Studying in Canada offers numerous valuable advantages, especially for international students. Not only do they have the opportunity to pursue education, but they can also work and build a sustainable lifestyle concurrently.
However, before embarking on your employment journey, it’s important to be aware of certain key aspects. International students who do not possess a work permit are allowed to work legally for up to 20 hours per week, or full-time during school holidays.
This opportunity is certainly worth considering, so why not take the next step towards realizing your dreams?
Engaging in both studying and working can be a fantastic way to support your day-to-day life, while also providing opportunities to establish relationships and gain experiences that can shape your future career. Before delving into work opportunities as a student in Canada, make sure to read this article for more insights on how to work and earn an income.
Working and studying simultaneously in Canada:
How to be Eligible
International students studying in Canada with a valid study permit and acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) can start working without the need for a separate work permit.
This means they have the opportunity to seek employment in various businesses and establishments, both on and off campus. If they choose to work on campus, international students can take up roles as research assistants, student employees, or even be self-employed.
While there are job opportunities within the Canadian educational system, it’s crucial for students to maintain their financial stability by ensuring they have sufficient funds while studying, without relying solely on income from foreign sources.
If you plan to study and work in Canada, it’s important to apply for a Student Permit from Service Canada. This informs officials of your intention to study and work when you commence your program.
Note that simply intending to work while studying may not be sufficient evidence to demonstrate your financial capability prior to traveling. However, the student permit can serve as proof of eligibility. Additionally, you will need to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) in order to work in any business establishment during your stay in the country.
If your student permit does not indicate the requirement for obtaining a SIN, you can have it reassessed upon arrival at no cost.
It’s important to mention that international students enrolled in Designated Learning Institutions cannot work while they are in the learning phase. Similarly, programs shorter than six months, including ESL or FSL courses, do not qualify for employment until the official start of the program, which is marked by attending classes and completing required tests/assignments under the guidance of the school supervisor or professor(s).
Searching For Work
Preparation
Getting qualified to work in Canada is relatively easy, but the next step is securing a job. Canadian employers often provide students with numerous part-time opportunities across various industries, making it easy to find something that interests you.
Before you begin your job search or start the employment application process, it’s crucial to create an outstanding Curriculum Vitae (CV) and cover letter. These two documents serve as powerful tools to convince potential employers that you’re the best fit for their company.
When crafting your resume, ensure that it highlights your accomplishments and showcases why you would stand out among other candidates competing for the same position. Aim to present yourself as an ideal candidate.
Your cover letters should be tailored to each specific role. They provide an excellent opportunity to demonstrate what makes you uniquely suited for the position, while showcasing how your past experiences and future goals align with the listed requirements.
If you’re submitting online applications via email, remember to attach your resume as a PDF file, and include any additional written documentation if necessary or as requested by the employer’s guidelines.
Furthermore, having two strong references from previous employers back home would be extremely beneficial. It’s advisable to include individuals who are considered experts in your field, preferably from your most recent place of employment.
Direct Approach
If you’re seeking employment, engaging in direct contact with establishments can be an effective approach. To get started, dress professionally (in plain trousers and a shirt) and bring multiple copies of your resume when visiting the site.
Visit locations that align with your skillset and gather important information about available opportunities while making a strong first impression. Utilizing this method may yield more successful results than traditional approaches!
How to Get a Job in Canada as an International Student
The following steps will guide you in obtaining a job in Canada as an international student:
- Search for job openings. You can utilize various platforms such as Monster, Indeed, LinkedIn and more, all from the comfort of your home.
- Expand your network through different social media channels.
- Craft a well-written resume and cover letter tailored to your desired job type.
Way of Payment
The majority of Canadian businesses pay their employees through direct debit, directly into their bank accounts. This means that workers need to open a bank account to receive their payment and provide the necessary information to their employers.
Co-op work permit
While studying in Canada, students do not need a separate work permit to participate in an internship or co-op job as part of their degree program. Most educational programs offer this option as a way to enhance their studies.
A step-by-step guide to obtaining a Co-op work permit
To obtain a Co-op work permit, you need to follow these steps:
- Ensure you have a valid study permit.
- Obtain an official letter from your university or educational institution stating that completion of work placements is a mandatory requirement for your chosen field of study.
Conclusion
If you have aspirations to study or work in Canada, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the necessary processes and procedures. To ensure you have all the information you need to achieve your goals, we highly recommend reading through our article.