International Students: Accessing Canadian Internships

International students can apply for internships in Canada, but they will need to apply for a work visa or permit. The type of visa required depends on the student's country of origin and the length of the internship. Students can apply for internships through their university or college, or through independent organisations. To be eligible for a co-op or internship work permit, international students must meet certain criteria, including being enrolled in an academic program that requires work experience as part of the curriculum.

Eligibility requirements for internships

International students can intern in Canada, but they need to apply for an internship work visa or a co-op work permit. The type of visa you need may vary depending on your country of origin and the length of your internship. You can apply for a co-op work permit at the same time as your study permit.

To be eligible for a co-op or internship work permit, you must meet the following criteria:

• You have a valid study permit.
• You are required to work to complete your study program in Canada.
• You have a letter from your Designated Learning Institute (DLI) or university confirming that all students in your course are required to complete work placements to get their degree.
• Your co-op placement or internship totals 50% or less of your study program.

If you are not eligible for a co-op work permit, you will need to apply for a regular work permit.

Visa applications and work permits

As an international student, you are eligible for internships or co-op placements in Canada if you are enrolled in an academic program that requires work experience as part of the curriculum. However, you will require a separate co-op or internship work permit to apply to these positions.

The type of permit you need depends on when the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) received your study permit application and if you meet certain other criteria. If you haven't already applied for your study permit, you can apply for your co-op work permit at the same time. Your acceptance letter from your designated learning institution must confirm that a co-op or internship placement is part of your program's curriculum. You can then apply for a study permit, and they will process your co-op work permit with your study permit application.

If you are applying from outside Canada, you cannot submit a co-op work permit application separately from your study permit application. If your study permit application is still being processed and you need a co-op work permit, you can submit a new letter of acceptance that shows you've been accepted into a program with a mandatory work component.

To be eligible for a co-op or internship work permit, you must meet the following criteria:

• You must have a valid study permit.
• You must be able to prove that the work experience for which you are obtaining the work permit is "essential to completing" your program of study.
• You must have a letter from your designated learning institution (DLI) or university confirming that all students in your program need to complete work placements to get their degree.
• Your co-op placement or internship must total 50% or less of your study program.

The visa you'll need may vary depending on your country of origin and the length of your internship. Your employer or program provider should be able to offer advice during this process. It is important to apply for an internship or job opportunity in Canada as soon as possible, as the work visa pertaining to internships in Canada is limited in terms of numbers.

How to find internships

International students can apply for internships in Canada, and there are several ways to find internship opportunities. Firstly, it's important to understand the eligibility requirements. To work as an intern in Canada, international students need a valid study permit and off-campus work authorisation. Additionally, they must be enrolled in a degree, diploma, or certificate program lasting at least six months and have a valid SIN number. These are the basic requirements to be eligible to work as an intern in Canada.

Once you have ensured you meet the eligibility criteria, you can start searching for internship opportunities. A good place to start is your university's career services department or a co-op coordinator, who can help you prepare for and find internship placements. They can provide information about potential employers and resources to help secure an internship. Many internship opportunities are located in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, with Toronto offering internships in almost every industry, including business, media, technology, and the performing arts. Vancouver is similar to US cities in the Pacific Northwest, both in lifestyle and industry. Montreal is ideal for French speakers, offering internships in film, engineering, and technology.

Another way to find internships is by applying through a program that matches you to a position. These internship programs have links to top employers across Canada and can assist with the visa process. The GO Internships board is also recommended for learning about new internship opportunities.

To increase your chances of securing an internship, it is beneficial to start looking early, approximately 3-5 months before your desired start date. Reach out to your school's career services, and don't be afraid to cold-call companies to inquire about internship opportunities. When applying, ensure your resume and cover letter are tailored to the internship and free of errors. It is also essential to research the company and prepare responses to common interview questions, showcase your interest in the position.

Application deadlines

Firstly, it is advisable to start your internship search early. Planning to look about 3-5 months before your desired start date can give you a head start and ensure you don't rush the application process. This also allows you to focus on crafting a strong application, including an error-free resume, a tailored cover letter, and gathering any necessary documents.

For international students, one crucial aspect to consider is the work permit. If you are an international student who isn't already in Canada on a valid student visa, you will need to apply for an internship work permit. The process and requirements for obtaining this permit should be carefully reviewed, as they can impact your application timeline.

Additionally, some internships may have specific deadlines for their applications, which are typically set by the employer or organisation. These deadlines can vary, so it is essential to check the specific requirements for each internship you are interested in. Some internships may have rolling applications, while others might have set deadlines for specific periods, such as summer internships.

It is worth noting that certain internships, such as those offered by embassies or specific government programs, may have their own unique deadlines and requirements. For example, the Foreign National Student Intern Program, offered by the U.S. Mission in Canada, has specific application requirements and deadlines that differ from other internships.

Lastly, keep in mind that application timelines can be influenced by factors such as the industry, employer preferences, and your own availability. It is always beneficial to stay organised, be mindful of any updates or changes to requirements, and submit your application well before the deadline to ensure a smooth process.

Interview preparation

International students can apply for internships in Canada, but they will need a proper internship work visa. This applies to both paid and unpaid internships. US citizens can also intern in Canada.

Now, here are some tips for interview preparation:

Research the company and role:

Take time to understand the company, its values, and the specific requirements of the role. Researching the company and role will help you identify whether your skills and experience align with what the interviewer is looking for. It will also help you prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer, demonstrating your interest and knowledge.

Review the job description:

Pay close attention to the keywords and industry language used in the job description. Incorporate these into your resume, cover letter, and interview responses to highlight how you are a good fit for the role. If there are any requirements or qualifications listed that you don't have, use your cover letter to explain how your experiences have equipped you with transferable skills.

Prepare your documents:

Ensure your resume and cover letter are up-to-date and tailored to the specific role. Include any relevant keywords and highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Develop a portfolio that includes examples of your previous work, and be prepared to elaborate on the points mentioned in your resume during the interview.

Practice your responses:

Plan and rehearse answers to potential interview questions. It is beneficial to memorize your training, skills, and experiences, and be ready to provide specific examples that showcase your qualifications for the role. You can also prepare questions for the interviewer, which demonstrates your interest and engagement.

Dress appropriately:

Make sure to dress in business formal attire—a well-fitted, clean, and pressed outfit. Canadian employers expect a neat and professional appearance, so pay attention to your choice of clothing, accessories, and shoes.

Arrive early:

Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the interview location. Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early to account for any potential delays or unexpected obstacles. Check traffic and weather conditions in advance, especially if using public transportation.

Be mindful of etiquette:

First impressions are important, so ensure you maintain eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and be mindful of your body language and personal space. During the interview, keep your cell phone turned off, and if you are invited to a lunch interview, avoid ordering expensive items or consuming alcohol.

Understand the culture:

Canadians value experience, hard work, and punctuality. Be prepared to discuss your previous work experiences and how they have equipped you for this role. Be on time for your interview, and respect the interviewer's time. Additionally, if you are interviewing in Quebec, it is helpful to have a basic understanding of French, as it is commonly used in business there.

Frequently asked questions