Part-Time Jobs in Canada for International Students 2026

If you plan to study in Canada, you can work legally while you study. The government allows you to work 24 hours per week during academic sessions. During scheduled breaks, you can work full-time. These rules apply to most international students with a valid study permit that says you can work.

Right now, part-time jobs in Canada for international students pay between CAD 17.60 and CAD 30 per hour, depending on your province and skills. Some skilled roles pay even more. However, you must follow work-hour limits. If you cross the limit, you can lose your study permit.

This blog will help you understand where to find jobs, how much you can earn, what legal rules you must follow, and how part-time work connects to PR. So, let’s get started.

Part-Time Jobs in Canada for International Students

As of 2026, you can work up to 24 hours per week during regular study sessions. Earlier, you could work only 20 hours. However, IRCC now allows 24 hours. During scheduled breaks like summer or winter holidays, you can work full-time with no time limit.

Therefore, you can earn more money now. Also, many provinces increased minimum wages in 2026. So, you can cover more living costs with part-time income. Below are average hourly wages in CAD and INR. 

Job Category	Average Pay	Approx. Pay	Job Roles
On-Campus Jobs	CAD 17.75–24.00 per hour	INR 1,178 – 1,593 per hour	Library, lab, research roles
Retail & Sales	CAD 17.60 – 20.00 per hour	INR 1,168 – 1,328 per hour	Stores hire often
Food Services	CAD 17.20 – 21.00+ per hour	INR 1,142 – 1,394+ per hour	Tips can add CAD 5–10 per hour
Tutoring	CAD 20.00 – 35.00 per hour	INR 1,328 – 2,324 per hour	High demand for Math & Science
Delivery Jobs	CAD 18.00–30.00 per hour	INR 1,195 – 1,992 per hour	Paid per delivery
Healthcare Aide	CAD 22.00–28.00 per hour	INR 1,460 – 1,859 per hour	High demand in 2026
AI Data Annotator	CAD 21.00–26.00 per hour	INR 1,394 – 1,726 per hour	Remote tech work

Disclaimer: Exchange rate used: 1 Canadian Dollar = INR 66.40. However, exchange rates change daily. Therefore, you should always check the latest CAD to INR rate before you calculate your earnings. Also, wages change by province and employer. So, your actual pay may be higher or lower depending on location and job type.

Work Rules for International Students in Canada 

You must follow the rules from IRCC if you want to do part-time jobs in Canada for international students. These rules protect your study permit. Therefore, you must understand them clearly before you start working.

First, IRCC allows you to work 24 hours per week off-campus during regular academic sessions. Hence, you must not cross this limit even by one minute. So, you must track your hours every week carefully. Here is a list of rules: 

Situation	Hours You Can Work
During regular classes (off-campus)	24 hours per week maximum
On-campus job	Unlimited hours
Scheduled breaks (summer, winter, reading week)	Full-time, no hour limit

Next, you can work unlimited hours on campus if your employer operates inside your campus. For example:

• University library
• Campus bookstore
• Research lab
• Student Services Office

Then, you can work full-time during scheduled breaks. However, you must study full-time before the break. Also, you must return to full-time study after the break.

Now, you cannot work before your program officially starts. Even if you arrive early in Canada, you must wait until your first day of classes.

In addition, you can still work 24 hours per week in your final semester if you take a part-time course load only to complete graduation requirements.

New Ontario Hiring Protections

Ontario introduced new labour laws on January 1, 2026. These laws protect you during a job search. Here is what you need to know: 

• Employers cannot require “Canadian work experience” in job ads
• Employers must show a pay range in job postings
• Employers must inform you if they use AI to screen resumes

Consequences If You Break Work Rules

IRCC shares income data with the Canada Revenue Agency. Authorities can check your work hours and income records. If you break the 24-hour rule, you can face:

• Immediate loss of student status
• Loss of Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility
• Removal order from Canada

Also, you must count self-employed work in your 24-hour weekly limit. For example:

• Food delivery work
• Ride-share driving
• Freelance online work

Therefore, you must record your work hours every week and stay within the legal limit.

How Many Hours Can International Students Work in Canada?

 IRCC sets a clear weekly work limit. You can work 24 hours per week off-campus during regular study months. Therefore, you must calculate your total hours every week before you accept extra shifts. 

Study Period	Where You Work	Maximum Hours You Can Work
Regular academic session	Off-campus	24 hours per week
Regular academic session	On-campus	No hour limit
Official school break	Off-campus	No hour limit
Official school break	On-campus	No hour limit

Now, you must understand what IRCC accepts as an official break. Your school must list the break in its academic calendar. Also, the break must last at least 7 continuous days. Single public holidays do not qualify as a break.

