Student work permission depends on your enrolment, program and permit conditions. Eligible students may work up to 24 hours a week off campus during regular academic sessions, with different rules for scheduled breaks. Required placements have their own conditions. Since April 1, 2026, eligible post-secondary students no longer need a separate co-op work permit for those placements. Keep records that distinguish ordinary employment from program-required work.
What to plan
- Check off-campus and on-campus work eligibility.
- Plan hours across all jobs and self-employment.
- Confirm scheduled breaks with the institution.
- Check required placement eligibility and school approval.
The process, step by step.
This is the typical sequence to discuss when agreeing your service. The exact requirements depend on your circumstances and current instructions.
Check your student eligibility
Review the program, enrolment level and study permit conditions to establish which student work rules apply to you.
Separate each type of work
Distinguish ordinary off-campus employment, on-campus work and a program-required placement; obtain your institution’s placement confirmation where relevant.
Confirm documents and permission
Check Social Insurance Number eligibility, any medical restrictions and whether your particular placement still requires a separate permit.
Track hours and study changes
Keep accurate employment records and reassess permission when your enrolment, scheduled breaks, leave arrangements or completion status changes.
What to prepare
These are starting points for a discussion. The official checklist and your circumstances determine the documents required for an application.
- Study permit and enrolment letter
- Program calendar and placement requirement letter
- Work schedules and pay records
- Social Insurance Number documentation
Your questions, answered.
No. It is the combined weekly off-campus limit during regular sessions for eligible students, including relevant self-employment.
No. The exemption concerns eligible program-required placements. Check the full conditions and obtain confirmation from your institution.
Check the official guidance
Research checked 13 October 2026. Program rules, intake, fees, and processing times can change. Use the current official instructions before making a decision.