Are part-time jobs allowed during my studies in Canada, and how many hours per week?
Yes, if you are enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution, you can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic terms, combined across multiple employers. During scheduled breaks like winter or summer holidays, you can work full-time, and on-campus jobs have no hour restriction at all.
If you are studying in Canada, you can work part-time as long as you are enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and meet a few basic requirements. Your work rights differ depending on whether you are working on-campus or off-campus, and whether classes are in session. Getting your Social Insurance Number (SIN) sorted early will let you start working as soon as an opportunity comes up.
Your Work Hour Limits in Canada
| Work Type | Hour Limit |
|---|---|
| Off-campus during academic terms | Up to 24 hours/week (combined across employers) |
| Off-campus during scheduled breaks | Full-time, no cap |
| On-campus (university or campus business) | No restriction on hours |
What You Need Before You Start Working
Your enrollment must be full-time in a post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program, or a secondary-level vocational program if you are studying in Quebec. You will need to get a Social Insurance Number (SIN) from Service Canada before starting any job. Check your physical study permit as well, since it must contain remarks confirming you are allowed to work off-campus.
My Advice
Confirm your study permit's work remarks and get your SIN application moving as soon as you land, so you are not losing weeks of eligible working time while your paperwork catches up.
How much can you actually earn part-time in Canada?
See how part-time work fits into your total budget and visa funds.
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