The Canada co-op work permit is applied by an international student if their study program requires them to complete a work placement.
Though it’s not a requirement for all study programs, if your curriculum requires you to complete work placement, you must apply for a co-op work permit with your study permit. When a student applies for a co-op work permit with a study permit, they have to prove that the work experience is absolutely necessary so they can complete their program.
This will allow you to work while studying in Canada. Canadian education can also prove helpful in immigrating to Canada to obtain permanent residence.
Download Free Immigration and PR Guide PDF
5 Steps to Apply for Co-op Work Permit
Follow the 5 steps provided below to learn how to apply for a co-op work permit in Canada.
1. Meet the eligibility criteria
2. Sign in on IRCC portal
3. Answer questions asked
4. Complete the application
5. Submit the application form
Step 1 – Meet the eligibility criteria
Meet all the following mentioned eligibility requirements to apply for a co-op work permit as a student:
- have a valid study permit
- you need to work to complete your study program
- you have a letter from DLI which confirms that to obtain a degree, you and other students of your program must complete work placement
- the total amount of work you would need to complete for the degree must be either 50% or less than the program
Step 2- Sign in on IRCC portal
If you already have an online account on the IRCC portal, sign in. If not, create an account. Through this IRCC account you will fill out the application form for co-op work permit as well as study permit.
Step 3- Answer questions asked
Once you are signed in, an online tool will ask you some questions regarding the purpose of your visit, when will your study program be completed, and other related circumstances. Answer these questions truthfully.
Step 4- Complete the Application
After answering the questions, you will have a personalized document checklist ready on the account. Simply upload the required documents and fill out the forms, depending on your situation.
You won’t need to pay any fee as a co-op work permit is fee-exempt.
Step 5- Submit the application form
Submit your application only after you are sure that you have completed all the forms and uploaded all the required documents.
When can I apply for a co-op work permit in Canada?
You can apply for a co-op work permit at the same time as your study permit application. Your DLI must confirm the need for a co-op work permit to complete the study program.
Is a co-op work permit different from PGWP?
Yes, co-op work permits and PGWPs are different. With a co-op work permit, you can work while studying in Canada. Whereas a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) allows you to work in Canada after graduation.
Don’t forget to fill out the form below for some insights and advice from our experts!
