Can You Work in Canada If You’re a Part-Time Student?

Sep 17, 2025 / 2 min readspscanadaahd

Know the work rules for part-time students in Canada

One of the most common questions international students ask is: “If I am studying part-time this semester, am I still eligible to work in Canada?”

The answer depends on your situation. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has strict rules on when international students can work off campus, and it’s important to understand them before starting a job. Working without meeting the requirements could affect your status in Canada.

General Eligibility to Work Off-Campus in Canada

International students may work off campus without a work permit if they meet all of the following conditions:

  • You are enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
  • Your program is at least six months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
  • You have started your studies (you cannot work before your program begins).
  • Your study permit includes a condition allowing you to work.
  • You have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).
  • You are enrolled as a full-time student in an eligible program.

Can Part-Time Students Work in Canada?

Generally, off-campus work is only for full-time students. However, there is one exception:

Part-time students may work off campus if:

  • They are in their final semester,
  • They don’t need a full course load to finish their program, and
  • They were full-time in all previous semesters of the same program in Canada.

Important: Even in this case, you can only work part-time hours off campus (not full-time).

When Part-Time Students Cannot Work

If you are studying part-time for reasons other than being in your last semester—for example, you reduced your course load earlier in your program—you are not eligible to work off campus at all. Starting a job in this situation could result in enforcement action, loss of your study status, and future immigration complications.

Key Takeaway for International Students

  • Full-time students at DLIs can generally work off campus if their study permit allows it.
  • Part-time students can only work off campus if they are in their final semester and were full-time until then.
  • This work authorization is limited to part-time work only—not full-time.
  • Always confirm the conditions listed on your study permit before accepting employment.

Get in touch with SPS Global

Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).

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