Studying in Canada offers numerous valuable benefits, particularly for those traveling from abroad. Not only do students have the opportunity to engage in educational pursuits, but they are able to work and create a sustainable lifestyle while doing it!
Before beginning your journey into employment however, there are some key aspects you should be aware of. International students without a work permit can legally work up to 20 hours per week or full-time during school holidays.
Such an opportunity is surely worth considering, so why not take the next step toward making your dreams come true?
While studying and working can be a great way to support your day-to-day life, it can also provide you with the chance to establish relationships and gain experiences that may help shape your career. Before exploring work opportunities as a student in Canada, make sure you read this article for more insight into how to work and earn an income.
Working and at the same time studying in Canada:
How to be Eligible
International students studying in Canada with a valid study permit who have been accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) do not need to obtain a work permit before they can start working.
This means that they can look for employment at any type of business or occupational establishment, both on and off campus. If choosing to work on school premises, international students are able to take up positions as research assistants or student-bodied employees; alternatively, be self-employed.
Although various job opportunities exist within the Canadian educational environment, it is important that student’s finances remain in order upon applying for the relevant study permits, ensuring money is readily available while studying without having to rely solely on foreign earn income sources.
If you want to study and work in Canada, it is important to apply for a Student Permit from Service Canada. This will let officials know that you plan on studying and working as soon as you begin your program of study.
Your original plan of working while studying may not be enough proof to validate your financial limit before traveling, but the student permit can show if you are eligible or not. In addition, applying for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) is also needed in order to work in any business establishment during your stay in the country.
If your student permit does not include a requirement needed for obtaining SIN then have it reassessed upon arrival at no cost.
It should be noted that international students enrolled at Designated Learning Institutions are unable to hold employment while they learn; likewise with programs shorter than six months including ESL or FSL courses cannot qualify either until their program has started officially by attending classes and completing required tests/assignments under instruction from their school supervisor/professor(s).
Searching For Work
Preparation
You can get qualified to work in Canada relatively easily, but the next step is getting a job. Canadian employers sometimes offer students plenty of part-time opportunities in various industries – and finding something that interests you won’t be difficult.
Before you start your search for a job or employment application process, it’s important to put together an excellent Curriculum Vitae (CV) and cover letter; these two documents serve as great tools to convince potential employers that you’re the best fit for their company.
When writing your resume, make sure it highlights all of your successes and demonstrates why you would stand out among other candidates vying for the same position; always strive to make yourself sound like an ideal candidate!
Your accompanying cover letters should also be customized specifically toward each respective role: they provide the perfect opportunity to showcase what makes you uniquely suited while citing how each requirement listed aligns with both past experiences and future goals.
If submitting online applications via email, attach both resume PDF files as well as further written documentation if necessary/directed by employer guidelines/requests.
Additionally, having two strong references from prior places of employment back home would prove extremely useful here, try incorporating individuals who are already considered experts in this field (preferably from where most recently employed).
Direct Approach
If you’re looking to find a job, direct contact with the establishment can be an effective approach. To get started, dress in corporate attire (plain trousers and shirt) and bring several copies of your resume when visiting the site.
Visit any location that you believe is a fit for your skillsets and gather important information on available opportunities while creating your first impression. Taking advantage of this method could provide more successful results than traditional methods!
How to Get a Job in Canada as an International Student
The steps below will guide you through securing a job in Canada as an international student:
- Scout for job. This can be achieved through different platforms such as Monster, Indeed, LinkedIn and lots more, and can be done from your home.
- Build your connections through different social media channels.
- Construct a well drafted resume as well as a cover letter to suit your job type.
Way of Payment
Most Canadian business establishments pay their workers by direct debit directly into their bank account, meaning employees must open an account to receive payment and provide the needed information to employers.
Co-op work permit
While studying in Canada, students do not require a separate work permit to participate in an internship or Co-op job as part of their degree program. Most educational programs include this choice as a way to finish their studies.
A step-by-step guide to obtaining a Co-op work permit
In order to obtain a Co-op work permit, you must first be in possession of a valid study permit as well as an official letter from your university or educational institution confirming that completion of work placements is mandatory for your chosen field of study.
Conclusion
If you’re aiming to study or work in Canada, it’s crucial that you understand the necessary processes and procedures. To make sure you have all the information required to reach your objectives, be sure to read through our article.