What are the part-time rules for international students?
Most international students are eligible to work while studying in Canada. However, there are different requirements for working “on” and “off” campus. Working on campus refers to jobs located within the buildings of your university or college, while working off campus means employment anywhere in the city where your institution is situated. A student can work off campus without a work permit if they meet the following requirements:
- You are a full-time student at a designated learning institution.
- You are enrolled in a post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program, or a secondary-level vocational training program (Quebec only).
- Your study program is at least 6 months long and leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
- You have started your studies in Canada.
- You have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
Generally, international students can work off campus for up to 24 hours a week and full-time during official breaks or after completing their studies, provided they have applied for a non-student work permit. However, exceeding the specified work hours is considered a violation of study permit conditions and can result in the loss of student status, making it difficult to obtain future study or work permits.
Students can click here to check the rules in detail.
Problems faced by International students in finding a part-time job
International students often encounter three main challenges when seeking part-time work:
Unawareness of work requirements: Many students approach off-campus part-time job searches with the misconception that the process will be similar to that in their home country. For example, in Canada, employers typically prioritize transferable and soft skills, whereas in India, academic qualifications are often emphasized. This difference can confuse students about how to tailor their resumes to meet employer expectations.
Uncertainty about skill development: Another issue students face is difficulty identifying which skills they need to work in Canada and how to acquire them. As a result, they miss out on part-time job opportunities they are otherwise capable of performing.
The “Canada Experience“: The term “Canada experience” refers to work experience gained within Canada. Many employers prefer hiring students with this experience, believing it imparts specific knowledge or skills that can only be acquired through working in Canada. This preference often leaves eligible students without part-time jobs, even if they possess the necessary skills.
What skills do Canadian employers require for part time jobs?
Here are five general yet important skills that Canadian employers often look for when hiring international students for part-time jobs:
Communication skills: Effective verbal and written communication is vital for any job. Employers seek students who can express themselves clearly and professionally in diverse work environments.
Customer service: Providing excellent customer service is essential, particularly in industries like retail, hospitality, and food service. Employers look for individuals who can be patient, attentive, and empathetic while handling customer needs and complaints.
Teamwork: Employers highly value students who can collaborate well with others. The ability to work in a team and contribute to a positive work environment is crucial for most part-time jobs.
Problem-solving: Employers appreciate students who can think critically and find solutions to challenges quickly. Being able to handle unexpected situations and offer practical solutions is an important skill in any role.
Adaptability and flexibility: The ability to adapt to changing situations and handle a variety of tasks is important in part-time jobs, especially in fast-paced environments. Flexibility with work hours, shifts, and job responsibilities is often required.