Can I work as an ESL student in Canada?
Canada is an excellent country for learning the English language. Thousands of international students choose Canada for this reason. Of course, they may attend a class and leave Canada. However, some of them use ESL training to continue their studies in Canada. Regardless, you could offset some of your expenses if you could work while studying. So, can you work as an ESL student in Canada?
Taking standalone ESL courses
If you intend to attend an ESL course for less than six months, you do not need a study permit. Therefore, all you need to do is enroll in the program, travel to Canada and attend the course. To travel to Canada, you need to have proper authorization.
- US citizens may travel to Canada without a visa or eTA if they are admissible.
- If you do not need a visa to Canada, you need an eTA.
- If you need a visa, then you must apply for a TRV.
Of course, you must mention your intention when you are applying for an eTA or a TRV. Since an eTA is just a security clearance, you won’t receive a visa sticker. However, if you receive a TRV counterfoil, the category code will be SX-1. The identification means you can study in Canada without a study permit. Of course, only if the duration of your studies is less than six months.
Generally, the international ESL students who take standalone ESL courses may not work in Canada. However, you may work if you receive a work permit or if your work is exempt from a work permit.
Can international ESL students work if they hold a study permit?
If you are holding a study permit, you may work if you meet the following requirements. Of course, I have taken these from subsection 186(f) of IRPR:
A foreign national may work in Canada without a work permit, if they are a full-time student, on the campus of the university or college at which they are a full-time student, for the period for which they hold a study permit to study at that university or college.
This provision applies to ESL students who have a study permit. Consequently, you may work on the campus of the university or college only. However, if you later enter a regular program, you may work off-campus as well. Unfortunately, high school international students may not work in Canada.
Let us help!
If you intend to study in Canada, fill out the following forms. We offer services to both international ESL students and those who want to explore other subjects. Of course, you may book a consultation session with me for official advice.
If you are interested in visiting or immigrating to Canada, please complete our free assessment form.
There is no fee for this assessment. We will review your information and contact you if we identify a suitable immigration pathway or other meaningful option for you.
If you would prefer direct advice about your specific situation, you may book a consultation session. This is a paid service and includes formal immigration advice from a licensed Canadian immigration practitioner.
Al Parsai, LLM, MA, RCIC-IRB
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant
Adjunct Professor, Queen’s University Faculty of Law
Instructor, Ashton College, Immigration Consulting Program
Author of 88 Tips on Immigration to Canada and Inadmissibility to Canada for Human Rights Violations
Complete Our Free Canada Immigration Assessment Form in Your Language: