consultation now and embark on a life-changing study abroad adventure in Canada!