Part-Time Work Opportunities for International Students in Canada

Canada is one of the preferred destinations by international students across the globe for higher education. Besides offering world-class education and state-of-the-art educational facilities and infrastructure, a part-time job in Canada for international students helps students cover living expenses and gain valuable work experience.

International students with a valid study permit in Canada are usually eligible to work part-time during their studies. The hourly part-time job salary in Canada varies from $13 to $25 and can even go up to $30 to $75 per hour, depending on the type of work and province.

The minimum part-time job salary in Canada ranges from $11.45 to $22.50 per hour, and international students can work up to 20 hours per week and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer or winter holidays.

Importance of Part-Time Work for International Students in Canada

The Canadian government has supportive policies to support international students, and the nation is known for its multicultural society and welcoming attitude. Part-time work is extremely important for international students as the income helps to supplement their income and cover living expenses.

Part-time work can help international students pay for their tuition fees and develop practical skills. It also helps them improve language proficiency and communication skills and adapt to different work cultures and environments.

Here is an overview of the highest-paying part-time jobs in Canada for students and how they must consider various factors before working part-time in Canada.

Understanding Work Rights for International Students in Canada

Suppose you are in Canada or have re-entered Canada by 30th April 2024. In that case, you are eligible for certain work permissions, provided your study permit specifies that you may work 20 hours per week off campus or full-time during regular breaks. This is according to paragraph 186(v) of the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada ("IRCC").

It has been recently announced that full-time international students already present in Canada and those who applied for a study permit by 7th December 2023, can work off-campus full-time until 30th April 2024.

Starting from 1st January 2024 until 30th April 2024, eligible students can work off-campus without requiring a work permit for more than 20 hours per week during a regular academic session if IRCC received their study permit application between 8th October 2022 and 7th December 2023.

To be eligible for off-campus work without a work permit, you must fulfill the following requirements:

You must be a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI).
You must be enrolled in a post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program or a secondary-level vocational training program (Quebec only).
Your study program (degree, diploma, or certificate) must be at least 6 months long.
You must have started your studies.
You must possess a Social Insurance Number (SIN).

If you are a part-time student at a DLI, you can work off-campus only under the following conditions:

You are studying part-time in the last semester of your program, and you do not require a full course.
You were a full-time student in your program in Canada until your last semester.

However, if you are on an authorized leave from your studies or you are switching schools and not currently studying, you are not permitted to work off-campus. You can only start working once you have returned to your studies.

What Is the Social Insurance Number That International Students Need to Work in Canada?

A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a 9-digit number that the Government of Canada gives you, after which you shall be eligible to work in Canada.

If you want to apply for SIN, you must meet one of the following conditions that are printed on your study permit:

You may work 20 hours per week off campus or full-time during regular breaks if meeting the criteria outlined in paragraph 186(v) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
You may accept employment on or off campus if meeting eligibility criteria, per paragraph R186(f), (v), or (w), and must cease working if you no longer meet these criteria.

If there are no work conditions on your study permit, then you can:

Ask to have these conditions added (without any fee) if you're eligible to work off campus.
Request an amendment to your study permit before applying for a SIN.

Overview of the Work Hours Allowed during Semester and Vacation Periods

During regular academic terms or semesters, you are allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week. You can divide these hours between multiple jobs, provided you adhere to the conditions specified in your study permit.

If you wish to work more than 20 hours per week off campus, you must consider the following conditions:

If your study permit application was received on or before 7th October 2022.
If your study permit application was received between 8th October 2022 – 7th December 2023.
If your application for a study permit extension was received after 7th December 2023.

During scheduled breaks in the academic year, you have the opportunity to work full-time. You can even work overtime or work two part-time jobs that exceed the standard weekly hours.

However, for this, you must be a full-time student both before and after the break. You are not allowed to work during a break that precedes your very first school semester. If your program does not have scheduled breaks, you can only work up to 20 hours per week.

