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.
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If you wish to visit or move to Canada, please fill out our free assessment form. We will review it for free, but we will contact you only if we find an opportunity for you. Alternatively, you may book a consultation session. Consultation sessions are not free, but you will receive formal advice from a licenced practitioner.
Al Parsai, MA, DTM, RCIC
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant
Ashton College Instructor – Immigration Consulting
Author – 88 Tips on Immigration to Canada
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