Work-integrated learning: Permits and visas

Working in Canada 

As an international student, you may be required to complete a work placement or work-integrated learning (WIL) experience as part of your degree requirement. A co-op work permit is required for all WIL experiences in Canada that are degree requirements, regardless if they're called a co-op, internship, practicum, capstone, milestone, or applied research project; paid or unpaid, and on campus or off campus. 

For programs with direct entry into a co-op program: if the work placement requirement is included as part of your acceptance letter, you should apply for the co-op work permit along with your study permit application.  If you have not been issued a co-op work permit approval together with your study permit approval before coming to Canada, you can apply for a co-op work permit once you are in Canada. The University’s Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) recommend students to apply at least one term (4 months) in advance of their work experience.   

The dedicated team of RCICs provide free and confidential services to Waterloo students and can guide you through your co-op work permit applications. Learn more about the RCIC team and available immigration application resources. 

If your program is supported by CEE, you will need to obtain the relevant Co-op Support Letter through WaterlooWorks. If your program is not supported by CEE, you will need to ensure your proof of enrolment letter confirms the WIL requirement. If you’re unsure whether your program is supported by CEE or your department, be sure to review the listing of programs on Co-op’s Information for graduate students.   

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.