Immigration
Working in Canada
Effective April 1, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) updated the requirements for co-op work permits. Eligible international students at post-secondary institutions are no longer required to obtain a separate co-op work permit to complete co-op terms, internships, or practicums. Eligible students may use the on-campus work authorization on their SFU study permit to participate in an SFU-approved work placement.
Work placements must still constitute no more than 50% of the total study program and be an essential component of the program. There is no limit on the number of hours students can work for their work placement. For additional details and eligibility requirements, please visit the IRCC – Work in a student work placement webpage.
What if my program does not include a work term?
Most undergraduate programs at SFU do not have a work term requirement. You can however apply for a co-op work term. Once accepted, you will receive a co-op confirmation letter confirming that the work term is a program requirement.
For graduate students, please check with your graduate program to confirm whether your program includes a co-op, internship or practicum and what you need to do next.