In addition, you can only work unlimited hours for up to 180 days in one calendar year. So, you cannot extend work periods beyond this yearly cap.

If you study in your final semester with a reduced course load to graduate, you can still work up to 24 hours per week off-campus. IRCC allows this exception in 2026.

Moreover, you must count all paid work in your weekly total. If you do delivery work, freelance online, or drive for ride-share, you must add those hours to your 24-hour limit.

Who Is Eligible to Work Part-Time on a Study Permit?

IRCC allows you to work part-time only if you meet specific legal conditions. You do not receive this right automatically. Therefore, you must check your study permit and academic status carefully before you start working. You can work off-campus without a separate work permit only if you meet all the conditions below:

• You hold a valid study permit
• Your study permit clearly states that you can work off-campus
• You study full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• Your program lasts at least 6 months
• Your program leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate
• You already started your classes
• You maintain satisfactory academic progress
• You have a valid 9-digit Social Insurance Number (SIN)

If you miss even one condition, you cannot work legally.

Important Restrictions You Must Know

You must not exceed 24 hours per week during regular study months. Even one extra hour breaks your study permit condition.

If you take authorised or unauthorised leave from studies, you must stop working immediately.

You can work unlimited hours on campus because IRCC does not count on-campus work in the 24-hour off-campus limit. However, you must still meet your school’s internal rules.

If you break work conditions, you can lose your student status. You can also lose eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit and face removal from Canada. Therefore, you must follow every condition strictly.

Do You Need a Separate Work Permit for Off-Campus Jobs?

No, you do not need a separate work permit for most off-campus jobs. IRCC places work authorisation directly on your study permit if you qualify. Therefore, your study permit usually gives you the legal right to work.

When Must You Apply for a Separate Work Permit?

However, your study permit does not cover every type of work. You must apply for another permit in these cases:

Situation	Separate Permit Required?
Mandatory co-op or internship required for graduation	Yes, Co-op Work Permit
Work after completing your studies	Yes, Post-Graduation Work Permit
Internship not required by your program (if employer demands full-time beyond allowed limit)	Yes, regular work permit

If your program requires a co-op or internship to graduate, you must apply for a Co-op Work Permit before you start that placement.

After you finish your program, you must apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit if you want to continue working.

Important Permit Condition Warning

You must read your study permit carefully. If the permit states that you cannot work off-campus, you cannot accept any off-campus job. In that case, you must request a permit correction before you begin working.

Also Read: Study in Canada Without IELTS for International Students

On-Campus vs Off-Campus Jobs in Canada

You can choose between on-campus and off-campus work while you study. Both help you earn money. However, each follows different rules and offers different benefits. Therefore, you must understand the difference before you decide. Here is a quick comparison: 

Feature	On-Campus Jobs	Off-Campus Jobs
Weekly Hour Limit	No federal limit	24 hours per week maximum
Average Pay	CAD 17.75–26.00 per hour	CAD 17.20 – 30.00+ per hour
Work Location	Inside campus	Outside campus
Networking	Academic staff	Local businesses and industry
Travel	No commute	Travel required

Now, you must know an important rule. The Canadian government does not limit on-campus hours. However, many universities set internal limits between 15 and 20 hours per week to protect your academic performance. So, you must check your university portal for internal policies.

Next, you can combine both job types. For example, you can work 10 hours on campus and still work 24 hours off-campus. On-campus hours do not reduce your 24-hour off-campus limit.

In addition, Ontario labour law updates in 2026 stop employers from asking for “Canadian work experience”. Therefore, you can access more off-campus roles even in your first year.

Moreover, IRCC clarified digital work rules in 2026. If you work online for a company outside Canada, those hours do not count toward your 24-hour off-campus limit. However, gig work inside Canada, such as ride-share or delivery work, counts toward your weekly cap.

Finally, you must think about your long-term plans. If you want Permanent Residency through Express Entry, off-campus work in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 categories can help you build eligible work experience. So, you must choose based on your goals, income needs, and academic schedule.

