Learn more about co-op/internship work permits
Does your program include an internship? If so, you will need a co-op/internship work permit before your internship begins.
You may be issued a work permit along with your study permit when you enter Canada. This work permit is most likely your internship/co-op work permit. Check the information and remarks carefully. An internship/co-op work permit will indicate the employer is Royal Roads University.
If you have received only a study permit at the port of entry, you can apply for your co-op/internship permit separately within Canada.
Note: You can also apply for the co-op/internship work permit in the same application as a study permit extension. Please follow the study permit extension step-by-step guide. The information on this page is for students applying for a co-op work permit only.
The immigration information on this webpage is provided as a service to students and has been reviewed and endorsed by a Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor (RISIA) or a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) in compliance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations. This is not a legal document and information may change without notice. Please refer to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for the most updated information.
Applying for a co-op/internship work permit from inside Canada
When to apply? |
As early as possible and at least 6 months before the deadline to submit your internship contract to your Internship Advisor |
How to apply? |
You must apply online, unless you cannot due to a disability or a problem with the online application form If you are outside Canada and want to apply for a co-op/internship work permit, please visit IRCC website for more instructions |
Frequently Asked Questions |
My co-op permits say: |
Work hours |
Internship students: Eligible to work full time during internship under the internship/co-op work permit. Internship students may also work under their study permit: part time off-campus and/or full time on-campus on study permit. Internship ended or work that is not for an approved internship: Not eligible to work full time under the internship/co-op work permit even if it’s valid. Students can work part time off campus and/or full time on campus under their study permit if meeting the eligibility criteria. |
Processing time |
Processing times vary. Visit this IRCC page to check current processing times. |
Co-op/Internship permit fee |
Application fees vary. If required, you will pay fees online after you upload all the documents. You can find information on fees in the application guides. |
Application form and IRCC guide for in-Canada application |
IMM5710 - Application to change conditions, extend my stay or remain in Canada as a worker Guide 5580 - Applying for a Work Permit - Student Guide - online application |
Steps to submit the co-op/internship work permit online application
Contact an Immigration Advisor
Immigration Advisors are here to assist you with your internship/co-op work permit application.