Lasted Updates
Get timely updates on immigration, work eligibility, and health insurance for international students.
Disclaimer
The immigration information on this page has been reviewed and endorsed by Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) or Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs) in compliance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations. However, this is not a legal document and information may change without notice. Always refer to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the most up-to-date information.
Overview
At TWU, we provide academic programs to assist you in achieving your academic goals. However, we are not authorized to determine your work eligibility in Canada.
To work in Canada under a study permit, you must meet the conditions set by IRCC for study permit holders. Please note that these requirements are mandated by IRCC, not by the school. The information on this page will help you to understand if you are eligible to work in Canada, where you may be permitted to work (on-campus vs. off-campus), and if there are any limitations on the amount of work you may do.
As a study permit holder, if you want to work while studying, you need maintain a valid study permit and full-time academic status to be able to work while studying at TWU.
It is important to note that unauthorized work is an offense in Canada! Failing to meet study permit compliance may result in your inability to continue staying in Canada, as well as loss of eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and other future IRCC applications.
- If your study permit does not have R186(F)(V), you cannot work off-campus and on-campus while studying.
- If your study permit has R186(F)(V), but you are under part-time academic status, you cannot work off-campus and on-campus while studying.
- If your study permit has R186(F)(V), but you are taking personal leaves, you cannot work off-campus and on-campus while taking personal leaves.
- If your study permit has R186(F)(V), you are full-time studying a Non-degree Program (e.g., English language courses (Listening, Writing, Speaking and Reading, TLC Programs) at TWU, you cannot work off-campus, but you might be allowed to work on-campus.
- If your study permit has R186(F)(V), you have completed a Non-degree Program (e.g., English language courses (Listening, Writing, Speaking and Reading, TLC Programs) at TWU, you cannot start working off-campus until your TWU's Bachelor's or Master's degree program begins.
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Type of work
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Required permits
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On-campus work
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You do not need a work permit to work on campus while attending TWU. If you meet the requirements, you can work unlimited hours on-campus based on your study permit.
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Off-campus work
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Many international students who are enrolled full-time in an academic program may be eligible to work off campus while attending TWU. If you meet the requirements, you can work off-campus for up to 20 hours a week during academic terms (or more during a temporary policy if you are eligible), and unlimited hours during your program’s scheduled breaks.
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Co-op placement or internships
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If work is required to complete your academic program, such as co-op, a practicum, or an internship, you need a co-op work permit, even if you can work on or off campus.
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Working after graduation
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If you want to stay in Canada and work after graduation, consider applying for the Post-Graduation Work Permit.
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Work permit for your spouse or common-law partner
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If you are an international student studying full-time with a valid study permit and your program is eligible for the PGWP, your spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit. If you are applying for the PGWP, you will need to meet additional requirements
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to have a work permit if I do volunteer or unpaid work?
In Canada, the definition of work for immigration purposes is not based on payment, but how competitive your activities are in the labour market. Volunteer positions, internships, and unpaid work might be considered work, even if you are not paid. For example, if you volunteer for a position that is normally performed by paid employees , such as photocopying or customer service, it is considered working in Canada.
If your volunteer position or internship is considered work, you must have the right work authorization before you start. Unpaid work hours are counted towards the 20 hours per week of off-campus work you may be eligible for as a full-time student.
Can I work for an employer outside Canada while I am physically in Canada?
Working for an employer located outside Canada while you are in Canada is outside the jurisdiction of IRCC.
As per the Canadian immigration regulations, long-distance work (by telephone or Internet) done by a temporary resident, such as a student whose employer is outside Canada and who gets paid from outside Canada, is not considered to be “work” in Canada.
Can I start my own business in Canada?
If you’d like to start your own business in British Columbia, please see Small Business BC for helpful resources. TWU RCICs or RISIAs are not able to provide advice on taxes or setting up a business.
If you are self-employed, be sure to track your hours of work. Be careful not to work more hours than you are authorized to.
If you still have questions related to immigration, health insurance, and life as an international student in Canada?
- Workshops and Seminars: Our workshops and seminars are conducted regularly to help international students stay informed and empowered. Link to TWU Calendar.
- Service Hub: For personalized assistance in resolving immigration-related questions, please submit your inquiries through Service Hub. Our team is here to provide specific support and help with any concerns you may have. Please note that TWU RCICs or RISIAs can only advise international students, their spouses, common-law partners, and children. We do not submit IRCC applications on behalf of international students.