International students at Trent can gain valuable work experience while studying in Canada. Depending on your study permit and eligibility, you may be able to work on campus, off campus, or participate in program-related work placements without a separate work permit. Review the definition of work and types of work below to determine your eligibility to work in Canada.
What is considered work?
- Any activity that you are paid to do on a regular, recurring basis.
- Any activity that you are not paid to do, but provides valuable experience, such as an unpaid internship.
- Some volunteer positions, depending on job duties.
As an international student, you may be eligible to work if you have a valid study permit.
Working on- and off-campus
| On-campus work | Off-campus work | |
| Eligibility | You can work on-campus if you:
| You can work off-campus if you:
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| Hours of work (regular academic terms) |
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| Hours of work (regularly schedule breaks) |
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| Part time students | You can work off campus only if you:
| |
Co-op work permit
As of April 1, 2026, international post-secondary students no longer need a co-op work permit to participate in a mandatory work component of their study program. To be eligible for student work placements, you must have a valid study permit that includes authorization to work on campus.
If you currently have a valid co-op work permit, it will remain valid until it expires. If your studies and work placement continue beyond the expiry date of you co-op work permit, you are not required to apply for an extension. You will be able to continue your placement under the conditions of your valid study permit.
For full eligibility requirements and updates on working in Canada as an international student, visit Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When can I start working?
You cannot start working until you have begun full-time studies at Trent University and met all other eligibility requirements to work. Refer to the Academic Calendar for term start dates.
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When must I stop working?
You must stop working immediately if you no longer meet the eligibility requirements.
If you are no longer enrolled as a full-time student and take a temporary leave from studies, you are not allowed to work and cannot work during the scheduled breaks before or after your break. Learn about taking a leave from studies.
If you switch to part-time studies, you must stop working unless it's your final term and you have maintained full-time status until that point. Learn how your enrollment impacts immigration.
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What is a Social Insurance Number (SIN)?
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number that you need to work in Canada or to have access to government programs and benefits. To obtain your SIN, please visit a Service Canada Center with your proof-of-identity documents.
Income Tax Resources
As an international student studying in Canada, you are required to file a Canadian income tax return. You can learn more about Canada's income tax system on the Canada Revenue Agency website. You may also consult the resources below for guidance on filing your income tax return in Canada.
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How do I prepare and submit my taxes?
There are several businesses in Ontario that provide tax preparation services. We recommend filing your taxes with a business that has experience filing income tax for international students. Search online for tax preparation services near you.
There are also community organizations that can assist with simple tax preparations for free. You can view the listing of upcoming tax clinics on the Government of Canada website.
The immigration information on this page has been reviewed and endorsed by Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs) in compliance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations. However, this is not a legal document, and information may change without notice. Always refer to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the most up-to-date information.
Trent University cannot legally provide advice relating to income tax.