As an international student, you may be eligible to work in Canada while studying. You also may be eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit once you have completed your degree. There are certain conditions that you must meet, and you may be required to apply for a work permit.
Work experience in Canada can help you prepare for and make decisions about your career, connect you with your local community and industries, introduce you to the Canadian workplace culture and provide you with extra money.
Work while you study
On-campus work
You may be eligible to work for an employer that is located on the University of Saskatchewan campus without a work permit. There are certain requirements you must meet.
Working off campus
You may be eligible to work off campus without a work permit if you meet the eligibility requirements to work off campus.
Co-ops and internships
If you are an international student and wish to participate in a co-op or internship related to your studies, you must apply for a co-op work permit.
Working after completing studies
After successfully completing a program of study of 8 months or more you may be eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. This work permit can be for a length of time up to three years allowing you to work in Canada. It is an open work permit which will allow you to work for any employer in Canada.
Spouse and partner work permit
The spouse or common-law partner of full-time international students who hold a valid study permits may apply for an open work permit.
Social Insurance Number and Individual Tax Number
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a government issued number that is legally required for all work in Canada and is issued for employment purposes only. If you are going to work in Canada, you will need to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) at Service Canada.
Students ineligible for the SIN may be able to apply for an Indivdual Tax Number (ITN). An ITN allows international students to file income tax in Canada even if they do not hold a study permit. The ITN is most appropriate for international students studying outside of Canada who are receiving scholarship payments. Applicants must submit a paper-based application through the Canada Revenue Agency. Apply for your ITN as early as possible since processing can take eight (8) weeks or more.
Volunteer Work
Before you or your spouse/common-law partner engage in volunteer activities, it is your responsibility to review the meaning of work as per Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This is because some volunteer work may be considered a type of work for which you are required to have a work permit. Therefore, it is your responsibility to always check and follow the regulations when planning to work as a volunteer.
Finding work
Learn about the Canadian workplace and get information about searching for a job.
The immigration information on this page has been reviewed and endorsed by an immigration lawyer in compliance with the Canadian Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. However, this is not a legal document and information may change without notice. Always refer to www.cic.gc.ca for the most up-to-date information, or contact ISSAC.
Getting help
Use the International Student Guide to learn about life as an international student at the U of S including immigration matters and information on working and living in Canada.
If you can't find what you need in the International Student Guide contact The International Student and Study Abroad Centre (ISSAC). We are here to help! Drop-in advising is available.