Canada Student Work Permit: Steps to Obtain It

International students in Canada may be interested in getting a job while studying in the country to help support their living expenses. However, it is important to note that not all international students are allowed to work while studying in Canada. Students who wish to work while studying in Canada must first obtain a study permit that explicitly allows them to work on and off campus.

Foreign students may apply for a Canada Student Work Permit to work on or off campus while studying in Canada. This work permit allows international students to acquire work experience in Canada while studying. In this guide, we will take you through the steps you need to follow to obtain a Canada student work permit, and answer frequently asked questions.

Who is eligible for a Canada Student Work Permit?

To be eligible for a Canada Student Work Permit, you must be:

– Enrolled as a full-time student in a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada
– Have a valid study permit
– Be enrolled in an academic, vocational, or professional training program that is a minimum of six months long.

DLIs are recognized by the Canadian government and are authorized to offer study programs to international students. Alternatively, you must be a student who is enrolled in an authorized vocational program that runs for a minimum of six months.

Steps to obtain a Canada Student Work Permit

Step 1 – Apply for a study permit: International students must first apply for a study permit to study in Canada before applying for a Canada Student Work Permit. Students can obtain a study permit by applying at the Canadian consulate or embassy in their home country or online.

Step 2 – Apply for a Canada Student Work Permit: To apply for a Canada student work permit, you may apply online or through a paper application. Ensure that you have scanned copies of all necessary documents before applying. The documents that are required include:

– A valid passport or travel document
– A letter of acceptance from a DLI or a letter of acceptance for a vocational program
– Proof of financial capacity to support study and living expenses in Canada
– A valid social insurance number (SIN) if applicable
– A police certificate to prove that you have no criminal record (if requested by a visa officer)
– Biometric fingerprints

Step 3 – Pay the application fee: Students must pay an application fee of CAD$155 to apply for a work permit. The fee must be paid online or in person at a Canadian embassy or consulate.

Step 4 – Wait for the application to be processed: The application process can take up to eight weeks. Students are advised to apply for a work permit at least two months before they require the work permit.

Step 5 – Receive the work permit: The Canada Student Work Permit will be issued if your application is approved. The work permit will indicate the dates you are allowed to work and the number of working hours each week.

FAQs: Canada Student Work Permit

Q. How long can I work on a Canada Student Work Permit?
A. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer holidays and winter breaks.

Q. Can I apply for a Canada Student Work Permit if I am enrolled in a part-time course?
A. No, you must be enrolled full-time in an accredited institution to apply for a Canada Student Work Permit.

Q. Can I work in any job with a Canada Student Work Permit?
A. No, students with a Canada Student Work Permit are only authorized to work in jobs that are classified as Skill type 0, A or B in the National Occupational Classification (NOC).

Q. Can I apply for a Canada Student Work Permit after I arrive in Canada?
A. Yes. However, you must ensure that you have a valid study permit and are enrolled in an accredited institution in Canada before applying.

Q. Can I renew my Canada Student Work Permit?
A. Yes. Students must submit an application to renew their work permit at least 30 days before the current work permit expires.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Canada Student Work Permit is an excellent way for international students to work and gain Canadian work experience while studying in the country. Students should ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria and follow the steps outlined in this guide to obtain the work permit. Remember that a Canada Student Work Permit does not automatically grant permanent residency status in Canada. For more information on the different types of work permits available to international students and how to obtain them, visit the Canadian government’s website.