Internships in Canada: Legal FAQs for international students
Internships are a fantastic way to jumpstart your career and begin building your professional network while you’re studying abroad in Canada. But before you start applying to or accepting internship offers, you’ll want to make sure you know about Canadian internship laws and requirements and how they specifically apply to your unique needs as an international student.
Here are some common questions you might want answers to before you start seeking an internship:
Can international students participate in internship or co-op programs while abroad?
The short answer is yes – but it depends on your academic program. In Canada, working while studying abroad requires both a co-op work permit and a study permit. According to the government of Canada, in order to get a work permit, you must prove that the work experience is essential to completing your academic program. Some schools, for example, may require the completion of an internship or co-op program to be eligible for graduation. You must also prove that your internship program totals 50% or less of your study program. To ensure full legal compliance, consult with your school or an immigration specialist for any specific questions related to your study permit in Canada.
You can learn more about Canadian co-op work permits.
What legal protections exist for international students regarding unpaid internships?
In general, Canadian law prohibits unpaid internships. But there’s one big exception to this rule – student internships. So, if you’re currently enrolled in an academic program and looking for an internship, you’ll likely come across both paid and unpaid positions. Make sure you choose the right internship for your financial needs. And remember, both paid and unpaid internships in Canada are eligible for things like breaks during the workday. Before accepting an unpaid internship, it’s a good idea to look up the specific regulations in the province of your school.
What about paid internships?
In general, paid student interns in Canada are subject to the same provincial labor laws and rights as other workers. This includes rights surrounding minimum wage, overtime pay and workplace safety. Again, it’s a good idea to look up specific labor laws regarding internships in the province of your school.
For students seeking out or currently working a paid internship, it’s a good idea to open a Canadian bank account so you can be paid via direct deposit (which is the norm for most employers) and manage the money you make. Some banks, like TD Bank Canada*, even offer specific programs and incentives for international students.
Keep up to date with legal requirements
Knowing your legal rights and requirements as an international student is key to finding and succeeding at your next internship or co-op. So make sure you have the right permits, and brush up on your provincial laws if you have any questions regarding a paid or unpaid role. Remember, internships are an incredible opportunity to gain experience and connections in your academic field. So your efforts will be worth it, paid or not. Happy interning!
*MPOWER has referral agreements with TD Bank and may earn referral fees from this relationship.