Top Part-Time Jobs in Canada for International Students

You can choose from many sectors under the 24-hour weekly limit. However, some roles pay much more than others. Therefore, you should focus on high-demand and skill-based work. Here are the highest roles: 

Job Role	Average Pay (CAD per hour)	Approx. Pay (INR per hour)	Why You Should Consider It
Teaching Assistant (TA)	CAD 22.00 – 32.00	INR 1,460 – 2,125	Strong academic networking
Healthcare / Nursing Aide	CAD 23.00 – 29.00	INR 1,527 – 1,925	High demand due to labour shortage
Delivery Driver	CAD 18.00 – 35.00	INR 1,195 – 2,324	Flexible timing, tip-based income
Freelancer (Web/Design)	CAD 25.00 – 45.00	INR 1,660 – 2,988	High pay for skilled digital work
Warehouse / Logistics	CAD 18.50 – 22.00	INR 1,228 – 1,460	Night shifts available
Barista/Server	CAD 17.20 – 20.00+	INR 1,142 – 1,328+	Easy entry, tip potential
Snow Removal (Seasonal)	CAD 20.00 – 28.00	INR 1,328 – 1,859	High winter earnings
Dog Walker	CAD 15.00 – 22.00	INR 996 – 1,460	Flexible and low stress

Flexible and Entry-Level Roles with Frequent Hiring

If you want your first job quickly, you can target high-turnover sectors. These roles open often because employers hire throughout the year.

• Retail associate roles in large chain stores
• Campus ambassador roles inside your university
• Administrative assistant roles under work-study programs

Disclaimer:  Hourly wages depend on province and employer. For example, Alberta’s minimum wage remains CAD 15.00 per hour, while Ontario’s and British Columbia’s exceed CAD 17.60 per hour in 2026. Exchange rates fluctuate daily. Therefore, INR conversions are rounded estimates. Tips are not guaranteed and depend on performance and workplace type.

Average Hourly Wage for Students in Canada

You earn between CAD 17.60 and CAD 30.00 per hour in most student jobs. This equals about INR 1,168 to INR 1,992 per hour using the February 2026 rate of 1 CAD = INR 66.40. If you work in entry-level roles, you usually earn near minimum wage. If you work in skilled roles like tutoring, tech support, or healthcare support, you can earn above CAD 22.00 per hour (about INR 1,460 per hour).

In high-demand or technical freelance work, you can earn up to CAD 35.00 per hour (about INR 2,324 per hour) or more. Your exact pay depends on your province, your skills, and the type of job you choose.

Minimum Wage in Canada by Province

Each Canadian province sets its own minimum wage. This is the lowest hourly pay your employer must legally give you. If you work in a federally regulated sector like banking or airlines, the federal rate applies. If your province has a higher rate than the federal wage, you must receive the higher amount. Here is the minimum wage in Canada by province.

Province	Minimum Wage (CAD/hr)	Approx. Wage (INR/hr)
Ontario	CAD 17.60	INR 1,168
British Columbia	CAD 17.85	INR 1,185
Federal (Banks, Airlines, Post)	CAD 17.75	INR 1,178
Quebec	CAD 16.10	INR 1,069
Alberta	CAD 15.00	INR 996
Nova Scotia	CAD 16.50	INR 1,095

Also Read: MBA ROI in Canada: Cost, Salary, Jobs & Payback Period

How to Find Part-Time Jobs in Canada as an International Student?

When searching for part-time jobs in Canada for international students, you must focus on verified platforms and direct networking. Many online listings stay inactive for long periods. Therefore, you should not depend only on random job ads. Employers in 2026 prefer students they meet through campus referrals or career fairs.

First, you should use your university career portal. These jobs are reliable and mostly on campus. As a result, they do not count toward your 24-hour off-campus limit. Next, you should apply through trusted national job boards for retail and service roles. If you want skilled roles that help your future PR plan, you should optimise your LinkedIn profile and apply for TEER 0–3 jobs that match your field.

Best Websites to Apply for Student Jobs in Canada

You should always apply through trusted and official websites. Verified platforms reduce scam risk and increase your chances of getting a response. In addition, these websites allow you to filter for student-friendly and part-time roles. You should create a clear profile, upload a simple resume, and apply only to active listings posted recently.

• University Career Portals such as CLNx, myCareer, and your DLI job portal
• Indeed Canada for retail, warehouse, and food service jobs
• LinkedIn for skilled and career-focused part-time roles
• Government of Canada Job Bank using the “Student” filter
• Campus Career Fairs for direct hiring and networking opportunities

How to Get a SIN Number to Work in Canada

You cannot legally work or receive a salary in Canada without a Social Insurance Number (SIN). Your study permit must clearly state “May work in Canada” or “May accept employment.” Without this remark, you cannot apply.

Service Canada processes SIN applications quickly in 2026. The process is free. You should never pay an agent for this service. Here is how to get an SIN number:

Eligibility	Valid study permit with work authorisation remark
Online Application	5–10 business days processing
In-Person Application	Immediate SIN issuance with original documents
Required Documents	Passport, study permit, proof of address
Cost	Free (100%)

Work During Semester Breaks in Canada

During scheduled breaks such as winter and summer holidays, you can work unlimited hours. You must remain a full-time student before and after the break. If you take summer classes and treat summer as an academic term, the 24-hour weekly limit still applies.

