Canada is one of the most attractive destinations for international students, and it’s not hard to see why. With a high standard of living, top-notch universities, and excellent quality of life, Canada is a dream location for many students. In this article, we’ll be discussing the top part-time jobs available to international students in Canada, the requirements for obtaining a study permit, and the pathway to permanent residency for students.
Study Permit Requirements
Before we dive into the available job opportunities for international students in Canada, let’s first discuss the requirements for obtaining a study permit. It is a document that allows international students to study in Canada. To be eligible, students must first apply to and be accepted by a designated learning institution in Canada.
Once they’ve been accepted, they can apply for a study permit online or by paper. The application must include proof of acceptance, proof of identity, and proof of financial support. In some cases, students may also be required to provide a medical exam or a police certificate.
Once the application has been approved, the student will receive a letter of introduction that they must present to a border officer upon arrival in Canada. The border officer will then issue the permit.
Top Part-Time Jobs for International Students in Canada
Working part-time is an excellent way for international students to earn money and gain work experience while studying in Canada. Here are some of the top part-time jobs available to international students in Canada:
Teaching Assistants (TA)
Teaching Assistant positions are ideal for international students looking to immerse themselves in their field of study while gaining valuable teaching experience. TA positions are often reserved for students, and they offer flexible work hours and fair pay. On average, TAs can earn up to $23 CAD per hour. Additionally, TA positions are often located on university or college campuses, making it easy for students to save on travel costs and commuting time.
Server/Bartender/Mixologist
For international students of legal drinking age, serving or bartending is an excellent way to earn a decent income while enjoying a flexible work schedule. The average pay for this type of work is $16 CAD per hour, plus tips. The standard pre-tax tipping rate in Canada is between 15-18%, which means that students working multiple hours per week can earn up to $200-400 extra in tips alone.
Ride-Share Driver
Ride-sharing applications like Uber and Lyft are prevalent in student hotspots such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. To be eligible for this type of work, students must be at least 21 years of age and have a valid driver’s license, a dependable car, and a smartphone. The job offers complete freedom to set work hours, allowing students to work as much or as little as their schedule permits. On average, ride-share drivers can earn up to $19 CAD per hour.
Tutor
Tutoring is an excellent opportunity for international students to earn money while also gaining valuable teaching experience. Tutors can set their own prices, duties, and hours of work, allowing for maximum flexibility. On average, tutors can earn up to $30 CAD per hour.
Freelancer
Freelancing is an excellent option for international students who want to work in a particular industry or profession. Freelancers have the flexibility to set their own rates and work hours, and they can establish their name in the industry. While freelancing can be tough at first, it offers numerous professional avenues for motivated students. On average, freelancers can earn up to $23 CAD per hour.
Resources to Aid the Job Search
Canada has become a popular destination for international students seeking quality education, cultural diversity, and employment opportunities. In fact, the Canadian government has implemented policies to encourage more international students to study in Canada and eventually become permanent residents.
To help international students navigate their employment options, there are several resources available that can assist them in finding jobs. These resources include the CanadaVisa Job Search Tool, LinkedIn, Indeed, JobBank.ca, Workopolis, TalentEgg, Magnet, and LeapGrad.
As international students work through their studies, there are three key factors that they should pay close attention to pay, working conditions, and immigration considerations. It is important for international students to ensure that their wages are at least commensurate with the federal minimum wage policy, which is currently $15.55 CAD/hour. Additionally, international students should be aware of their workers’ rights and report any violations by their employers.
International students should also keep in mind the conditions they must meet to be eligible for a Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), which can further their work and potentially lead to permanent residency in Canada. These conditions include maintaining full-time status for the duration of their studies and applying for the PGWP before the expiration of their study permit.
Lastly, international students should note that work done pre-graduation as full-time students do not count towards immigration eligibility. Therefore, the PGWP is crucial for students hoping to settle permanently in Canada.
Overall, Canada offers many opportunities for international students seeking a high-quality education and a chance to build their careers. By being aware of the resources available to them and following the guidelines for obtaining a Study Permit, PGWP, and Permanent Residency, international students can take full advantage of all that Canada has to offer.
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