SFU Graduate Student Handbook

Effective September 2021 until August 2022

Working in Canada

Full-time graduate students at SFU with valid study permits may accept employment on any of our three campuses without obtaining a work permit provided they meet IRCC’s work eligibility requirements for on campus work. Study permit holders may also work off campus up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during a regularly scheduled break providing they meet IRCC’s work eligibility criteria for off campus work. Review the eligibility criteria for working on and off campus as a study permit holder.

International graduate students who are participating in a program of study with a mandatory co-op, practicum or internship are required to apply for a co-op work permit in addition to their study permit, providing they have documentation from SFU confirming the required internship/practicum/co-op as a component of their studies.

Additional information about working while studying in Canada can be found on the SFU website:

Important: If you will be working in Canada (on campus, off campus, or co-op) you will need a Social Insurance Number (SIN).

Please contact an International Student Advisor, Immigration Specialist if you have questions.

Employment opportunities can be found on our Life + Community section of our website.