Co‑op Work Permit in Canada: Earn experience while you study in Canada

A Canadian education isn’t just about lectures and exams—it’s about getting real, hands-on experience. If your study program includes a mandatory work placement, you’ll need a Co‑op Work Permit to legally work during that term. It’s free, tied to your study permit, and unlocks the kind of experience Canadian employers (and immigration officers) look for. But not every student needs one—and applying too late can delay your future. This page breaks down who qualifies, how to apply, and what to avoid so you can gain the most from your time in Canada.

Two women sitting at a table having a professional discussion in a bright office setting.

Must-Know Facts Before You Apply

  • A Co‑op Work Permit is essential for mandatory work placements within your study program.
  • You must hold a valid study permit and a DLI program that requires work as part of your curriculum.
  • The work component must be ≤ 50% of your total program.
  • No extra fees apply—your co‑op permit is free.
  • Eligible for paid or unpaid placements, on or off campus.

What Is a Co‑op Work Permit?

A Co‑op Work Permit is a special work permit for international students—required only when your study program mandates a work placement, internship, or practicum to graduate. Unlike the standard work rights tied to a study permit, this permit grants full-time employment permission specifically for that placement.

Why It Matters

  • Allows you to build Canadian work experience while studying
  • Helps you earn credits toward graduation
  • Doesn’t require an LMIA or job offer—just a letter from your DLI confirming the mandatory placement.
  • Open permit—usually lists your college/university as the employer, but lets you work where your program allows.

Who’s Eligible?

Must meet all:

  1. Valid study permit
  2. Enrolled in a DLI program with mandatory work
  3. Placement is ≤ 50% of total program length
  4. Letter of support from academic institution
  5. Not in ESL/FSL, general-interest, or preparatory courses 

How to Apply

When applying for your initial study permit:

  • Indicate yes to co‑op work in your IRCC portal questionnaire
  • Upload program letter confirming mandatory work
  • IRCC processes study + co‑op permit together

If already in Canada or missed initial step:

  • Apply online via IRCC account with co‑op letter
  • No fee, use IMM 5710 form
  • Expect up to 6 weeks processing – apply 3–6 months in advance 

Entry point:

  • Provide your permit letter at POE—final document issued upon entry 
  • Flagpoling (border application) is no longer recommended since Dec 2024

After You Apply

  • Wait for your Co‑op and Study Permit letters via your IRCC account
  • Once inside Canada, use those letters to get the actual permits at the border
  • Apply for a SIN before starting work
  • Ensure your co‑op placement is full‑time during terms and aligns with your program 
  • The permit’s expiry typically matches your study permit 

Common Mistakes

  • Believing your study permit covers mandatory co‑op work—it doesn’t 
  • Waiting too late: co‑op permits may take 4–6 weeks—apply early 
  • Not renewing if your study permit expires—co‑op permit ends with it
  • Not securing a Co‑op/SIN before starting 

Top Tips for Success

  • Confirm eligibility and gather your co‑op support letter 6 months before placement
  • Apply online for speed and status alerts
  • Keep a copy of your entrance letter for POE
  • Register your co‑op start date on time—counselor support helps keep you compliant 

FAQ

Can I work without a co‑op permit during placement?
No. Even unpaid mandatory placements require this permit. If your program is mandatory, but you lack the permit, it’s illegal to start work students.ubc.ca.

Can I do other jobs alongside co‑op work?
Yes. Your study permit covers standard on‑ or off‑campus work (max 24 hrs/week during class terms). Your co‑op permit covers the mandatory placement—even full‑time. Always check combined hour limits.

What if my co‑op permit arrives late?
You must not start until the permit is approved/issued. Some schools allow remote placement from abroad until entry happens.

Do I need a medical exam?
Only if your role involves fields like healthcare, seniors care, or childcare. The permit will list the conditions if needed.

Can I extend my co‑op permit?
Yes. Submit extension online (or with study permit extension) before expiry—start ~3 months in advance.

Can I apply at the border?
Flagpoling to apply at the border has been widely stopped since December 2024—best to apply online.