Working off campus can be a great opportunity for international students in Canada to gain valuable work experience while pursuing their studies. However, it’s important to understand the eligibility requirements and regulations to ensure compliance with Canadian immigration laws. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:
Eligibility Requirements: To work off campus without a work permit, you must meet the following criteria:
- Enrollment: You must be a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI).
- Program Eligibility: You must be enrolled in a post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program (or a secondary-level vocational training program in Quebec) that is at least 6 months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- Study Status: You must have started your studies.
- Social Insurance Number (SIN): You need to have a valid SIN to work in Canada.
Part-time Student: You cannot work if you are studying part-time. Exception: If you’re studying part-time in last semester of your study program and have been a full-time student in Canada up until your last semester at a DLI, you can still work off campus if you meet all the requirements mentioned above, except for being a full-time student.
Authorized Leave: If you’re on an authorized leave from your studies or switching schools and not currently studying, you’re not eligible to work off campus until you resume your studies.
Hours and Conditions for working off Campus:
- During regular school terms: Currently, you can work up to 20 hours per week. However, starting Sept 2024 semester, you can work for 24 hours per week.
- During scheduled breaks: You can work full-time, such as during summer holidays, or a fall or spring reading week, as long as you remain a full-time student before and after the break.
- Self-employed Students: If you’re self-employed, you’re responsible for tracking your hours per week and complying with study permit conditions.
How many hours is allowed during full-time Work ?
There’s no set number of hours for full-time work, but you must comply with provincial laws on overtime pay and time between shifts.
Procedures to work off campus:
- Apply for a SIN with the conditions specified on your study permit.
- If your study permit doesn’t have work conditions, request an amendment to add them before applying for a SIN.
- Keep track of your work hours and ensure compliance with study permit conditions.
If you have specific questions or doubts regarding your immigration status or working off campus in Canada, you can contact K.S Immigration for assistance. You can reach out to them through their official website, email, phone number, or visit their office in person. Be sure to provide detailed information about your situation when seeking clarification.