International students staying in Canada over the summer might have questions about securing employment before the fall semester starts.

To work in Canada without needing an additional work permit, international students must have work authorization included in their study permit. This authorization specifies whether they can work on campus, off campus, or both.

Navigate Summer Jobs in Canada

Canada’s Work Hour Regulations for International Students: What You Need to Know

International students should begin their job search by familiarizing themselves with the work hour regulations set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), as these rules can change throughout the year.

During the summer months, which are generally considered a “scheduled break” in the academic calendar (unless students choose or are required to take classes), IRCC permits international students to work up to 40 hours per week. However, the current policy restricts work hours to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions, with an increase to 24 hours per week starting in the fall.

This new 24-hour work limit replaces the temporary policy introduced in October 2022, which allowed international students with off-campus work authorization to work more than 20 hours per week while classes were in session. The temporary policy ended on April 30, 2024.

What Documents Are Required for Employment in Canada?

International students generally require the same documents as other job applicants in Canada, with a few additional requirements.

In addition to resumes and cover letters, which are crucial for job searching, international students may need to provide proof of their work authorization. This documentation verifies their legal eligibility to work in Canada and may be requested during the job interview or onboarding process.

Do You Need a Work Permit for Employment?

No, international students cannot work in Canada without meeting specific requirements. To be eligible for on-campus work without a work permit, they must:

Have a valid study permit or maintained status
Have commenced their studies*
Have work authorization on their study permit
Be a full-time post-secondary student at an eligible institution
Possess a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

For more details from IRCC about on-campus work, including eligible work locations and conditions, click here.

For those interested in off-campus work without a work permit, the eligibility criteria are:

Be a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI)
Be enrolled in a qualifying** study program that is at least 6 months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate
Have started their studies*
Have a SIN

According to IRCC policy, international students can only start working after their study program has begun, so they cannot work before their studies start.

Eligible programs include post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training programs, or secondary-level vocational training programs in Quebec.

What type of work can be taken up?

As long as they meet the eligibility criteria for on-campus or off-campus work (details provided below), international students can explore various employment opportunities during the summer.

For inspiration on potential job options, click here to see a list of some of the top jobs for international students in Canada from last year.