The government allows full-time work during breaks for a maximum of 180 days per calendar year. You must calculate your work period carefully to avoid violations. Here are the rules: 

• Unlimited hours only during official scheduled breaks
• Must maintain full-time status before and after break
• For summer classes 24-hour limit still applies
• Maximum 180 days of full-time break work per year

Tax Rules for International Students Working Part-Time in Canada

If you earn income in Canada, you must file a tax return. Filing is mandatory even if you earned a small amount. For the 2025 income year, you must file by April 30, 2026.

Most students earn below the basic personal amount of CAD 15,705 (approx. INR 1,042,848). This means you usually receive a refund of the deducted income tax. Filing also makes you eligible for government benefits like the GST/HST credit and the Canada Carbon Rebate, which can return CAD 400 to 600 annually (approx. INR 26,560 to 39,840). Here is what you need to know: 

Requirement	Status
Tax Filing Deadline	April 30, 2026
Filing Requirement	Mandatory if income earned
Basic Personal Amount	CAD 15,705 (approx. INR 1,042,848)
SIN Requirement	Mandatory for filing
Student Support	Free Volunteer Tax Clinics at DLIs

Also Read: Canada Fees 2025-2026: Full Tuition Guide for International Students

Can Part-Time Jobs Affect Your Student Visa Status?

Yes. Part-time jobs in Canada for international students directly affect your study permit conditions. You can work only 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions. If you work even one hour extra, you violate your permit. IRCC now cross-checks work data with the CRA, so monitoring is strict.

You must remain a full-time student. If you drop to part-time status, you must stop working. You cannot start working before your program officially begins. During scheduled breaks like summer or winter holidays, you can work unlimited hours.

If you break these rules, IRCC can cancel your study permit, refuse your PGWP, or issue a removal order. You must track your hours carefully. Gig work and freelancing also count toward your 24-hour limit.

Is Canadian Experience Required in Ontario?

No. Ontario law bans employers from asking for “Canadian work experience” in public job postings. This change protects international students applying for part-time jobs in Canada.

Under the Working for Workers Four Act (effective January 1, 2026), employers cannot reject you only because you worked outside Canada. They must assess your skills and qualifications instead of location-based experience.

For regulated professions, licensing bodies also removed mandatory Canadian experience requirements. If an employer still demands it in a job ad, they violate provincial law.

Are Employers Using AI to Screen Resumes in Canada?

Yes. Around 63% of Canadian companies use or plan to use AI in hiring. If you apply for part-time jobs in Canada for international students, assume your resume may pass through an AI system first.

In Ontario, employers must now disclose in the job posting if they use AI to screen or assess candidates. This rule became mandatory in 2026.

You should match your resume keywords exactly with the job description. Use a simple format. Avoid graphics, tables, or columns that confuse AI systems. A skills-first format improves your chances of passing automated screening.

What Are Ghost Jobs in Canada and How to Avoid Them?

Ghost jobs are roles posted without active hiring intent. Some companies post them to build a talent pool or show growth. When searching for part-time jobs in Canada for international students, you must identify these fake or inactive listings.

Ontario introduced the “Real Vacancy” rule. Employers must clarify whether a job is an active vacancy or future recruitment. If you attend an interview, the employer must provide a hiring update within 45 days.

Focus on jobs posted within the last one to two weeks. Verify listings on the official company website. Avoid postings with vague descriptions or no closing date.

Can Part-Time Jobs Help You Get PR in Canada?

Most part-time work done while studying does not count toward the one-year skilled work requirement for the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry. This rule applies even if the job is skilled.

IRCC counts only skilled work (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) gained after graduation while you hold a Post-Graduation Work Permit. Therefore, typical part-time jobs in Canada for international students do not directly add CEC points.

However, part-time work gives indirect benefits. You build Canadian references, gain local experience, and improve networking. If your employer later offers you a permanent full-time skilled job, you can gain 50 to 200 CRS points or qualify for a Provincial Nominee Program.

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Now you clearly understand how part-time jobs in Canada for international students will work in 2026. Therefore, you must follow the rules strictly. Track your weekly hours. Apply only through trusted platforms. File your taxes on time. Choose jobs that build skills for your future career. If you plan smartly, you can earn money, gain Canadian experience, and protect your visa status at the same time.

Keep learning and stay connected with the Study Abroad page on Leverage Edu for more helpful and student-friendly blogs. And if this helped you, don’t forget to share, rate, and drop a comment. Your support helps more students find the good stuff.