Working during your studies as a foreign student
Studying must be your main activity (full-time studies). However, you can work during your studies under certain conditions.
Working on campus
You can hold a job in an office or room located on the campus of your educational institution. For example, this includes:
- A library;
- A research establishment associated with your educational institution;
- A cafeteria.
For conditions, see the Government of Canada’s Work on campus page.
Working off campus as an intern
You can work outside your educational institution as part of a paid or unpaid internship. This internship must be compulsory as part of your Québec study program and must not account for more than 50% of the program’s duration.
You usually need to obtain a cooperative work permit from the Government of Canada.
For conditions, see the Government of Canada’s Work as a co-op student or intern page.
Working off campus
Under certain conditions, you can work outside your campus for the duration of your studies without a work permit.
For conditions, see the Government of Canada’s Work off campus as an international student page.
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Need more information for a specific case? Contact the Ministère.
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Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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Montréal and surrounding area: 514-864-9191
Elsewhere in Québec (toll-free): 1-877-864-9191
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Last update: April 28, 2026