International students in Canada often face strict limits on work hours while enrolled in classes. Normally, a study permit allows up to 24 hours of off-campus work per week during academic sessions. However, there are two legal ways international students can work unlimited hours during academic terms without violating Canadian immigration laws:
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Working on campus
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Freelancing for international clients
If you’re studying in Canada or planning to, understanding these work options can help you boost your income and plan your future. Let’s dive deeper.
1. Working On Campus: Unlimited Hours Allowed
Students with a valid study permit authorizing on-campus work can legally work unlimited hours on campus, even while classes are in session.
Who can hire you on campus?
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Your college or university itself
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A faculty member
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Student organizations
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A business operating on campus
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A private contractor providing services to your school
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Yourself (if you own and run a business on campus, such as a coffee shop)
What counts as on-campus work?
Any work inside your school campus qualifies. If your institution has multiple campuses, you’re usually limited to your primary campus. Exceptions exist for research or teaching assistants working on research projects at affiliated locations like hospitals or research centers.
Tip: If you’re in your final semester and studying part-time only to finish your program, you still qualify for unlimited on-campus work hours.
2. Freelancing for Foreign Clients: No Hour Limit
International students in Canada can freelance for international clients without hourly limits because this work does not enter the Canadian labor market.
However, to qualify:
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You must work as an independent contractor.
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Your clients must be outside Canada, with no financial ties to Canada (no CRA number or Canadian business address).
Tax Note: Even though the income is foreign-sourced, most international students are considered Canadian tax residents, so you must report this income on your Canadian tax return and may need to pay CPP contributions.
Other Important Rules for Student Work Authorization
To keep your work authorization valid, you must:
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Be enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
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Actively pursue your studies
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Have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
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Hold a valid study permit with work conditions listed
You cannot work if:
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You stop studying full-time (unless in your final part-time semester)
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Your study permit expires
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You take an unauthorized leave
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You’re in the process of switching schools without active enrollment
Does Student Work Experience Count Toward Permanent Residency (PR)?
Here’s the truth:
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Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Work done as a full-time student does NOT count.
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Express Entry CRS points: Canadian work experience gained as a full-time student does not earn CRS points.
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Federal Skilled Worker Program: Student work may count as foreign work experience for skill transferability factors.
If your ultimate goal is Permanent Residency in Canada, you need to plan beyond part-time jobs. That’s where professional guidance matters.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
Choosing the right pathway to PR in Canada is crucial. Instead of relying on risky or uncertain options like asylum claims, ICC Immigration offers structured solutions tailored to your profile.
Our Services Include:
✅ Permanent Residency Applications: We help you apply through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other suitable pathways.
✅ Work Permits & Study Permits: Explore temporary work and study options that lead to PR.
✅ Family Sponsorship: Reunite with loved ones through sponsorship programs.
✅ Expert Legal Advice: Get professional guidance to avoid mistakes and maximize approval chances.
Why choose us?
Because we offer clarity, security, and success. Instead of uncertainty, we give you a clear PR roadmap—whether you are already in Canada or planning to come.
Take Control of Your Future Today!
Your journey to unlimited opportunities in Canada doesn’t end with your study permit. Let ICC Immigration guide you toward stable PR pathways, so you can focus on your studies and career without stress.
📞 Contact ICC Immigration today and start building your future in Canada!