Are you considering studying in Canada in 2023? As an international student myself, I understand the importance of managing personal finances while pursuing education abroad. Beyond tuition fees, there are other essential expenses to consider, such as textbooks, housing, groceries, and transportation. That’s why I want to share valuable insights on how to find part-time work as an international student in Canada and ease the financial burden.
The great news is that international students studying at a post-secondary designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada have the opportunity to work without a separate work permit. As long as your program of study exceeds six months and leads to a professional certification, you can work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and full-time during academic breaks. This flexibility allows you to earn income and gain valuable work experience while maintaining your studies.
Even better, international students in Canada can have more than one job while studying. This opens up additional possibilities to explore various roles and industries, enhancing your skills and expanding your network.
Once you complete your program of study, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This permit allows you to work full-time in Canada and gain further work experience, which can be beneficial if you’re considering transitioning to permanent residency. The PGWP is valid for up to three years, depending on the length of your program of study, giving you ample time to establish yourself professionally and contribute to Canada’s economy.
Now, let’s discuss how to start your job hunting journey as an international student. The first step is obtaining a Social Insurance Number (SIN) from Service Canada. This unique nine-digit number is necessary for tracking your employment history, ensuring appropriate tax contributions, and monitoring your work hours. It’s essential for anyone working in Canada, regardless of citizenship or residency status.
To kickstart your job search, you’ll need to wait until your program of study has started. While waiting, use this time wisely to find suitable accommodation, review and update your resume (CV), and consider how much time you can dedicate to work while balancing your course load and well-being.
When crafting your resume, it’s essential to highlight all your strengths, skills, and experiences, including both paid and unpaid work, extracurricular activities, and volunteering engagements. This can also include any unpaid work you’ve done for a family business. Remember to exclude personal information such as age, marital status, nationality, visa status, social insurance number, or a photo.
Now, let’s explore where you can find part-time job opportunities in Canada. Many international students prefer to live on or near their campus to minimize commuting time and costs. Therefore, it’s advisable to search for jobs in proximity to your campus.
On-campus job openings are often advertised on job boards, the school’s career center or student union building, and through career fairs. Make sure to stay updated with these resources to seize any employment opportunities within your educational institution.
For off-campus job hunting, the internet is your go-to tool. Canada’s Job Bank is a reliable platform that lists part-time positions suitable for international students. Additionally, websites like LinkedIn and Indeed are popular among job seekers in Canada, offering a wide range of job listings across various industries.
Remember, finding part-time work as an international student in Canada is not just about financial support. It’s also a chance to gain valuable experience, develop essential skills, and expand your professional network. So, seize this opportunity to make the most of your educational journey.
If you’re ready to embark on this exciting chapter and need guidance or support, our team of experienced international students at Stanzar Edu is here to help. We provide personalized assistance tailored to your unique circumstances and goals, ranging from choosing the right educational program to navigating the job application.