International Co-op Students

Co-op/Internship Work Permit Requirements

Effective April 1, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that international students who meet certain conditions no longer require a Co-op/Internship Work Permit to complete work required by their academic program (including work that is paid or unpaid, part-time or full-time, and on or off-campus).

To meet these conditions, you must:

  • Be a full-time student in a program that is a minimum of 6 months long and leads to a certificate, diploma, or degree;
  • Have a valid study permit or applied to extend your study permit before expiry;
  • Have a letter of acceptance confirming your program includes a work requirement and that the work does not form more than 50% of your study program; and
  • Have a condition on your study permit that says you may accept work on-campus.

Where You Can Work and Who You Can Work For

  • Where: Your work-integrated learning (WIL) can take place on-campus and/or off-campus.
  • Who: You can work for any employer that is approved by the Co-op & Career Centre.

Have Questions?

Connect with an IEC International Student Advisor if you require assistance.

Diplomatic Students
Diplomatic students should contact their Global Affairs representative to confirm whether a special work authorization is required. Those whose parents’ postings are ending, or who are turning 25, should also confirm whether they must apply for a study permit and/or work permit. Students are advised to do this 3–4 months in advance of any status change.

Status in Canada

Students who have recently become permanent residents or Canadian citizens must update the college accordingly. If your status in Canada has changed, please send supporting documentation to the Registrar’s Office here: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro/askus/ The Registrar’s Office will update the college system with your new status, and HireAC will be updated automatically within 24 hours.