Part-Time Jobs in Canada for International Students

Working part-time jobs in Canada is a fantastic way for international students to manage their living expenses while gaining valuable work experience. With a valid study permit, students can work up to 24 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. Popular jobs include retail sales, food service, and tutoring, with average wages ranging from CAD 15 to CAD 20 per hour, though this can vary by province. While a degree isn’t required for most part-time roles, strong communication skills are essential. The income from these jobs can significantly offset the cost of living, which varies by city but typically averages between CAD 1,500 and CAD 2,500 per month for essentials.

In this blog, we will explore the top part-time jobs, average salaries, and the financial benefits of working while studying in Canada. This opportunity allows students to build their resumes, network, and immerse themselves in Canadian culture, making their academic journey more financially sustainable and personally enriching.

Country	Canada
Maximum Working Hours	24 hours/week during academic session; unlimited during scheduled breaks
Average Hourly Wages	CAD 15 – CAD 25 per hour (varies by province and job)
Tax Free Income	Up to CAD 15,000 to CAD 15,705 (Basic Personal Amount) per year
Polpura part-time jobs	Retail Sales Associate, Food Service Worker (barista, server), Tutor, On-Campus Jobs (e.g., library assistant), Freelancer (e.g., content writer, web designer)

Why do Part-Time Jobs in Canada?

For an international student, taking a part-time job in Canada is a smart choice for both financial and personal reasons. It’s not just about earning money; it’s a way to integrate into Canadian life and set yourself up for future success.

• The average cost of living for an international student in Canada ranges from CAD 1,500 to CAD 2,500 per month, depending on the city. By working part-time, you can earn between CAD 1,200 to CAD 1,600 a month on average, which can cover a significant portion of your living expenses.
• Earning your own money reduces the financial burden on your family back home and gives you a sense of personal responsibility and independence.
• Having a part-time job and a Canadian bank account can help you begin building a credit history, which is essential for future financial activities like renting an apartment or getting a phone plan.
• Canadian employers highly value local work experience. A part-time job gives you a chance to apply your academic skills in a real-world setting and develop a professional resume.
• You will hone key transferable skills such as time management, communication, and problem-solving, all of which are crucial for any career.
• Part-time jobs are a great way to meet Canadians and other international students, build professional connections, and expand your social circle, which can lead to future job opportunities.

Rules for Part-Time Jobs in Canada

Working part-time in Canada as an international student is subject to a strict set of rules and regulations set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These rules are designed to ensure that your primary focus remains on your studies while still allowing you to gain valuable work experience.

Here are the important rules you must follow:

• You can only work if your study permit explicitly states that you are eligible for off-campus employment. You do not need a separate work permit to work part-time.
• You must be enrolled as a full-time student at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Your program must be at least six months long and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
• As of late 2024, you are allowed to work a maximum of 24 hours per week off-campus. Working more than this is a violation of your study permit conditions and can lead to serious consequences, including the loss of your student status.
• You can work full-time (unlimited hours) during scheduled academic breaks, such as winter or summer holidays.
• You must obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN) from Service Canada to work in Canada. This nine-digit number is required by all employers for payroll purposes.
• There is no official limit on the number of hours you can work on-campus, though your employer may have their own restrictions. On-campus jobs do not count toward your off-campus work hour limit.
• You may be eligible to work part-time in your final academic term even if you are taking a part-time course load, as long as you were a full-time student in all previous terms. You must stop working on the day you complete your program of study.

Know and Explore the Highest-Paid Part-Time Jobs in Canada in 2025

List of Popular Part-Time Jobs in Canada for International Students

To help you quickly identify popular part-time jobs and their potential earnings, here is a table summarizing the most common roles for international students in Canada.

Job Category	Popular Part-Time Jobs	Average Salary Per Hour (CAD)
Retail & Food Service	Retail Sales Associate- Assist customers, manage sales, stock shelves	USD 15 – USD 18
	Barista / Food Service Worker- Serve food and beverages, handle cash	USD 15 – USD 20 + tips
	Cashier: Operate a cash register, manage transactions	USD 15 – USD 18
On-Campus Roles	Teaching/Research Assistant- Support professors with classes, research	USD 18 – USD 26+
	Library Assistant- Help students, manage library resources	USD 15 – USD 22
	Administrative Clerk- General office duties like data entry	USD 15 – USD 22
Specialized & Freelance	Tutor- Teach subjects you excel in to other students	USD 20 – USD 30+
	Freelancer- Writing, graphic design, web development	USD 25 – USD 50+
	Delivery Driver- Deliver food or packages for apps	USD 18 – USD 25 (including tips)

Who is Eligible for Part-time Jobs in Canada?

To be eligible for part-time jobs in Canada, an international student must meet several criteria set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These rules are designed to ensure that your primary purpose in Canada remains your studies.

