Canada, like many other countries, allows international students to work (part-time) while studying.
This opportunity is part of the country’s efforts to promote international education and allow students to gain valuable work experiences even in school.
Although students are allowed to work, there are limitations on the number of hours they can work.
The reason for limited work hours is to ensure that students prioritize their studies which is their primary purpose of being in the country.
If you’re wondering whether students can work more than 40 hours, here’s what the rule says.
The short answer is yes. International students in Canada can work more than 40 hours per week but only during scheduled academic breaks, like summer or winter holidays.
During the academic term, students are limited to 20 hours per week for off-campus work.
This means you cannot work up to or more than 40 hours per week during regular academic sessions.
For example, a student enrolled at the University of Toronto can take up full-time employment during the summer break and work more than 40 hours but once school resumes, the student must reduce their hours to 20 hours (currently 24) per week.
Maximum working hours in Canada for international students
According to Canadian immigration regulations, international students with a valid study permit can work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, like winter and summer holidays.
In other words, they can work more than 20 hours per week during these breaks, including working more than 40 hours per week.
If you are not on break, you can only work for 20 hours (now increased to 24 hours) per week but once there is a break, like during winter or summer holidays, you can work full-time.
Conditions where international students can work more than 20 hours per week during regular academic term.
There are some exceptions where international students are allowed to work more than 20 hours per week during the academic sessions.
These exceptions include:
- If you are on co-op or internship programs that are approved by your educational institution and included in the curriculum.
- If you are in programs that require work as part of the degree requirements.
- If you are a student with a valid off-campus work permit and are in your last semester, you can be allowed under certain conditions, to work full-time until your study program ends.
Rules for international students working in Canada
First, on the list of rules, you need a permit to work in Canada as a student.
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You can’t work without a valid permit
If you enter Canada with a work visa, you’ll be allowed to work as long as your visa remains valid.
This is different for international students, you need more than your student visa to work as a student.
International students in Canada need a valid study permit to work on or off campus.
You do not necessarily need to get another work permit if you are on a full-time study program that lasts more than 8 months.
Your study permit is just enough to work.
However, there are conditions where you will need to obtain a specific work permit to work especially when you want to work off-campus.
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Ensure that you keep the terms of your study permit/visa
If your study permit has a work option and any other term specific to you (it is rare to have this option), you need to keep these terms and conditions as outlined in your permit to avoid any legal issues.
In addition to a valid study permit, you’re not allowed to work in Canada until your program starts.
You’re only allowed to work once your program starts.
Before you start working, read the conditions in your study permit and ensure that you follow them properly.
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You must comply with work rules for international students
If you want to avoid having any issues with immigration authorities in Canada, you must comply with the regulations regarding work hours.
Working more than the permitted hours without authorization comes with serious consequences – your study permit will be revoked or you’ll be asked to leave the country.
Once you receive your study permit, carefully review its conditions and ensure you comply with them.
If you take on a part-time job, find a balance between work and academics to avoid any negative impact on your studies.
Remember, your main reason for coming to Canada is to study—don’t let work interfere with your education.
Tips to help you balance work and studies
Juggling work and studies can be tough, but with good planning, you can manage both successfully.
Here are some easy tips to help:
- Put your studies first and plan your work hours around your academic schedule.
- Talk to your employer about your availability to avoid conflicts.
- Use time management tools to stay organized and productive.
- Take breaks and look after yourself to prevent burnout.
- If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to ask for help—you’re not alone!
Final words
As an international student in Canada, you’re allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time (over 40 hours per week) during scheduled breaks.
However, there are exceptions – for some programs and circumstances (like during the internship program), you can work more hours.
While in Canada, you must understand and comply with all your visa regulations – disobeying your visa terms has serious consequences.
Be law-abiding.
While you work, ensure you don’t skip your studies – maintain a good balance between work and studies.
Do not work when you should be studying and vice versa.