Co-op Work Permit resources

Student having conversation with advisor.

As an international student in a co-op program, getting your Co-op Work Permit is a necessary step to working in Canada. You will also need to confirm your permit details with us in order to be eligible for work term credit for Canadian work terms.

We are here to help. The resources below can help answer any questions you may have about obtaining your work permit. Our staff will also be in touch to support you throughout the process.

Also, the University has a dedicated team of Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) that provide free and confidential services to Waterloo students. Learn more about the RCIC team and available resources.

Applying for your Co-op Work Permit

If you are in a co-op program, you must have your Co-op Work Permit before your first work term in Canada. It is essential to maintain your Co-op Work Permit status during all your co-op work terms.

Once you start in a co-op program, our team will be in touch to provide key information, no matter when your first work term will be. You will need to confirm your Co-op Work Permit details in WaterlooWorks once you receive it, so that we know you are eligible to work in Canada. Please note:

  • You should apply for the Co-op Work Permit while you apply for your study permit. This can be done in one application. Having both permits issued when you begin your studies will ensure that you can start your work terms as scheduled.
  • If you are unable to apply for your Co-op Work Permit before coming to Canada, please apply as soon as possible after you arrive. Processing times can be as long as six months. The current processing times are available on the Government of Canada website.
  • Once you receive your Co-op Work Permit, submit a form on WaterlooWorks confirming key details, including the expiry date. Without proof of your work permit, you will not be authorized for work terms in Canada.
    1. Login to WaterlooWorks
    2. From your dashboard select 'Submit a Form'
    3. Category: International
    4. Sub-category: Co-op Work Permit Details (5048)
    5. Complete required fields and submit form
  • We will send you periodic reminders until we receive a completed form confirming you’ve received your permit, and that you’re eligible to work in Canada. We do not require a copy of your physical permit.
  • Important note: An issued Co-op Work Permit may expire before the end of your studies.  In that case, you will need to apply for an extension – and you will need to submit a new Co-op Work Permit form in WaterlooWorks once you receive it! Follow the same steps noted above to submit your form.
  • Ensuring that you have the necessary permit to legally work in Canada is your responsibility. We will be in touch regularly to make sure you have all the information you need to obtain your co-op work permit on time. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our immigration consultants for support immediately.

Frequently asked questions about Co-op Work Permits

I am in Canada, but do not have my Co-op Work Permit. How do I apply?

Do I need a Co-op Work Permit to work outside of Canada?

No, a Co-op Work Permit is only needed to work inside of Canada. However, we encourage all international visa students to obtain their Co-op Work Permit along with their study permit so that they can consider Canadian co-op opportunities.

Note: Working in other countries will require authorization based on that country’s immigration laws. Learn more about working outside of Canada.

Can I work while waiting for my Co-op Work Permit?

According to the condition of your study permit, you may be eligible to legally work while waiting for your Co-op Work Permit. However, this work does not count for co-op credit. Your co-op work term can only officially begin once you are on a scheduled co-op work term (not a study term) and you have a valid Co-op Work Permit.

If your Co-op Work Permit application is still in process at the start of your work term, please contact an Immigration Consultant to help assess your situation.

What happens if my Co-op Work Permit does not arrive in time for the start of my work term?

If you are concerned about receiving your Co-op Work Permit in time, please contact your Co-op Advisor to let them know your status. Our team may be able to work with you and your employer to delay your work term start date while you wait for your Co-op Work Permit. You should also contact an Immigration Consultant to help assess your situation.

If I work during my study term can it count toward my co-op credit?

No. Although the conditions of your study term may allow you to legally work in Canada during your study term, this work does not count for co-op credit. Your co-op work term can only officially begin once you are on a scheduled co-op work term (not a study term) and have a valid Co-op Work Permit.

Please contact the Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant team for more information.

I have a Co-op Work Permit, but it is expiring during my work term. What do I do?

You will need to apply for an extension if you have any work terms remaining beyond the expiry date (or if your permit will expire during your work term). If you apply for an extension before your current study permit and co-op permit expires, you will have maintained status. Maintained status allows you to continue studying and/or working at your co-op job in Canada until a decision is made on your application, as long as you remain in Canada. Please contact an Immigration Consultant to help assess your situation and notify your co-op advisor.

Do I need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) if I have a Co-op Work Permit?

I need immigration advice. Who can I contact?

Have more questions?

Your co-op advisor can help you navigate any issues related to your co-op work term; for questions about your immigration status/eligibility to work in Canada, you should always reach out to our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants.