Studying in Canada is exciting—but let’s be honest, it’s also expensive. Tuition fees, rent, groceries, transit… it adds up fast. That’s why most international students search for part-time jobs in Canada as soon as they land.
If you’ve checked the government website already, you probably felt overwhelmed. Too many rules. Too much legal language. Not enough real-life advice.
This guide fixes that.
In this 2025 updated, student-friendly guide, I’ll break down:
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The best part-time jobs in Canada for international students
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How many hours you can legally work
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Average pay rates
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Where to find these jobs fast
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Common mistakes that can risk your study permit
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Pro tips most students learn too late
Everything is explained in plain English, step by step—so you can save time and avoid costly errors.
Why Part-Time Jobs Matter for International Students in Canada
A part-time job in Canada isn’t just about money.
It helps you:
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Cover daily expenses
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Gain Canadian work experience
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Improve English or French
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Build local references
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Prepare for post-graduation work permits (PGWP) and PR pathways
In fact, many students who later apply for Canadian permanent residence start their journey with a simple part-time job.
Can International Students Work Part-Time in Canada in 2025?
Yes—but only if you meet specific conditions.
Basic Eligibility Rules (2025)
You can work part-time in Canada without a separate work permit if:
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You have a valid study permit
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You’re enrolled full-time at a DLI (Designated Learning Institution)
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Your program is academic, vocational, or professional
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Your study permit allows work (most do)
👉 Official source: Government of Canada – Work off campus as an international student
(Search this title on Canada.ca for the latest updates)
How Many Hours Can You Work?
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During academic sessions: up to 20 hours per week
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During scheduled breaks: up to 40 hours per week
⚠️ Working more than allowed can lead to:
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Study permit violation
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Future visa refusals
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PGWP rejection
Best Part-Time Jobs in Canada for International Students (2025)
Below are the most popular, legal, and student-friendly jobs, based on pay, flexibility, and availability.
1. On-Campus Jobs (Best for Beginners)
Average pay: CAD 15–22/hour
Hours: Flexible around class schedule
Popular On-Campus Roles
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Library assistant
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Research assistant
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Teaching assistant
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Campus bookstore staff
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IT help desk
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Student residence support
Why On-Campus Jobs Are Ideal
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No commuting
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Employers understand student schedules
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Lower risk of violating work rules
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Strong reference letters
Pro tip: Apply early. These jobs fill up fast—often before semester starts.
2. Retail Store Associate
Average pay: CAD 15–18/hour
Best for: Communication skills + flexible shifts
Common Retail Jobs
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Walmart
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Canadian Tire
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Costco
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Grocery stores
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Clothing brands
Retail jobs are perfect if:
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You want evening/weekend shifts
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You’re building customer service experience
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You want quick hiring
3. Food Service Jobs (High Demand Year-Round)
Average pay: CAD 15–20/hour (plus tips)
Examples
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Server
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Barista
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Fast-food crew
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Kitchen helper
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Dishwasher
Why students choose this:
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Easy entry-level hiring
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Tips can significantly boost income
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Lots of part-time shifts available
⚠️ Some provinces require food safety certification—check locally.
4. Delivery Driver (Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes)
Average earnings: CAD 18–25/hour (varies)
Requirements
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Valid driver’s license
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Vehicle or bike
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Smartphone
This job offers:
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Full flexibility
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Self-managed hours
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Higher earnings during peak times
Important: Make sure your work arrangement complies with student work rules.
5. Tutor or Academic Helper
Average pay: CAD 20–35/hour
Subjects in Demand
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Math
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Physics
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Programming
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English writing
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Accounting
You can tutor:
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On-campus
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Online
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Privately
Best for: High GPA students with strong subject knowledge.
6. Freelance & Online Jobs (2025 Trend)
Examples
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Content writing
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Graphic design
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Web development
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Social media management
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Virtual assistant
Pay range: CAD 20–40/hour
Freelancing is growing fast in Canada—but:
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Income must be declared
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Hours still count toward weekly limits
7. Warehouse & General Labour Jobs
Average pay: CAD 17–22/hour
Examples
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Amazon warehouse
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Packaging assistant
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Moving helper
Good for:
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Short-term cash
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Weekend shifts
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Students okay with physical work
Comparison Table: Best Part-Time Jobs for Students
| Job Type | Pay Range (CAD/hr) | Flexibility | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-campus | 15–22 | High | Low–Medium |
| Retail | 15–18 | Medium | Low |
| Food service | 15–20+tips | High | Low |
| Delivery | 18–25 | Very High | Medium |
| Tutoring | 20–35 | Medium | High |
| Freelance | 20–40 | High | High |
| Warehouse | 17–22 | Medium | Low |
Where to Find Part-Time Jobs in Canada
Best Job Search Platforms
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Indeed Canada
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Job Bank Canada (government site)
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LinkedIn Jobs
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Campus career portals
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Facebook student groups
Offline tip: Walk into stores with a resume—still works in Canada.
Common Mistakes International Students Must Avoid
❌ Working more than allowed hours
❌ Accepting cash-only jobs without records
❌ Ignoring tax obligations
❌ Not updating SIN details
❌ Working when not eligible (e.g., before program starts)
These mistakes can hurt:
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Study permit renewals
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PGWP applications
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PR chances
Pro Tips to Get Hired Faster in Canada
✔ Use a Canadian-style resume (1–2 pages)
✔ Apply early—September & January are peak seasons
✔ Be honest about availability
✔ Improve basic customer-service English
✔ Get a Social Insurance Number (SIN) immediately
Costs, Taxes & Take-Home Pay
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Minimum wage varies by province (CAD 15–17/hour in most places)
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Students must file annual tax returns
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Some taxes may be refunded later
Good news: Filing taxes builds your financial history in Canada.
Summary: Choosing the Right Part-Time Job in Canada
The best part-time jobs in Canada for international students in 2025 depend on:
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Your schedule
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Skills
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Location
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Long-term goals (PGWP, PR)
Start with on-campus or retail jobs. Move into higher-paying roles as you gain experience.
FAQs: Part-Time Jobs for International Students in Canada
1. Can international students work full-time in Canada?
Only during scheduled breaks like summer or winter holidays.
2. Do I need a work permit for part-time jobs?
No, if your study permit allows off-campus work.
3. What is the highest-paying student job in Canada?
Tutoring, freelancing, and delivery jobs often pay the most.
4. Can I work more than one part-time job?
Yes, as long as total hours stay within legal limits.
5. Will part-time work affect my PR chances?
No—legal Canadian work experience can actually help.
