Working in Canada

• A valid Canada Study Permit is required
• You must be a full-time student in an academic program to work off campus.
• If you meet all the requirements, you can work off-campus for up to 24 hours a week during academic terms, and unlimited hours during your program’s scheduled breaks.
• As long as you are a full-time student both before and after the scheduled break, you can work unlimited hours during the break.
• You can’t work before you start your very first school semester.
• If you’re working unlimited hours during a scheduled break, you can also
  • take courses on a part-time or full-time basis during that break.
  • work overtime or work 2 part-time jobs.
• If you are a full-time student, you may work unlimited hours on-campus with a valid study permit.
• If you are doing volunteer or unpaid work, this may still be considered work by IRCC. It is essential to understand the meaning of work according to IRCC’s definition.
• A Canadian Immigration Medical Exam may be required if you are working with children or in health-care settings.

Some of College of the Rockies’ programs include work practicum or co-op. If you are registered in these programs, you must apply for a co-op work permit.

To be eligible for this permit:

• You must have a valid study permit
• A practicum must be an essential part of your program
• The practicum length cannot exceed 50% of the total program

Examples of programs with a work practicum are:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Practical Nursing
• Dental Assistant
• Early Childhood Education – Infant/Toddler
• Tourism Management

A post-graduation work permit (PGWP) allows you to remain in Canada and work full-time after you complete your academic program that is at least 8 months in length. PGWP is only issued once and cannot be extended.

• You have a valid study permit or had a study permit that was valid in the last 180 days, and you apply for a PGWP within 180 days of when your letter of completion first became available.
• You must have successfully completed a program at least 8 months in length and received a certificate, diploma or degree.
  • If you applied for a study permit on or after Nov 1, 2024, your program must meet a field of study requirement.
• You have studied full-time during each academic session.
  • You may study part-time only in your final semester.
  • You may take a leave authorized by College of the Rockies or had a gap in studies which is considered actively pursuing studies for less than 150 days.
• You’ve completed at least 50% of your program in class (face-to-face) in Canada.
• As of November 1, 2024, you must provide proof of language ability.

To be eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit:

• More details on PGWP eligibility details can be viewed at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/after-graduation/eligibility.html

• To obtain a Social Insurance Number, you must apply online or by visiting the Service Canada office.
• You must present your passport and study and/or work permit.
• Make sure to extend your SIN every time you receive your extended study permit or your Post-Graduation Work Permit.