What is a co-op work permit?

International students can only work part-time while studying. However, your study program may require you to work full-time as an integral part of your studies and enroll you in a co-op program. If this is the case, you will need a co-op work permit.

Co-op is otherwise known as internship.

When is the co-op work permit needed?

You must already have your co-op work permit before you start your full-time co-op work. Your school will be the employer named in your co-op work permit. You will only be allowed to work in a job approved by your co-op program.

It is best to apply for your co-op work permit as soon as you receive official notification from your school confirming that the co-op is required for your study program.

Who is eligible to apply for a co-op work permit?

You are eligible to apply for a co-op work permit if:

• you have a valid study permit
• work is required to complete your study program
• your co-op placement is 50% or less of your entire study program

The following study programs are not eligible:

• general interest courses
• preparatory courses for another study program
• English or French as a second language (ESL/FSL)

How long is the processing time and what are the processing fees?

Processing times vary depending on how you submit your application and where it is processed. Usually, in-Canada applications take about 3 months.

The processing fee is waived and is therefore free.

What are the key considerations in submitting an application?

The requirements might look simple on paper, but often applications are rejected because the documents submitted were inaccurate, incomplete, or non-compliant. Here are some key considerations when applying for a co-op work permit in Canada:

• When should you apply?
• What necessary documents should you submit?
• How will it conflict with your part-time job guidelines?