Importance of Adhering to Visa Regulations

Certain individuals are not eligible to work off campus without a work permit under the following circumstances:

Your study permit states that you are not allowed to work off-campus while studying.
You are enrolled in an English or French as a second language (ESL/FSL) program.
You are only taking general interest courses.
You are only taking courses required for admission into a full-time program.
You no longer meet all the requirements for off-campus work.

If any of these situations apply to you, you must apply for a work permit.

Working beyond 20 hours per week violates the conditions of your study permit. Such violations could result in the denial of future study or work permit applications and may lead to your departure from the country.

Benefits of Part-Time Work for International Students in Canada

Let us look at some of the key advantages of working part-time for international students in Canada:

1. Financial Support for Living Expenses and Tuition Fees

From 1st January 2024 onwards, international students applying for study permits in Canada must show financial resources totaling CA$ 20,635, in addition to covering their first-year tuition fees and travel expenses. The expenses regarding education in Canada vary depending on factors such as the academic program, institution, and geographic location.

International students face annual tuition costs averaging CA$ 36,100, while the estimated living expenses for university students amount to approximately CA$ 15,000 annually. Part-time employment offers students increased flexibility to manage their finances and helps them handle their living and education costs in Canada.

2. Gaining Valuable Work Experience and Skills

Working part-time in Canada helps international students acquire valuable work experience and skills, which eventually helps them gain practical experience in their field of study. It makes students more competitive in the part-time job in Canada for international students market, develops soft skills, and allows students to explore different career paths and industries.

3. Building a Professional Network in Canada

Working part-time allows students to build professional networks within their industry and connect with influential employers. These networks are invaluable for career advancement and job opportunities after students complete their graduation.

Criteria for Selecting a Part-Time Job in Canada for International Students

Consider the following factors before selecting part-time jobs in Canada:

1. Flexibility and Alignment with a Study Schedule

When selecting part-time jobs in Canada for students, they must look for opportunities that help them balance work commitments with academic responsibilities. There should not be any undue strain, and students should be able to manage their time efficiently, minimizing conflicts between work and study commitments.

2. Relevance to Future Career Goals

International students in Canada considering part-time job opportunities should choose jobs that match their career paths so that they can gain valuable practical experience, develop industry-specific skills, and build a professional network within their field of interest.

3. Wage Considerations and Job Stability

Considering the pay scale and job stability is crucial as it will help meet living expenses and other financial obligations. It also offers consistent long-term employment prospects and job security, which leads to students' peace of mind.

Popular Part-Time Work Opportunities

1. On-Campus Employment

Job Roles and Responsibilities

If you are looking for part-time jobs in Canada for international students close to your university, you must consider working directly on campus.

International students can gain convenience and develop a deeper involvement within the student community by working on campus. International students can earn at least the minimum part-time job salary in Canada, which ranges between $11.45 and $16 per hour across the country.

There are no limitations on the number of hours international students can work on campus, as per the guidelines set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

However, during academic terms, international students are restricted to working 20 hours per week off-campus, with the option to work full-time during breaks. Working before the program's commencement is not permitted.

International students are eligible to work on campus without a permit if they meet the following criteria:

Enrollment in a full-time post-secondary program
Possession of a valid study visa
Acquisition of a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

Job openings for on-campus positions are typically advertised on bulletin boards across colleges and universities, as well as on various online platforms.

The range of on-campus part-time jobs in Canada for international students includes:

Roles in cafes
Lifeguarding
Bookstores
Libraries
Translation services

Benefits and Challenges

Working student jobs in Canada provide financial independence, encourage savings practices, and teach valuable lessons in managing finances while living independently in a foreign country. It could be challenging to find good on-campus part-time jobs in Canada for students in the initial few days.

However, after forming connections and getting help from International Students forums within the university, they can get acquainted with the best available part-time jobs for international students in Canada.

2. Off-Campus Employment

Securing part-time employment off-campus helps international students earn higher-than-average pay rates. The hourly part-time job salary in Canada can range from $30 to $100 or more.

