Navigating work opportunities as an international student in the United States or Canada can be complex, but understanding the visa rules is essential for compliance and maximizing your experience. This guide covers the key regulations, work permit types, and opportunities available to international students in both countries. Canada New Visa Rules Guide Latest TRV Policy, Student Permit Caps & Application Essentials Latest TRV Policy, Student Permit Caps & Application Essentials.
Canada New Visa Rules 2025 International Students
F-1 Visa Overview
The F-1 visa is the most common student visa for academic studies in the United States. It allows full-time enrollment at accredited institutions and comes with specific work permissions. To qualify, students must:
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Be enrolled in an academic, vocational, or language program
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Attend a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school
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Maintain full-time student status
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Prove financial self-sufficiency
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Intend to return to their home country after studies
On-Campus Employment
F-1 students may work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required for on-campus jobs, but students must apply for a Social Security Number (SSN).
Eligible jobs include:
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University library, bookstore, or cafeteria
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Other campus-related positions
Off-Campus Employment
Off-campus work is strictly regulated. F-1 students cannot work off-campus during their first academic year. After the first year, students may apply for:
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Curricular Practical Training (CPT): For internships or work that is part of the curriculum. Requires authorization from the Designated School Official (DSO).
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Optional Practical Training (OPT): For work related to the student’s major. Requires application via Form I-765.
Off-campus work is only permitted under specific circumstances and with proper authorization.
Reporting and Compliance
Working without authorization can result in termination of your SEVIS record and immediate departure from the US. Always consult your DSO before seeking employment.
Canada New Visa Rules for International Students
Study Permit Overview
International students in Canada must hold a valid study permit. To qualify, students must:
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Be enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
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Prove financial support
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Have no criminal record
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Be in good health
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Intend to leave Canada after studies
Work While Studying
With a valid study permit, students can work:
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On-campus without a work permit
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Off-campus up to 24 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during scheduled breaks.
No separate work permit is needed for these jobs if the institution is a DLI.
Co-op and Internship Work Permits
Students in programs requiring work experience must apply for a co-op or internship work permit if the work placement is more than 50% of the program or if it is not a standard requirement. Co-op permits are not available for language or general interest courses.
Family Work Permits
Spouses or common-law partners of full-time students at eligible institutions can apply for an open work permit.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
After completing a program of at least eight months, students can apply for a PGWP, allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of their study.
Comparison Table: US vs Canada New Visa Rules for International Students
| Feature | US (F-1 Visa) | Canada (Study Permit) |
|---|---|---|
| On-Campus Work | Up to 20 hrs/week (no permit needed) | Unlimited (no permit needed) |
| Off-Campus Work | Not allowed in first year; CPT/OPT after | Up to 24 hrs/week (no permit needed) |
| Work During Breaks | Full-time allowed | Full-time allowed |
| Co-op/Internship Permit | CPT required for curriculum-integrated work | Co-op permit required if not standard |
| Family Work Rights | Limited | Spouse/partner can get open work permit |
| Post-Study Work | OPT (12-36 months) | PGWP (up to 3 years) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I work full-time as a student in the US or Canada?
In the US, you can work full-time on-campus during breaks, but not during the academic term. In Canada, you can work full-time off-campus during scheduled break.
2. Do I need a work permit for internships in the US?
Yes, you need CPT authorization for curriculum-related internships in the US.
3. Can my spouse work in Canada if I am a student?
Yes, your spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit if you are a full-time student at an eligible institution.
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