Working Part-Time as an International Student in Canada: A Comprehensive Guide
Based to data from the Canadian Bureau for overseas Education, over 800,000 overseas students will be studying in Canada by 2022, contributing considerably to the country’s economic and cultural diversity.
Earning money while studying in Canada is critical for many international students in order to afford living expenses, tuition fees, and other costs associated with studying abroad. Part-time work can also assist overseas students obtain useful work experience, learn new skills, and establish a network of contacts in their field of study. Furthermore, working part-time can assist overseas students in integrating into Canadian society, learning about Canadian culture, and improving their language abilities.
International students with work permits
Students studying in Canada may be able to work off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during designated breaks without requiring a work permit. If an international student want to work more than 20 hours per week during the school year, they must get a work permit.
International students in Canada can get a variety of work permits, including:
Off-campus work permit: This permission allows overseas students who meet certain qualifying conditions to work off-campus while studying.
Co-op work permit: This permission is for international students who are required by their academic program to complete a co-op or internship.
Post-graduation work permit: This permission permits international students to continue working in Canada after they graduate.
Opportunities for International Students
Part-time jobs: During academic sessions, international students can work up to 20 hours per week and full-time during scheduled breaks. The minimum wage in Canada varies by province or territory and ranges from $13.60 to $16.77 per hour.
Co-op programs: Co-op programs provide students with actual work experience in their subject of study. Co-op programs are available at several Canadian institutions and colleges.
International students’ earning potential
The minimum wage in Canada: Based on the province or territory, the minimum wage in Canada ranges from $13.60 to $16.77 per hour.
Earnings for full-time versus part-time workers: While full-time workers often earn more than part-time workers, overseas students are only permitted to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during the academic year. The average pay in each province of Canada is shown below.
The average international student salary in Canada is $63,352 per year or $32.49 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $51,675 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $80,742 per year.
Tips for International Students on Increasing Earnings
International students who desire to make money while studying in Canada can profit from following a few basic suggestions.
- Time administration
- Strategies for Job Search
- Networking
Understanding Your Study Permit Conditions
Your study permit dictates the where and how much of your work opportunities while studying in Canada. Learn about the necessary alterations and their impact on your employment options.
1. On-Campus Employment Guidelines
As a full-time post-secondary student in Canada, your study permit allows on-campus work related to your university. Uncover the specifics, including the absence of the need for an additional work permit and tips for balancing work with a demanding course load.
*Key Tip:* While there’s no strict hourly limit, managing more than 20 hours a week alongside a full course load can pose challenges.
2. Off-Campus Employment Guidelines
Explore the broader spectrum of off-campus work opportunities, encompassing various employers such as restaurants, cafes, and retail stores. Discover the eligibility criteria, including full-time enrollment at a designated learning institution, program duration, and the importance of a valid study permit with specific work conditions.
*Key Requirement:* Ensure possession of a Social Insurance Number (SIN) for off-campus employment.
3. Co-op and Internship Programs
Dive into the realm of co-op and internship programs as avenues for gaining Canadian work experience and income while studying. Unearth the application process, eligibility criteria, and the imperative need for a co-op work permit.
*Pro Tip:* Plan ahead, as the co-op work permit application process can take up to four months.
4. Combining Part-Time Work and Co-op Opportunities
Upon acceptance into a co-op or internship program, create a work-study sequence to strategically plan your co-op terms. Understand the constraints during these terms and the freedom to work up to 20 hours per week during full-time study terms, aligning with regular study permit conditions.
*Important Note:* The temporary removal of the 20-hour per week limit for off-campus work until December 2023 provides added flexibility for students.
Finally budgeting is a critical component of international students’ earnings maximization. Students should develop a budget that accounts for their income and expenses, such as tuition, rent, transportation, and groceries. By keeping track of their costs, they may successfully manage their money and make informed financial decisions.
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