Effective April 1, 2026, eligible post-secondary international students no longer need a separate Co-op/Internship work permit to participate in student work placements required by their program, such as co-op placements and internships.
Under this new policy, your study permit serves as your authorization for both your academic program and any required work placements. This change is designed to simplify the process, requiring only one permit for your entire program of study.
Key Requirements for Students:
Eligible Placements: You may work for employers approved by your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) as part of your program requirements and within specific dates as per RRU’s Co-op/internship contract.
Study Permit Conditions: Your study permit must include specific work authorization language, such as:
"May accept employment on or off campus if meeting eligibility criteria, per paragraph 186(f), (v) or (w) of the IRPR, and must cease working if no longer meeting these criteria."
Pending Applications: If you already have a co-op work permit application in progress, no action is required. IRCC will automatically withdraw all eligible, active applications.
For a full breakdown of the eligibility criteria, please visit the official IRCC website.
Liability Disclaimer:
The immigration information on this webpage has been reviewed by Royal Roads' licensed Immigration Team in good standing with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). Please note that this is not a legal document, and information may change at any time without notice. For the most updated information, please always refer to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.