Moving Abroad

Working Off Campus in Canada as an International Student: Hours and Rules

3 min read

In this guide
  1. Quick answer
  2. Who can work off campus without a work permit?
  3. How many hours can you work?
  4. Who cannot work off campus?
  5. Common mistakes
  6. FAQ
    1. How do I get a SIN?
    2. Can I work after graduation?
  7. Key takeaways
  8. Related guides
  9. Sources

Many international students want to work off campus in Canada to cover living costs. The rules are strict, and breaking them can affect your status. This guide explains who qualifies, how many hours you can work and what to do first, based on IRCC guidance.

Quick answer

  • You can work up to 24 hours per week off campus during regular school terms, if you meet all requirements.
  • During scheduled breaks, such as summer and winter holidays, you can work unlimited hours.
  • You need a social insurance number and the right conditions printed on your study permit.
  • You cannot work before your study program starts.

Who can work off campus without a work permit?

You must meet all of these: full-time student at a designated learning institution; program started; enrolled in a post-secondary academic, vocational or professional program (or a secondary-level vocational program in Quebec); valid study permit, or an extension applied for before it expired; program at least 6 months long leading to a degree, diploma or certificate; work conditions printed on your initial study permit; and a SIN.

If your permit lacks the work conditions, you can ask for them to be added. IRCC says there is no fee, and you must request the amendment before you can apply for a SIN.

How many hours can you work?

Situation Limit
Regular school terms Up to 24 hours per week
Scheduled breaks Unlimited hours
Program with no scheduled breaks Up to 24 hours per week

Even if your permit says 20 hours, IRCC says you can work up to 24 as long as you continue to meet the requirements. Working more than 24 hours is a violation of your study permit conditions and can cost you student status and future permits.

Who cannot work off campus?

  • Your study permit says you are not authorized to work off campus.
  • You are only in an ESL or FSL program, only general interest courses, or only courses needed for admission to a full-time program.
  • You are on authorized leave or switching schools and not studying.

Common mistakes

  • Starting a job before classes begin.
  • Not tracking hours. You are responsible for proving you are within the limit.
  • Assuming self-employment is exempt. IRCC applies the same hour tracking to self-employed students.

FAQ

How do I get a SIN?

See our guide on getting a SIN in Canada.

Can I work after graduation?

Possibly under the PGWP. Read the PGWP guide.

Key takeaways

  • Check your permit conditions first.
  • Stay within 24 hours in term time.
  • Keep a record of every hour.

Last updated: October 2026. General information, not legal advice. Confirm details with IRCC.

Sources

  • Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (canada.ca): Work off campus as an international student

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