International Centre

Working in Canada

Work experience can help you prepare for your career, gain exposure to the Canadian workplace, and form a closer connection to the local community. It can also help you financially by providing you with extra money and could lead to permanent residency in Canada.

If you're an international student and you want to work in Canada, you need to follow certain regulations and depending on the type of work, you may need to apply for a work permit. Find out more information below to determine what type of work permit you may need and regulations you need to follow.

Important documents you need to work in Canada:

A Work Permit

In order to work in Canada, you will need a work permit. The type of permit depends on the type of work you want to pursue. In some cases, your study permit is enough to allow you to work in Canada, but under certain conditions. See below for more information.

What type of permit will you need?

TYPE OF WORK	TYPE OF PERMIT REQUIRED
On-campus	You do not need a work permit in order to work on campus while attending Dalhousie, as your study permit gives you permission to accept on-campus employment as long as you’re registered in full-time studies. *However, there are certain conditions you must observe to work off campus.*
Off-campus (up to 20 hours per week during regular study period)	You do not need a work permit in order to work off campus while attending Dalhousie, as your study permit gives you permission to study periods) accept off campus employment as long as you’re registered in full-time studies. *However, there are certain conditions you must observe to work off campus.*
Co-op or Internship (if the work is integral to your academic program)	Co-op work permit required
Volunteer (unpaid) or internship (if the work is *not* integral to your academic program)	Some volunteer positions and internships may be considered work by IRCC. For example, volunteering for a job that is normally performed by paid employees (photocopying, customer service, etc.) is considered work regardless of whether you are paid or not. Review the meaning of work according to the IRCC definition to decide. If your volunteer position or internship is considered work, you need to follow the relevant work regulations (e.g. on- or off-campus work conditions).
After you graduate	Post-graduation work permit required
Work for spouse or common-law partner	Spouse/partner work permit required

A Social Insurance Number (SIN)

A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a 9-digit number that you need to work in Canada, to file taxes, or to have access to government programs and benefits. You should apply for a SIN if you plan to work in Canada.