Here’s a breakdown of the important eligibility requirements:

• Valid Study Permit: You must have a valid study permit that explicitly states you are authorized to work off-campus.
• Full-Time Student Status: You must be enrolled as a full-time student at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). This means your program must be at least six months long and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
• Started Your Studies: You are only eligible to begin working after your study program has officially started. You cannot work before your first semester.
• Obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN): Before you can start any paid work, you must apply for and receive a nine-digit Social Insurance Number (SIN) from Service Canada. This is a mandatory requirement for all paid employment in Canada.
• During Academic Sessions: You are allowed to work a maximum of 24 hours per week off-campus. Exceeding this limit is a violation of your permit conditions.
• Final Semester Exception: If you are in your final academic term and have been a full-time student up until that point, you may be able to work part-time even if your course load is not considered full-time.

Best Cities for Part-time Jobs in Canada

Choosing the right city in Canada as an international student is a critical decision, as it can significantly impact your academic and financial life. While major hubs like Toronto and Vancouver offer a wealth of opportunities, they also come with a higher cost of living. Conversely, smaller cities might provide a more affordable lifestyle with a different mix of job prospects.

Here are some of the best cities for international students to find part-time jobs, considering factors like job availability, cost of living, and a vibrant student community:

• Toronto, Ontario: As Canada’s largest city and economic hub, Toronto offers a massive job market with diverse opportunities in retail, hospitality, finance, and technology. While the cost of living is high, the sheer volume of jobs—especially in sectors that value bilingualism and multicultural skills—makes it a top choice for students. The average minimum wage in Ontario is also competitive, which helps.
• Vancouver, British Columbia: Known for its stunning scenery and a thriving tech and film industry, Vancouver is a popular destination. Part-time jobs are abundant in tourism, hospitality, and retail, particularly with the city’s large international population. While living costs are high, the city’s appeal as a global hub for entertainment and technology provides unique job opportunities.
• Montreal, Quebec: Montreal is a fantastic option for its lower cost of living compared to Toronto and Vancouver, combined with a vibrant and multicultural atmosphere. With a booming tech, aerospace, and creative industries sector, students can find jobs in various fields. The city’s bilingual nature (English and French) is a major advantage, and students who are fluent in both languages have a distinct edge in the job market.
• Calgary, Alberta: Calgary stands out for its high wages and lower provincial taxes. The city has a strong economy, especially in the energy, finance, and tech sectors. While the cost of living is higher than in some smaller cities, the higher average hourly wages can make it an excellent place to earn and save money.
• Ottawa, Ontario: As the nation’s capital, Ottawa offers a stable job market with opportunities in government, public administration, and tech. The city has a strong student community and a relatively manageable cost of living compared to Toronto. On-campus jobs and roles related to public services are often available, providing a professional and secure work environment.

Also Read: Part-time Jobs in Belgium in 2025

Tips to Get Part-time Jobs in Canada

Finding a part-time job in Canada is a crucial step for many international students. The job market can be competitive, so a strategic and well-prepared approach is essential. Here are some important tips to help you succeed in your job search.

• Tailor your resume: Customize your resume and cover letter for each job, using keywords from the job description.
• Keep it brief: Canadian resumes are typically one to two pages long, without personal details like photos.
• Use your school’s career center: They offer invaluable resources, from resume reviews to job fairs.
• Don’t rely on one platform: Use job boards like Indeed and the official Job Bank, as well as company websites.
• Research the company: Show your enthusiasm by learning about the company’s mission and values.
• Practice with the STAR method: Prepare to answer behavioral questions by detailing the Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
• Follow up professionally: Send a thank-you email after your interview to show appreciation and reiterate your interest.

How to Find a Part-Time Job in Canada?

Finding a part-time job in Canada as an international student requires a strategic approach. It’s not just about searching for openings but also about preparing yourself and leveraging the right resources.

• Social Insurance Number (SIN): Your first step is to apply for a SIN from Service Canada. You cannot legally work in Canada without one. You will need your valid passport and study permit to apply.
• Canadian-Style Resume: A Canadian resume is different from those in many other countries. It should be concise (one to two pages), professional, and should not include personal information like your photo, age, or marital status. Highlight your transferable skills, academic projects, and volunteer experience.
• On-Campus Opportunities: Your university or college career center is an excellent resource. They often have job boards specifically for on-campus roles like teaching assistant, research assistant, or library staff.
• In-Person Applications: For roles in retail and food service, it’s often effective to go in person. Dress professionally, have your resume ready, and ask to speak with the manager about any part-time openings.
• Practice Common Questions: Be ready to answer questions like “Tell me about yourself” and “Why do you want to work here?”
• Use the STAR Method: For behavioral questions (e.g., “Tell me about a time you worked in a team”), use the STAR method to structure your answer: describe the Situation, the Task, the Action you took, and the Result.

Also Read: Easy Part-Time Jobs in Spain to Boost Your Income

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