Many international students work part-time while studying in Canada. However, it can be hard to understand where and how long international students can work, while still following the study permit guidelines. It can also be tricky to maintain a healthy work-study-life balance.
In good news, the government of Canada has just made it easier for some international students to gain work experience. Starting in April 2026, program-specific work placements at the post-secondary level no longer require a separate co-op work permit.
Below, we’ve answered some popular questions about the new work placement rules, and shared some of our favorite strategies for keeping it all balanced.
Note: This post is provided only as information, and was last updated on April 10, 2026. For official study permit application guidance, visit the Government of Canada’s Immigration and Citizenship website.
Working While Studying in Canada FAQs
Can I Work While Studying in Canada?
Often, yes. You don’t need a separate work permit to work on or off campus if you’re enrolled full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI) and meet all eligibility requirements to work while studying. Your study permit must also include a condition which allows you to work on and/or off campus.
Do I Need to Apply for a Co-op Work Permit?
As of April 1, 2026, post-secondary international students no longer need to apply for a separate co-op work permit for work placements. This update includes co-op placements, practicums, mentorship programs and internships. If the work experience is part of the study program’s requirements, and their employer has been approved by the student’s DLI, international students may complete their co-op or internship while simply holding a study permit.
This update is effective immediately. So, even if you’re an international student in Canada with a pending co-op work permit, you’re now good to proceed with your work as long as you meet all the other eligibility criteria.
However, the rules have not changed for international students in Canadian secondary schools. These students must still apply for a co-op work permit.
How Much May International Students Work in Canada?
Currently, eligible international students may work up to 24 hours per week while classes are in session, and full time (up to 40 hours per week) during term breaks like the Christmas holidays.
International students working on campus don’t have a limit on how many hours they may work per week, as long as they continue to meet the government’s eligibility requirements for their student visa.
Work-Life Balance while Studying in Canada
If you’re eligible to work while studying in Canada, here are some tips on how to balance it all.
Take a Job with Defined Hours
With set hours, you know what you’ll be working on and when, which can make your week more predictable. It’s also helpful to find a job you can mentally leave at the end of your shift, too. This can help you focus on your current task, rather than always mentally juggling work and school.
Monitor your Stress Levels
Balancing classwork with a part-time job can be stressful! Pay attention to how you’re feeling, and adjust your work hours if you have to. Keep in mind your student visa requires you to be a student first, and work is a secondary priority; working too much can put your visa at risk.
Also, make use of student services on campus, whether you need someone to talk to, or need to access the campus food bank. Many services are included with your tuition fees, or at low cost because you’re a student. We’ve all gone through rough times, and seeking support can prevent a small challenge from becoming a big one.
Being an international student is an incredible adventure, but it can also be stressful. Check out our top mental health strategies for students.
Use a Calendar Tool
Life’s going to get busy, so it’s smart to keep track of your time. Also, include all your personal appointments in the calendar, so you never double-book yourself.
An electronic calendar is great for a few reasons:
- If you lose your paper calendar, it’s gone. No backups.
- An e-version can be synced across devices (phone, smart watch, computer, etc.)
- You can receive alerts across all your devices.
Plan for Leisure
Between your job and keeping up with coursework, having fun can become an afterthought. However, leisure is required for good mental health. Even if it seems counterintuitive, taking time off will mean you’re better rested, which can help you perform better in class. Try scheduling in “mandatory” leisure time, whether it’s a trip to the library, a movie with friends, or laps in the campus pool. Often, if it’s in your calendar, you’ll find you make time for it.
Plan for Study
Similarly, use your calendar tool to schedule meaningful study time, especially around exam season. Otherwise, leisure time or work time might interrupt your study time. Remember: the calendar is your buddy.
Plan for Your Career
This isn’t always possible, but try to find a part-time job that will support you today and help you build skills you can apply to your future career. Even student jobs can help you build a strong resume. Sometimes, it’s worth taking a job that doesn’t pay as well if it aligns with your field of study. The connections you build in your field can help you progress to a more senior role, whether it’s on campus or in the private sector.
We hope this blog has helped you understand more about international students’ working hours in Canada, and some ways to successfully add part-time work into your life as a student.
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