Working legally in Canada as a co-op student

Work permit important notice

As of April 1, 2026, students no longer need a co-op work permit for co-op work terms. Co-op students are eligible to complete co-op work terms provided you have a valid study permit that includes conditions that say you’re allowed to work “on campus”.  For more information, visit the IRCC website, or contact the Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant team. 

Student having conversation with advisor.

As an international student in a co-op program, your study permit enables you to work in Canada to earn co-op credits required for your degree. It is your responsibility to understand your study permit conditions and ensure that you are eligible to work in Canada for your work terms. 

We are here to help. The following resources can help answer any questions you may have about your eligibility to work. You will also receive periodic reminders throughout your academic journey to ensure that you maintain your eligibility.

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.

Eligibility for your co-op work terms

As per Immigration and Refugees Citizenship Canada (IRCC), you can legally work in Canada for co-op credit if you meet all the following conditions:

  • You have conditions printed on your initial study permit that say you’re allowed to work on campus
  • You can provide a letter from your institution that confirms your co-op work term is a requirement of your study program (you can download a Proof of Enrolment letter from Quest for this purpose)
  • You have a valid study permit or you applied to extend your study permit before it expired
  • You have full-time standing

Note: Please visit the IRCC website for a complete list and other related questions and answers.

Important details 

  • If your study permit does not contain the necessary "on campus" condition, please contact the RCIC team immediately. Without this condition, you will not be legally eligible to work in Canada for co-op credit.
  • Important note: An issued study permit may expire before the end of your studies. In that case, you will need to apply for an extension – it is essential you reapply before your initial permit expires to maintain your eligibility to work. 
  • Ensuring that you have the necessary permit to legally work in Canada is your responsibility. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the RCIC team for support.

Frequently asked questions about working legally in Canada

What should I do if I previously applied for a Co-op Work Permit?

As of April 1, 2026, you don’t need a co-op work permit for student work placements, such as co-ops or internships, as a post-secondary international student. You can withdraw your application. IRCC may also withdraw your application and send a letter explaining that the co-op work permit is no longer required.

Does my study permit allow me to work outside of Canada?

No, your study permit only impacts your studies and work terms in Canada. Working in other countries will require authorization based on that country’s immigration laws. Learn more about working outside of Canada. 

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 study permit.

Please contact the RCIC team for more information.

I have a valid study 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 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 the RCIC team to help assess your situation and notify your co-op advisor.

Do I need a Social Insurance Number (SIN)?

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 (the RCIC team).