If your study permit doesn’t have work conditions on it, you can request to have these conditions added if you’re eligible to work off campus. There’s no fee for this amendment, but it must be done before applying for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) from Service Canada.

Working Off-Campus: Hours and Conditions

During Regular School Terms or Semesters

• Maximum Hours: You can work up to 20 hours per week.
• Multiple Jobs: You can work more than one job to reach the 20-hour limit as long as you comply with your study permit conditions.

During Scheduled Breaks in the School Year

• Unlimited Hours: You can work unlimited hours during breaks scheduled by your Designated Learning Institution (DLI), such as winter and summer holidays or reading weeks.
• Taking Courses: You can take courses on a part-time or full-time basis during these breaks.
• Work Conditions: You can work overtime or hold two part-time jobs without affecting your unlimited work hours during these breaks.

Eligibility for Full-Time Work During Breaks

• Student Status: You must be a full-time student before and after the break to qualify for full-time work during the break. You cannot work before starting your very first semester.

Full-Time Work Definition

• No Set Hours: There is no set number of hours per week that constitutes ‘full-time’ work. Employers must adhere to provincial laws regarding overtime pay and time between shifts.

Programs Without Scheduled Breaks

• Work Limit: You can work up to 20 hours per week.
• Consequences for Overworking: Working more than 20 hours per week violates your study permit conditions, risking your student status and future permit approvals. You may also have to leave the country.

Calculating Your Work Hours

• Responsibility: You are responsible for tracking the hours you work off campus and proving compliance with your study permit conditions.
• Definition of Hours: Hours include any time spent earning wages or commissions, even if on call.
• Compliance Proof: You must show that you’re actively pursuing your studies, not working more than 20 hours per week, and meeting other permit conditions.

Self-Employed Students

• Tracking Hours: You must track your hours and prove compliance with your study permit conditions.
• Definition of Work Hours: Hours include earning wages, being paid for services or products, or collecting commissions.

Who Can’t Work Off Campus

You cannot work off campus without a work permit if any of the following apply:

• Your study permit explicitly states you aren’t authorized to work off campus.
• You’re enrolled only in an English or French as a second language (ESL/FSL) program.
• You’re taking general interest courses.
• You’re taking courses required for acceptance into a full-time program.
• You no longer meet all requirements to work off campus.

If any of these situations apply and you wish to work while studying in Canada, you must apply for a work permit.

Ensure Compliance for a Smooth Experience

To avoid any issues, ensure you understand and comply with the conditions of your study permit regarding work. Keep thorough records of your work hours and always prioritize your studies to maintain your eligibility to work off campus. If your permit doesn’t allow for off-campus work, consider applying for a work permit to gain the necessary authorization.

If you have issues with your work/study permit or need to appeal your case, contact us!