Working in Canada as an International Student

Helpful tips to ensure international students are prepared for their job hunt and working in Canada.

As an international student, you might be interested in working while you study. You'll gain Canadian job experience, and help pay for your tuition, books, and living expenses. Read on to discover some tips to make your job hunt as smooth as possible.

Make sure you have the necessary immigration documents

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offers opportunities for international students to work in Canada without needing a work permit. This includes on- and off-campus work opportunities. Before you start working, make sure that your study permit authorizes you to work, and that you meet the other eligibility criteria. Unsure if you do? Check the IRCC website and speak to an international student advisor at your school.

If you are taking part in work that is related to your studies (co-op, internship, practicum, etc.), make sure that you obtain a co-op work permit!

Take advantage of on-campus supports

At SAIT, we have Career Advancement Services, which offer numerous resources for students who are job hunting. This includes an online portal with exclusive access to job postings, practice interviews, LinkedIn profile reviews, job search consulting and resumé workshops.

Have your resumé and cover letter reviewed

Make your resumé stand out! Have a specialist review your resumé and cover letter and give you feedback. Remember, Canadian resumé styles and format may differ from your home country, so it's a good idea to make sure that yours is appropriate and competitive within the local job market.

Attend career fairs at your school

At SAIT, we host a Career Fair in February. Career fairs and industry nights are a great chance to connect with potential employers from a variety of industries and practice your networking skills. Even if you aren't looking for a job right now, it never hurts to see what's out there! You can find many other events on StudyinCanada.com.

Keep a balance with your studies and personal life

Make sure to manage your time and schedule wisely so that you are not too overwhelmed with juggling your part-time job and classes. Your studies should be your top priority, but don't forget to leave yourself some time to relax and enjoy your hobbies and friends too!