Canada Removes Co-op Work Permit Requirement for International Students

Effective April 1, 2026, post-secondary international students in Canada no longer need a co-op work permit for required placements such as co-ops, internships, and practicums. They can now utilize their study permit for these mandatory program components.

However, this change does not extend to secondary school students, who must still obtain a co-op work permit for such placements.

This modification streamlines the process by eliminating a separate application step, enabling students to access work opportunities more swiftly.

To be eligible, students must be enrolled full-time in a program lasting a minimum of six months that leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate. The placement must be compulsory and should not surpass 50% of the program duration.

It is important to note that this adjustment does not alter the existing regulations regarding regular work permissions. International students were previously permitted to work off campus without an additional work permit for up to 24 hours per week.

Unlike regular work limits, there is no weekly hour cap for mandatory placements as they are integral to the academic curriculum.