Working in Canada
As an international student, you may be required to complete a work term or work-integrated learning (WIL) experience as part of your degree requirement. As of April 1, 2026, a separate co-op work permit is no longer necessary. Instead, you can use your valid study permit, as long as it has a condition or remark which indicates you may perform on-campus work.
If your active study permit does not have a condition or remark allowing you to perform on-campus work, a dedicated team of RCICs provide free and confidential services to Waterloo students and can guide you through the process to request an amendment to your study permit. Learn more about the RCIC team and available immigration application resources.
If you want to complete an internship or other type of WIL experience in Canada that is not a requirement to graduate, including experiences as part of the thesis or MRP research, be sure to read the limitations for off-campus work hours on the Student Success Office’s Working in Canada page.
Part-time work
Full-time enrolled graduate students can pursue part-time work off-campus up to a maximum of 20 hours per week. Additionally, you can pursue on-campus employment beyond the average of 10 hours per week (but not exceeding 20 hours per week, on average). For more information on the process and conditions for off-campus, please visit the Working in Canada webpage and for on-campus employment, be sure to review the Guidelines for graduate student employment.
International Co-op and Internship: Visas and permits
If you plan to work abroad for your WIL experience, you must have a valid visa, permit and/or passport to the country of employment for the work experience. Obtaining a visa/permit for working abroad varies depending on the location. For example, if working in the United States (U.S.) you should learn more if you will need a U.S. work permit (J-1 visa). There are other U.S. visa options for graduating students that may apply for other types of WIL experiences. The International Employment Specialists within Co-operative Education can answer your questions about visas and permits to work abroad.
Co-op work abroad requirements
If you are in a CEE-supported co-op or internship program, ensure that you meet all the necessary co-op work abroad requirements to ensure you receive credit for your work term outside of Canada.
If you are in a graduate program supported by their program/department, be sure to contact your Program Coordinator to learn your program’s work abroad requirements.
Resources and supports for working outside of Canada
- CareerHub: Find work outside Canada: The Centre for Career Development’s CareerHub can help with skill building, interviews, résumés, cover letters, and more. The Find work outside Canada provides guidance and resources on legal authorizations, work search tools, and considerations during the application process.
- Getting a U.S. Work Permit workshop: The Centre for Career Development periodically hosts a workshop delivered by a U.S. immigration attorney. Search and register for the Getting a U.S. Work Permit workshop.
- Work abroad checklist (PDF): CEE provides a downloadable checklist to help you prepare for your international WIL experience.