Unlocking Opportunities: A Comprehensive Guide to Studying and Working in Canada

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An increasing number of students are exploring study abroad. Canada is a popular study-abroad destination. It provides ample opportunities to work, both during and after studies. However, before finalizing any plan, we advise students to explore various career options. We recommend they take a good psychometric test to finalize suitable career options. We urge them to seek career counselling to prepare a comprehensive educational roadmap. Finally, for detailed advise on travelling abroad for studies, speak to one of our study-abroad consultants. 

Work in Canada while studying 

Most international students are eligible to work while studying. There are different requirements for working on campus and off campus. “On campus” refers to all the buildings on your university or college campus. “Off-campus” means the parts of your town or city that are not part of the university or college campus. 

You can work off campus without a work permit if you meet all of these requirements:

  • You are a full-time student of a DLI.
  • You have enrolled in either a post-secondary academic, vocational or professional training program or a secondary-level program from Quebec.
  • Your study program is at least six months long and leads to a degree, diploma or certificate. 
  • You have started studying.
  • You have a social insurance number.

Co-placement

A co-op placement or program involves working as part of your program of study. You may work on or off campus. You are eligible if 

  • You have a valid study permit.
  • Working is integrated into your study program in Canada.
  • You have a letter from your DLI confirming all students in your program must complete work placements to get their degrees.
  • Your co-op or internship is 50% or less of the total program of study.

Internship

An internship provides you with on-the-job training. When you are an intern, someone in the workplace supervises you.

Students can explore opportunities for 

  • Paid collaborative projects with Canadian companies and non-profit organizations
  • Research opportunities and connections
  • Professional skills training programs
  • Career development opportunities
  • Funding for student-led eligible start-ups

Work in Canada after studies

Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)

Graduates from certain post-secondary schools can get work experience in Canada with a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). The PGWP is temporary. The length of your PGWP depends on the level and duration of your study program, as well as the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first. However, the work experience you get through the program may help support your application to become a permanent resident of Canada. 

Starting February 15, 2024, students who graduate from master’s degree programs of less than two years (8 months minimum) may be eligible for a 3-year PGWP. Starting April 6, 2023, international graduates with a recently expired or expiring PGWP will qualify for an additional or extended work permit to stay longer and gain further work experience for up to 18 months.

Express Entry

Graduates with work experience may settle in Canada permanently by applying for Express Entry. You may be eligible based on your education, skills, work experience and language abilities.

Provincial Nominee Program

Graduates may be able to settle in Canada permanently by applying for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Each province and territory has its programs and requirements. Suppose you want to live in a particular province or territory. You may be eligible for their programs based on your education, skills and work experience.