Some of the high-paying and best part-time jobs for students in Canada are:

Customer service representative: $14
Cook: $13-15
Clerk: $13
Sales associate: $14
Teacher: $20-22
Web designer: $20
Dog walker: $15
Freelancer: $25
Delivery driver: $19
Merchandiser: $13
Translator: $21
Writer: $25

Eligibility for Off-Campus Part-Time Work as an International Student in Canada

To work part-time off-campus as an international student in Canada, you must meet specific eligibility criteria, including:

9-digit Social Insurance Number (SIN) issued by the Government of Canada.
Enrollment in a full-time program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Participation in a post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program.
Enrollment in a program lasting at least 6 months, leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
Commencement of the academic program (working before the start of the program is not permitted).

3. Co-op and Internship Programs

As an international student studying in Canada, you have the opportunity to participate in internship programs or co-op placements. Such part-time jobs for international students in Canada offer hands-on work experience, apply theoretical knowledge in the real world, and get used to the Canadian work culture.

Many universities offer support through dedicated career services departments, so it is recommended that students consult their Designated Learning Institute (DLI) to explore resources. On the other hand, students can also find suitable employers as there are numerous alternative avenues available to international students.

Students can look for Co-op and Internship Programs by:

Utilizing university job boards
Exploring online job portals
Networking on professional platforms
Exploring careers pages on websites
Tapping into personal connections and networks

It's important to note that as an international student, you'll need a separate co-op work permit to apply for these positions. You are eligible to apply for a co-op work permit if:

You possess a valid study permit
Work experience is a mandatory component of your study program in Canada
You obtain a letter from your Designated Learning Institute (DLI)
Here are some tips for applying for internships or co-op placements in Canada:
Identify potential employers aligned with your career interests
Keep track of application deadlines
Utilize resources provided by your university, such as career services and workshops
Prepare a polished resume and cover letter tailored to each opportunity
Update and optimize your online profile to showcase your skills and experiences
Practice interview skills to make a strong impression during the selection process

Co-op and Internship Programs help international gain practical experience. However, students must balance work and studies so that they can make the most of their academic learnings, put them into practice, and get introduced to the Canadian work environment.

Tips for Balancing Work and Study

Follow these tips to balance work and study efficiently:

1. Time Management Strategies

Balancing work and study can be challenging, but by employing effective time management strategies, students can maintain productivity and success.

It is important to create a weekly schedule that outlines your classes, work hours, study sessions, and other commitments. Focus on meeting deadlines for both work and study and bifurcate larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks.

2. Seeking Support from Academic Advisors and Employers

International students can seek assistance from their academic advisors and employers by keeping them informed about their schedules and discussing academic progress and challenges.

Students can try and look for options like flexible work schedules, opportunities for work from home, or reduced hours during exam periods. Many universities offer support programs for international students, so they should not hesitate to reach out to their academic advisor and employer for assistance.

3. Maintaining a Healthy Work-Study-Life Balance

It is important for international students working part-time in Canada to identify priorities for work, study, and personal life.

Students must set boundaries, make time for self-care activities, and learn to say no when necessary. Focus on one task at a time and be realistic about achievable goals in both work and studies.

Conclusion

The best part-time jobs for students in Canada allow them to supplement their income cover living expenses, and reduce the need for loans.

Students can gain valuable work experience and develop essential skills finally immersing themselves in the Canadian workforce. It also helps students build professional networks and manage schedules effectively, thus stepping out of their comfort zones.

Exploring high-paying part-time opportunities can be a rewarding experience for international students in Canada as they can thrive both academically and professionally. It holistically prepares students for successful futures and enriches their lives in several ways.

Affiniks Study Abroad helps international students with relevant knowledge and resources regarding part-time work opportunities in Canada. The professionals help students make a well-informed choice about the best work options to apply for and make the most of the opportunity to earn income while studying in Canada.

Explore Affiniksstudyabroad.com for assistance in finding more about the best part-time jobs for students in Canada.