Co-op Work Permit

General information

Some academic programs include work experience as part of their curriculum.  A co-op work permit is required to complete this element of the program. It allows students to participate in work experience activities when they are deemed essential to successfully complete their program. This work experience may take many forms including field and clinical work, work placements and practicums. It includes both paid and unpaid work.  

 

You can apply for a co-op work permit if you meet all the following conditions: 

  • You have a valid study permit; 

  • You are required to work to complete your study program in Canada; AND 

  • Your Letter of Acceptance confirms all students in your program need to complete work placements to graduate.  

For the most accurate and up-to-date information about working as a co-op student or intern, please visit the IRCC website.  

 

Guides to applying for your Co-op Work Permit 

Refer to the guides below to complete your Co-op Work Permit application.  

 

Important Regulations

The following regulations apply to co-op work permits: 

  • Mandatory Permit: A co-op work permit is required before starting any co-op, internship, or placement work, regardless of duration. 

  • Employer Restriction: The permit is valid only for your current Designated Learning Institute (DLI) and cannot be transferred to another DLI. 

  • Program Limits: Work terms must not exceed 50% of the total duration of your academic program. 

  • Validity Period: The permit is only issued for the duration of the work portion of your program and cannot extend beyond your study permit's expiry date. 

  • Work Restrictions: A co-op work permit can only be used for work experience activity that is mandatory as part of your program. 

Understanding and complying with these regulations is essential to stay on track with your studies. Please visit the IRCC website for more information. 

 

Co-op Work Permit Application Process

If you did not apply for a co-op work permit when you obtained your study permit, you must apply for one before starting any internship or work placement experience.   

The documents you need to apply are: 

Passport: You must provide a digital copy of the page that shows your birth date and country of origin, and any pages with stamps, visas, or markings. Put all pages into one PDF. Please refer to “How to combine documents”. 

Digital photo:  Refer to the digital photo requirement as per temporary residence specifications 

Co-op Letter: This letter must include details of the work to be performed, and the specific number of hours per term or semester. This is found in your Letter of Acceptance.  

Proof of medical exam – E-medical (if applicable): Please refer to Medical exam requirements for temporary residents. 

 

For a copy of the document checklist, requirements, and full details on how to apply, please visit the IRCC co-op work permit webpage.  

If you are filling out IRCC paperwork and need Adobe, you can access the "How to Download and Install Adobe" guide 

The information provided above may change without notice. Please refer to the IRCC Website for the latest updates on Co-Op Work Permits. 

 

The IEC offers workshops to students that explain the co-op work permit application process and answer your questions. Please check the IEC Blackboard announcements to find out the dates and times, and to register for a workshop.  

 

Note:   

As an international student, you are personally responsible for complying with all conditions associated with your study permit and related IRCC policies & regulations. Be sure you are fully aware of what these are. For more details click here.   

 

For additional inquiries please email: [email protected]