Maintaining Work Permit Eligibility in Canada: When You Can Study Part-Time Legally
International students in Canada must typically maintain full-time enrollment to keep their study and work permit eligibility. However, there are certain situations where you can study part-time without losing your work permit status.
At Visa Master Canada, we help students understand these exceptions so they can remain compliant with immigration rules while pursuing their academic goals.
Why Full-Time Status Matters for Work Permit Eligibility
In most cases, being a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI) is a key requirement for maintaining your study and work permits. This status allows you to:
- Work up to the permitted number of hours during regular academic sessions.
- Remain eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing your studies.
But there are important exceptions where you can legally reduce your course load.
Maintaining Compliance While Studying Part-Time
Even when you qualify for part-time status:
- You must remain enrolled at a DLI.
- You must resume full-time studies as soon as possible, if applicable.
- Keep all documentation proving your eligibility in case IRCC requests it.
The experts at Visa Master Canada can guide you through the documentation process to ensure you stay compliant.
Situations Where Part-Time Status Is Allowed Without Losing Work Permit
| Scenario | Eligibility Details |
|---|---|
| Final Academic Term | If you’re in your last semester and only need part-time studies to complete your program, you remain eligible to work on and off campus. |
| Scheduled Breaks | Official school breaks (summer, winter holidays) allow full-time or part-time study without affecting work eligibility. |
| Authorized Leave | Short, authorized leave from studies (medical, family emergency) may be permitted if approved by your school. |
| Program Transition | Switching between programs at the same DLI, if done within the permitted time frame, keeps you in good standing. |
Understanding these scenarios is critical to maintaining your eligibility.
Maintaining Compliance While Studying Part-Time
Even when you qualify for part-time status:
- You must remain enrolled at a DLI.
- You must resume full-time studies as soon as possible, if applicable.
- Keep all documentation proving your eligibility in case IRCC requests it.
The experts at Visa Master Canada can guide you through the documentation process to ensure you stay compliant.
Impact on Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Your part-time status during permitted situations will not affect your PGWP eligibility if:
- It’s your final semester.
- You maintained full-time status in all previous academic terms.
We at Visa Master Canada help students plan their study schedules strategically to protect their work permit and PGWP options.
Why Choose Visa Master Canada
Canada’s immigration and study regulations can be complex. Visa Master Canada offers:
- Personalized consultations for international students.
- Step-by-step guidance on work permits and PGWP eligibility.
- Expert advice on maintaining compliance with IRCC regulations.
While full-time status is generally required to maintain your work permit eligibility, there are specific, IRCC-approved exceptions. Knowing these can save you from losing your work rights or PGWP eligibility.
Stay informed and secure your future with expert help from Visa Master Canada.
