Here are the permits you’ll need to study at Capilano University, including if you plan to work while you’re a student in Canada.
Study permits and visas
All international students studying in Canada need a Study Permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
To fulfill the conditions of your permit and to be able to work off-campus, you’ll need to be a full-time student. At CapU, this means nine (9) academic credits.
If you already have a study permit, be sure it extends throughout your CapU study period. Learn more about extending study permits on the IRCC site.
International students from certain countries may also need to have a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Learn more about TRV or eTA from the IRCC.
Extending your stay
If you need to change the conditions of your study permit or extend your stay in Canada as a student, you must apply to the IRCC.
Working in Canada
International students who hold a valid study permit may work off-campus while taking classes at Capilano University. Learn more about the rules for working off-campus from the IRCC.
Capilano University's Career Development Centre can help you look for a job while in Canada.
Work as a co-op, practicum or intern student
If you’re studying in a program that has a mandatory co-op or internship practicum, you need to obtain a co-op work permit.
If you have not arrived in Canada yet, you will also need to apply for a co-op work permit alongside your study permit.
If you are already physically in Canada and do not have a co-op work permit, please contact your program department to obtain a support letter for your co-op work permit application.
*Note: There is a temporary policy change for Co-op work permits and off-campus work authorization from November 15, 2022, to December 31, 2023. Please learn more about the temporary measure from the IRCC.
Working off campus while taking EAP courses
If you are taking English for Academic Purposes (EAP) 100/101 and you’d like to work off-campus, you must also be taking at least one academic course at the same time to be eligible.
If you are taking EAP 070, 080, or 090 or only EAP courses, you are not eligible to work off campus.
For more information, see Study permits: Off-campus work on the CIC website.
Working after graduation
If you want to work in Canada after graduating from CapU, you’ll need to obtain a post-graduation work permit.
To be eligible for a PGWP, you must:
- Have studied full-time for a minimum of eight months preceding the completion of your program;
- Apply for a work permit within 180 days of receiving written confirmation from CapU that you have met the requirements of your program;
- Have completed and passed your program of study and received written notification that you are eligible to obtain your degree, diploma, or certificate. (Please note: You need to request an academic transcript and a PGWP letter that confirms that you are eligible to graduate from the Registrar’s Office. The Registrar will not issue this letter until you have applied to graduate.); and
- Have a valid study permit or visitor's visa when applying for the work permit.